Tesla Model Y Juniper Caught With Split Headlights And Rear Light Bar

Camouflaged prototypes of the updated Model Y have been spotted all over the world.
The Tesla Model Y Juniper will feature exterior, interior, and mechanical upgrades.
Chinese media report that production of the updated EV will start in Shanghai this month.

The Tesla Model Y is preparing for what may be its most notable refresh since its 2019 debut. While the core design remains largely unchanged, this update—codenamed Project Juniper—promises to introduce just enough new features and tweaks to help the world’s best-selling EV stay ahead of the competition and maintain its global dominance.

More: Everything We Know About The Tesla Model Y Juniper

Over the past month, numerous camouflaged prototypes of the refreshed Model Y, which will likely be marketed as a 2026MY, have been spotted in the United States, Europe, and Asia, adding fuel to rumors that production of the updated version could begin soon, starting in China. These sightings have offered glimpses of what Tesla has been working on to further refine its already popular SUV.

What’s New on the Outside?

The updated Model Y Juniper appears to take a page from the playbook of the Model 3 “Highland,” with a refreshed design that’s playing it safe. Judging by the camo-covered test cars, Tesla’s engineers have zeroed in on tweaking the front and rear ends while leaving the middle section untouched.

Fresh spy shots from Europe at the start of the new year offer the clearest look yet at the Model Y’s updated front end, showcasing split LED headlights and a more streamlined bumper design. A similar look was spotted on test vehicles in recent spy videos from California, hinting that the Model Y might embrace a distinctive aesthetic, setting it apart from the sharper, more minimalist design of its closely related sedan counterpart.

Tesla Model Y Juniper Caught With Split Headlights And Rear Light Bar

Baldauf

That said, these are still test vehicles, so it’s possible that some elements—like the split headlamp design—may not make it to production. Tesla has experimented with multiple front-end designs over the past year, with some prototypes featuring the split headlights and others without, so there’s still some mystery around the final look.

At the rear, heavy camouflage obscures much of the design, but slimmer taillights and fresh LED graphics are visible. A recent video posted by X (formerly Twitter) user Suppakit Phonorthong also shows a full-width lightbar stretching across the rear end, which aligns with earlier spy shots of a frosted-finish LED taillight bar. If this makes it to production, it could be one of the most noticeable design upgrades.

🧐🧐🤔🤔 @klwtts @SawyerMerritt pic.twitter.com/bZWV7rn3FA
— Suppakit Phonorthong (@suppalatte) December 29, 2024

New Longer Six-Seater Variant for China

Tesla plans to introduce two versions of the refreshed Model Y. The standard five-seater model will remain available, along with an optional third-row configuration for two additional passengers. But specifically for the Chinese market, Tesla is reportedly working on a longer-wheelbase six-seater version, scheduled to debut in the fourth quarter of 2025. This version will cater to the market’s demand for more spacious family-oriented vehicles.

Interior Updates

Inside, the updated Model Y is expected to embrace an even more minimalist design by eliminating traditional wiper and turn signal stalks, along with the gear shifter. These controls will likely be replaced by touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel and the central touchscreen, just like the Model 3 ‘Highland’ facelift.

On the bright side, Tesla is introducing new features aimed at enhancing both comfort and functionality. The refreshed Model Y will feature a redesigned (and less toyish-looking) steering wheel, slimmer infotainment screen bezels, more supportive front seats with a cooling function, multi-color ambient lighting, and a new rear-seat touchscreen—similar to what we’ve seen in the Model 3 facelift.

Read: Tesla Exec Confirms $30K Model Q For 2025, Deutsche Bank Report Claims

More importantly, the EV will benefit from higher-quality materials inside the cabin and improved NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness), thanks to chassis and suspension upgrades. These enhancements will likely be accompanied by onboard technology updates as well.

What About Performance?

Mechanically, the Model Y’s battery and powertrain options are expected to carry over from the current version. However, Tesla might introduce a more powerful Model Y Performance variant with specifications similar to the updated Model 3 Performance, which would appeal to customers looking for more speed and excitement in their electric SUV.

Other carryover options will likely include the standard and long-range versions, available in either RWD or AWD dual-motor configurations.

🧐🧐🤔🤔 @klwtts @SawyerMerritt pic.twitter.com/bZWV7rn3FA
— Suppakit Phonorthong (@suppalatte) December 29, 2024

When Will It Be Available?

According to reports from Chinese media, including Sina, series production of the refreshed Model Y “Juniper” is set to begin this month at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. This timeline aligns with Elon Musk’s earlier statement that the updated Model Y would not launch before the end of 2024.

More: New Tesla Models Crippled By AP4 Computer Failures, Breaking Essential Features

In fact, some sources suggest that Tesla has already produced early prototypes in Shanghai as part of its preparations for full-scale production.

Should You Wait or Buy Now?

In the lead-up to the updated model’s release, Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in China by an additional ¥10,000 ($1,370), dropping it to its lowest price ever. The move seems to be paying off: between January and November 2024, the Model Y was China’s best-selling vehicle, with 373,000 units sold, accounting for 73% of Tesla’s sales in the region.

For U.S. buyers, the decision to wait for the updated Model Y or purchase the current version comes down to timing and incentives. Buying now secures the $7,500 federal tax credit, which could disappear under the next administration’s policies. However, the upcoming refresh promises meaningful upgrades, so waiting might be worth it for those who value the latest features and designs.