• All-new acoustic glass promises to reduce cabin noise of the Model Y by as much as 20%.
  • Jay Leno spoke about the new Tesla with the brand’s design and engineering bosses.
  • US deliveries of the Model Y Launch Series will start in March, with more trims to follow.

The heavily updated Tesla Model Y is a crucial vehicle for the leading electric automaker. The original Model Y didn’t just dominate the EV market, it became the best-selling vehicle worldwide, regardless of powertrain, in 2023. That title is expected to carry over into 2024 (pending final numbers), and with a series of key upgrades, the new version aims to cement its position at the top. Safe to say, a few legacy automakers are watching nervously.

Read: At $59,990, New Tesla Model Y Juniper Launch Series Is $4K Cheaper Than The Old One

Since Tesla unveiled the refreshed Model Y online last month, details about the updates have been trickling out. The company has now released a video highlighting key improvements to the ‘Juniper’ update, which appears to be marketed as a 2026MY in North America rather than a 2025 model. Tesla also handed the car over to Jay Leno for a test drive through Los Angeles. This marks the first time Western media has had the opportunity to experience the new Model Y in motion, as previous coverage was limited to static presentations

More Than a Model 3 Lookalike

According to Tesla’s chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, the new Model Y has been given more of its own identity. While the outgoing version closely resembled an upsized pre-facelift Model 3, the latest update introduces several unique design elements. Notably, it adopts a Cybertruck-inspired LED light bar up front, and the taillights and tailgate have been completely redesigned, now incorporating a full-width light strip.

Tesla also claims that new acoustic glass significantly reduces cabin noise by as much as 20% compared to the previous model. The roof features an improved Low-E (low-emissivity) glass with micro deposits of silver, which helps block 25–30% more heat from entering the cabin. Other interior refinements include an upgraded audio system with up to 16 speakers in higher trims, plus separate Bluetooth connections for the front and rear screens.

Smoother Ride, Smarter Features

Ride quality has been another focus for Tesla engineers, with a new suspension system designed to improve comfort and handling. Practicality has also been enhanced: the trunk opening is slightly larger, and a new drain plug in the frunk allows it to be used as an ice-filled cooler. Tesla is even developing a range of accessories tailored for the frunk’s expanded functionality.

Technology upgrades include Autopilot 4.0 as standard, featuring a more powerful onboard computer and improved exterior cameras. Meanwhile, Tesla has also backtracked on one controversial design decision, as the new Model Y retains a traditional turn signal stalk, unlike the button-based system in the latest Model 3. According to Tesla, it listened to feedback from its owners and decided a stalk was better than signal buttons on the steering wheel. Leno, a longtime Tesla owner, seemed particularly pleased about that.

More Variants Coming Soon

Both Franz von Holzhausen and vice president of vehicle engineering at Tesla, Lars Moravy joined Jay Leno to talk through the updated Model Y. Leno has owned plenty of Teslas over the years and seems quite impressed with many of the changes made.

During the video, Tesla executives confirmed that the updated Model Y lineup will expand over time. “We’re starting with the Launch edition. All the other variants—the Dual-Motor base edition, Rear-Wheel Drive, Performance, seven-seater options—those will come later in the year,” said Moravy.