2025 Tesla Model Y Debuts With Cybercab Looks And Turn Signal Stalks

The wait is finally over as Tesla has officially unveiled the redesigned Model Y “Juniper”. The world’s best-selling EV benefits from a host of upgrades, including refreshed styling and a more refined interior packed with technology. The improvements go beyond aesthetics, as the 2025 Model Y is quicker, quieter, and smoother, while boasting an extended range compared to its predecessor.

Styling-wise, the highlight of the facelifted model is the redesigned nose, featuring split headlights and a full-width LED bar inspired by the Cybercab. The bumper is similar to the Model 3 Highland but features slim intakes on the sides. Just like the Cybercab and Cybertruck, the Model Y doesn’t have a Tesla emblem on the hood.

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At the back, the dark-finished full-width lighting unit continues the sci-fi theme, introducing Tesla’s first “indirect reflective body panel taillight”. There is also a cleaner design for the tailgate that reaches lower on the rear bumper, where it is joined by a larger diffuser.

While Tesla claims that the exterior is “completely redesigned”, the profile appears to be largely carried over, setting aside the new front fenders and small changes on the sensors. The overall length has been increased by 41 mm (1.6 inches) to 4,792 mm (188.7 inches). Furthermore, the EV rides on a new set of 20-inch Helix 2.0 wheels, while some markets also get the aero-friendly 19-inch Crossflow wheels finished in black.

There’s also a new lighter shade of blue called ‘Glacier Blue’ that replaces the darker ‘Deep Blue’ metallic, at least in the launch markets.

Refined Interior

Moving inside, Tesla has retained the familiar minimalist design of the cabin, while introducing numerous improvements. The infotainment display is slightly larger at 15.4 inches (up from 15 inches), while there is an extra 8-inch touchscreen for the rear passengers. The new seat design and upholstery is said to provide greater comfort and support, adding a ventilated function at the front and a power reclining rear bench that can fold flat.

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The dashboard, center console, and door cards have also been redesigned, with a new strip of ambient lighting, soft-touch finishes, and vegan suede inserts for the Launch Series. Unlike the Model 3 Highland, the steering wheel of the Model Y Juniper retains a traditional indicator stalk, although the gear selection has been integrated into the central display. Finally, there is a new audio system with hidden speakers which are said to provide better sound quality.

A Smoother Ride With Smarter Tech

Tesla claims the new Model Y is quieter and more refined than ever thanks to the aerodynamic tweaks, new acoustic glass, retuned suspension, and noise-optimized tires. The revised chassis setup also includes a more responsive steering. Of course, the EV benefits from the latest version of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving capability, which remains available as an option.

Quicker And More Efficient

The 2025 Model Y will be initially available in two trims – the entry-level RWD and the Long Range AWD. Tesla hasn’t announced their battery capacity, but the WLTP range is estimated at 466 km (290 miles) and 551 km (342 miles) respectively. These figures are 11 km (7 miles) and 18 km (11 miles) more compared to the equivalent versions of the outgoing model, an increase that could be attributed to the improved aerodynamics. The maximum charging speed remains unchanged at 250 kW, adding up to 266 km (165 miles) in 15 minutes when plugged into a fast charger.

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While we don’t have information on the output of the electric motors, both trims are slightly quicker than before. The RWD trim now sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.9 seconds, shaving a full second off its predecessor’s time. Meanwhile, the special Long Range AWD ‘Launch Edition’ comes equipped with the “Acceleration Boost” as standard, achieving the same sprint in just 4.3 seconds—a slight improvement of 0.1 seconds. For context, the previous Model Y AWD managed 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds without the boost and 4.4 seconds with it. In both cases, the top speed is electronically limited at 201 km/h (125 miles), which is slower than before.

A more powerful and faster Model Y Performance trim is anticipated to debut in the coming months, featuring the same 510 hp (North American spec) dual-motor setup as the revised Model 3 Performance. This version is expected to include highlights such as Adaptive Damping, Track Mode V3, and a more aggressive body kit, mirroring the upgrades seen on its sedan counterpart.

Pricing And Availability

The updated Model Y has appeared on Tesla websites from various Asia-Pacific regions, with deliveries slated to begin in April or May depending on the market.

In Australia, the RWD trim is priced at AU$ 63,400 (US$ 39,300), while the Long Range AWD costs AU$ 73,400 (US$ 45,500), marking increases of AU$ 7,500 (US$ 4,600) and AU$ 3,500 (US$ 2,200) respectively compared to the pre-facelifted versions.

US pricing and availability is expected to be announced shortly.