Tesla Model Y 2025: New face and tweaks for EV in Juniper refresh

Pricier upgrade includes more speed and better suspension

Tesla has unveiled the latest version of the Model Y crossover on the company's China consumer site, revealing some design tweaks and a series of upgraded features. All photos: Tesla

Code-named 'the Juniper refresh', the upgrade includes a number of changes inside and outside

Looks-wise, the new Y noticeably has a new nose and narrower headlights

It has also been fitted with light bars at the front and rear, mirroring the stylings of the Cybertruck

The range has been upped to 719km from 688km

An ambient lighting strip runs throughout the cabin and passengers in the rear now get their own screen

The car also has a superior suspension

The price of the car is between $36,000 and $41,500

Tesla unveiled the latest version of the Model Y crossover on Friday, revealing some design tweaks and a series of upgraded features.

There was much anticipation ahead of the launch on its Chinese consumer site, which was code-named “the Juniper refresh”. It is the manufacturer’s bestselling vehicle and, arguably, the most popular EV in the world.

Looks-wise, the Y has a noticeably new nose with narrower headlights. It has also been fitted with light bars at the front and rear, mirroring the stylings of the Cybertruck, and the range has been upped to 719km from 688km. Tesla says the car also has a new suspension, resulting in a superior ride.

Inside, the Y has been kitted out with an ambient lighting strip running throughout the cabin and passengers in the rear now get their own screen with climate control panels and gaming and viewing functions.

The price of the car is a little higher than the previous model, with the new arrival costing between $36,000 and $41,500.

The choice of China as the launch pad for the new Y was no accident – Tesla has been facing tough competition from manufacturers in the region, notably BYD, which is currently the country’s largest seller of EVs.

Another rival comes in the shape of consumer electronics manufacturer Xiaomi, which made a significant impact in 2023 with the launch of its SU7 sedan.

Competitors aside, business analysts cite China as a key market for Tesla in its own right. Deliveries of the Y for China will begin in March, subject to regional approval.

There are no details yet about when the Y will officially launch in the UAE, or the Middle East as a whole, but commentators are hoping, based on previous experiences, that the vehicle will be here before the end of the year.

Rumours remain rife that Tesla will be launching a six-seat version of the Y later in the year.