The hugely popular Tesla Model Y SUV has been updated for 2025 with tweaked styling, more tech and a longer driving range. On sale now from just under £61k, it’s initially available in Launch Series Long-Range All-Wheel Drive form; first UK deliveries are due to take place in March.
First launched in 2020, the Tesla Model Y has gone on to become one of the UK’s – indeed the world’s – bestselling cars. Now, it’s been given a mid-life update under the codename Juniper to keep things fresh among fierce competition from rivals such as the Audi Q4 E-Tron, Mercedes-Benz EQA, BMW iX1 and Kia EV6.
What’s new with the Model Y?
Starting with the exterior, Tesla has gone for a simplified approach with a smoother, flatter front end (that’s also now lower to aid aerodynamics) and much slimmer headlights. There’s also a light bar that runs the width of the bonnet while the Tesla badge on the front has been removed.
New wheels also debut – 19-inch Aero or 20-inch Helix designs – while two paint colours – Solid Black or Quicksilver – are available from launch. Around the back, the bodywork is smoother and less cluttered, and the number plate has been moved further down. The reflection from another light bar illuminates the Tesla script.
What’s it like inside?
Climb inside and you’ll recognise much of the interior design from the latest Model 3. There are a few different materials and wraparound ambient lighting, but it’s largely the same. Key differences include a higher driving position owing to the SUV bodystyle, and physical indicator stalks instead of wheel-mounted buttons as found in the Model 3 – hooray!
Those in the back are treated to an 8.0-inch touchscreen that can display videos, games and adjust the climate control (the Model Y gets heated and cooled seats in the front and rear), plus there’s Bluetooth compatibility. That means the kids can watch a cartoon in the rear, while you enjoy a civilised podcast up front.
Boot space is, curiously, 20 litres smaller than before at up to 2,138 litres, which Tesla says is due to changes to the design. But electric folding rear seats help to make up for it from a flexibility point of view.
Tesla Model Y driving range and charging
Tesla claims there are no changes to the powertrain, however range has improved from 331 to 353 miles owing to the car’s aerodynamic improvements. Charging speeds of up to 250kw are possible, while 0-62mph takes as little as 4.3 seconds. Cabin noise levels are said to have been reduced by around 20%, while wifi range for over-the-air updates has increased by 200%.
What this means for you
The Tesla Model Y’s popularity is only likely to increase with this latest update. If you were considering buying the original model brand-new, we’d seriously consider holding off to make sure you get your hands on the latest variant.
However, with the arrival of the new car, you may find some tempting deals on the original Model Y. Since the changes are all fairly minor, it may be worth saving the cash and getting yourself a bargain for what is an already accomplished electric family car. You’ll still have huge amounts of space, access to the Tesla Supercharger network and impressive EV range and performance.
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James Dennison is the Head of Video for Parkers.co.uk. Having joined in 2016 as a Junior Staff Writer, he’s seen all aspects of the Parkers brand and, while now spending most of his time spearheading its video operation, still enjoys helping car buyers make the best decision when it comes to getting a new set of wheels.
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