The Tesla Model Y is one of the most popular cars in the U.S., and it’s the top choice when it comes to electric vehicles. Earlier this year, the Tesla Model 3 received a significant refresh with a new design and some additional features. Now, it appears that the Model Y might be getting a similar update. The revamped Model Y, code-named “Juniper,” is apparently being tested by Tesla, as a covered-up version was recently spotted in California.
Curious about what’s in store for the new Tesla Model Y once the refresh becomes official? Based on rumors and information from Tesla, here’s what we know so far.
Tesla probably won’t drastically alter the design of the Model Y. However, if they follow the same approach they took with the Model 3, the Model Y will receive some design tweaks to make it look a bit more modern. We’re expecting slimmer, slanted headlights and slightly reshaped front and rear bumpers. Additionally, there might be a change to the logo on the back of the car, replacing the Tesla emblem with spelled-out Tesla letters. These are minor adjustments, but the design changes on the Model 3 were positively received, giving it a sleeker, sportier look.
Inside the car, we’re anticipating some changes as well. One of the biggest updates to the Model 3’s interior was an infotainment display for backseat passengers, allowing them to control the climate and access apps like Netflix and music controls. This feature will likely make its way to the Model Y too. Also, in the Model 3 refresh, Tesla replaced the turn signal stalks behind the steering wheel with buttons on the steering wheel itself, a move that sparked some debate.
Other interior updates included new accent lighting and more supportive seats, changes which are also expected for the Model Y.
The Tesla Model Y might also get smarter. The predictive shifting tech from the Model S, which was introduced in the Model 3 refresh, is likely to be included. This technology tries to predict whether the driver wants to drive forward or reverse when they sit in the car and close the door. Drivers can override this prediction using an on-screen gear selector or a physical gear selector near the hazard lights.
In addition to this predictive tech, the new Model Y will likely come with ventilated seating and an improved sound system that adds another subwoofer for better bass response. We are also anticipating a similar range of Model Y versions — a standard range, a long-range, and a performance version.
A major reason the Tesla Model Y is so popular is its relatively affordable price compared to other electric cars. It’s likely that the refreshed version will be similarly priced to the previous model, although Tesla did slightly increase the price of the Model 3 when it released the Highland refresh. As of now, the Tesla Model Y starts at $44,990, and we are hopeful that the refreshed version will stay under the $45,000 mark.
The Tesla Model Y refresh will bring notable upgrades to the most popular EV. Some changes may be controversial, like the removal of turn signal stalks leading to a more minimalistic look. However, overall, these updates should result in a better Model Y.
It’s still unclear when the new Model Y will be released. Once the Model 3 refresh was announced, it was expected that similar updates would come to the Model Y. However, just because Tesla is testing a new Model Y doesn’t mean it will be available soon. With any luck, the new Model Y will be released by the end of the year and will be available in all markets where the Model Y is currently sold.