Something to look forward to: Tesla announced a new-look SUV, codenamed ‘Juniper,’ earlier this month. It is a revamped Model Y that was initially only confirmed for the Chinese and select Asian markets. However, it now appears the vehicle will hit North American and European sectors later this year.
The long-range all-wheel drive variant of the new Model Y has a starting price of $59,990, a whopping 25 percent higher than the $47,990 asking price of the existing model with equivalent trim. However, for the additional money, the new model will include Tesla’s supervised full self-driving software, an $8,000 optional extra in the current-generation Model Y.
The new special edition ‘Launch Series’ variant has a 320-mile range, slightly higher than the current Long Range AWD version, which can go 311 miles on a charge. Tesla claims the new car can add 154 miles of range in just 15 minutes of DC fast charging. It is also significantly quicker than the outgoing model, reaching 0-60 miles per hour in just 4.1 seconds. For reference, the current model does 0-60 in 4.8 seconds.
Meet the new Model Y
Maximum efficiency. Smoother rides. All-new interior.
New on the outside:
– Redesigned exterior with improved aerodynamics to unlock better range, performance & longevity– Updated wheels, tires & brakes + retuned suspension for a smoother ride
Our… pic.twitter.com/Fk40KzvP8m
– Tesla (@Tesla) January 24, 2025
Tesla posted to X that the new Model Y will offer “maximum efficiency” and “smother rides” compared to its predecessor. It has a redesigned exterior with improved aerodynamics that the company claims will improve range, performance, and longevity. The car also includes upgraded wheels, tires, and brakes, while a newly tweaked suspension offers a smoother ride.
The new Model Y’s interior features ambient lighting, ventilated front-row seats, power-folding second-row seats, and a Bluetooth-compatible 8-inch touchscreen for second-row passengers. Other improvements include “invisible speakers” for a minimalist aesthetic and faster cellular + WiFi connectivity. Tesla also notes that the Model Y will offer a “whisper-quiet” ride thanks to acoustic glass, redesigned body castings, and other improvements.
Tesla will start shipping the new Model Y in March across most markets, including the US, countering an earlier announcement that implied the vehicle would only be available in China and other Asian countries. The simultaneous global launch marks a notable change in Tesla’s strategy, which has traditionally launched its cars in North America several months after rolling them out in China.
