Tesla has revealed its updated mid-size best-selling SUV, with the 2025 Model Y boasting a bold new design, improved features, and a slightly higher price tag. Australian deliveries are slated to begin in May 2025.
Pricing and Variants
The refreshed Model Y will initially launch in Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variants, both as part of the exclusive Launch Series. However, the updates come with a price bump. There’s no word yet on a new Model Y Performance model, but expect it to follow in the coming year, much like the hotter Model 3 Performance did behind its slower siblings.
- The RWD starts at $63,400 before on-road costs, up $7500 from the previous model.
- The Long Range AWD now costs $73,400, an increase of $3500.
Improved Range and Performance
While prices have risen, so has the range:
- The RWD variant now offers 466 km (WLTP cycle), up by 11 km.
- The Long Range AWD climbs to 551 km, an 18 km improvement.
Tesla continues to keep power and torque figures under wraps but confirms quicker acceleration times:
- RWD: 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds (1.0-second improvement).
- Long Range AWD: 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds (0.7-second improvement).
Launch Series models include the Acceleration Boost software upgrade as standard, previously an optional extra.
Exterior Updates
The 2025 Model Y gets a futuristic facelift inspired by the Cybertruck and the new Robotaxi. Up front, a new light bar spans the width of the car, complemented by separate lighting assemblies below, to give a sharper, more angular look. At the rear, a chunky full-width light bar debuts, offering a unique aesthetic not seen on other Tesla models. Overall, the design changes are very welcome to car that looked very much like a blob.
Enhanced Ride and Handling
Tesla has also refined the Model Y’s driving dynamics with retuned suspension promises better comfort, as well as improved road holding. smoother handling. Updated 20-inch alloy wheels and tires contribute to a quieter ride with improved grip.
Redesigned body castings have reduced the number of components, further decreasing road noise and improving fit and finish. It’s likely that Tesla is now using its front Gigacasting in the Model Y, meaning that the entire front-end structure is made from a super strong and stiff aluminium piece, negating the need for 70 pieces of metal and hundreds of spot welds.
Interior Upgrades
Inside, the Model Y introduces a host of new features such as ventilated front seats and ambient lighting to enhance comfort, while the interior has been refreshed to keep it in line with the modern feel we have to come to expect from Tesla. Out goes the woodgrain and in come polished, quality surfaces.
The gear selector has moved to the touchscreen, replacing the traditional column-mounted shifter. The central touchscreen grows to 15.4 inches, while rear passengers gain an 8.0-inch display and power-reclining seats. Tesla has worked hard to improve the quality of the sound system too, with higher fidelity audio on all models.
Launch Series models include exclusive touches like unique badging, black suede dashboard trim, and special puddle lights.
Colour Options
A refreshed colour palette now includes Glacier Blue, alongside Pearl White, Stealth Grey, Quicksilver, and Ultra Red. Notably, black is no longer available.
With these updates, Tesla looks to maintain the Model Y’s status as Australia’s best-selling EV and a global frontrunner. Stay tuned to DiscoverAuto for the latest automotive news and reviews.
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