How Much Does a Tesla Cost? The Price and Advantages of Each Model

By Lennon Cihak
Tesla offers a variety of models and prices, ranging from the Model 3, all the way up to the Model X Plaid.
Tesla offers a variety of models and prices, ranging from the Model 3, all the way up to the Model X Plaid.
Tesla

With gas prices soaring and EVs becoming more affordable than ever, it could not be a better time to purchase an electric vehicle. Tesla is leading that charge in terms of performance, technology and affordability.

The Austin, Texas-based automotive company has built a strong product that sells itself and recently became the most popular car worldwide. Tesla currently produces five different models, including the Model S, Model 3, Model X, the Model Y, and the Tesla Semi. The Tesla Cybertruck will join the mix later this year, and the new Roadster is expected to begin production next year.

The cost of a Tesla will range from $40,000 to almost $140,000, depending on the model and options. But before we get into the actual upfront and ownership costs, it’s helpful to understand Tesla’s mission: Accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.

Tesla’s Mission and Master Plan

On August 2nd, 2006, co-founder and CEO Elon Musk published a blog post outlining Tesla’s master plan. It was simple:

  • Build a sports car (Tesla’s first-gen Roadster)
  • Use that money to build an affordable car (Model S, and later Model X)
  • Use that money to build an even more affordable car (Model 3 and Model Y)
  • While doing the above, also provide zero emission electric power generation options (Solar Roof, Solar Panels, Supercharging, Powerwall, Megapacks)

Tesla is now working toward their Master Plan Part 3.

What is The Cheapest Tesla Model?

The price for a Tesla ranges greatly depending on the model and upgrades you add. At the time of this article’s publishing, the Model 3, which comes in at $40,240 (before taxes and incentives) is the most affordable.

In June 2023, Tesla announced that all Model 3 variants in the United States are eligible for the $7,500 tax credit. This was due to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which expanded certain EVs to receive a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. 

In addition to Federal tax incentives, many states offer additional incentives to EV owners.

Model 3

The Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3
Tesla

The Tesla Model 3, introduced in 2017, revolutionized the electric vehicle market by making cutting-edge technology and sustainable transportation more accessible to the masses. As Tesla's entry-level sedan, the Model 3 combines sleek design with impressive performance and an exceptional range of up to 333 miles, making it a compelling choice for those who prefer a smaller, nimble vehicle. 

With seating for five passengers and a spacious interior, the Model 3 provides comfort without compromising on style. Its minimalist yet futuristic interior features Tesla's signature touchscreen infotainment system and a host of advanced driver-assistance features, including Autopilot. The Model 3's affordability, eco-friendly credentials, and thrilling driving experience propelled it to become one of the best-selling electric cars worldwide, showcasing Tesla's commitment to accelerating the global shift towards sustainable and emission-free transportation.

Model 3 Standard Range

  • Price: $40,240
  • Range: 272 miles
  • Weight: 3,862 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 5.8 sec
  • Top Speed: 140 mph

Model 3 AWD (All-Wheel Drive)

  • Price: $47,240
  • Range: 315 - 333 miles
  • Weight: 4,034 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 4.2 sec
  • Top Speed: 145 mph

Model 3 Performance

  • Price: $51,640
  • Range: 315 miles
  • Weight: 4,048 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.1 sec
  • Top Speed: 162 mph

The Model 3 Performance also comes with the Performance Upgrade package: 

  • Increased top speed from 135mph to 155mph
  • 21’’ Überturbine Wheels
  • Performance Brakes
  • Lowered suspension
  • Aluminum alloy pedals
  • Carbon fiber spoiler

Model Y

The Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y
Tesla

The Tesla Model Y, introduced in 2020, represents a compelling addition to Tesla's lineup of electric vehicles. As a compact all-electric SUV, the Model Y combines the best of the Model 3 sedan's platform with the versatility and practicality of their higher-end Model X. Offering seating for up to seven passengers and a spacious cargo area, the Model Y is designed to accommodate families and adventure-seekers alike.

With its sleek and modern design, the Model Y exudes an air of sophistication while boasting impressive performance capabilities, including rapid acceleration and an impressive electric driving range of up to 330 miles on a single charge. Tesla's commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident in the Model Y, with features such as the expansive touchscreen infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance features like Autopilot. As an integral part of Tesla's mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy, the Model Y represents a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile, affordable, and high-performance electric SUV.

Model Y Standard Range

  • Price: $47,740
  • Range: 279 miles
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 5 sec
  • Top Speed: 135 mph

Model Y Long Range

  • Price: $50,490
  • Range: 330 miles
  • Weight: 4,386 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 4.8 sec
  • Top Speed: 135 mph

Model Y Performance

  • Price: $54,490
  • Range: 303 miles
  • Weight: 4,439 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.5 sec
  • Top Speed: 155 mph

Who is Model Y For?

Tesla's Model Y is designed for families, practicality seekers, urban dwellers, commuters, crossover enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts, environmentally conscious consumers, and those seeking a blend of luxury and performance. It offers the practicality of a compact SUV, advanced technology, electric drivetrain benefits, and a versatile driving experience to meet the diverse needs and preferences of a wide range of consumers.

Model Y is one of the best-selling vehicles in the world. The price comes in a couple thousand more than Model 3. Model Y comes with more front and rear headroom, legroom, an optional third row, and 34.3-cubic-foot in cargo space.

What is The Most Expensive Tesla Model?

The most expensive vehicle Tesla makes is its 2.7-ton SUV, the Model X. Model X Plaid with Ultra Red paint and 22-inch turbine wheels, among other additions and customizations, drifts in at more than triple the price of the base Model 3 at $133,990. The Model X being one of Tesla’s most luxurious vehicles comes with high-end features, including ventilated seats, more cargo room, a towing package for up to 5,000 pounds, additional seating options, 325+ miles of range, and mind-altering performance with a 0-60 mph speed in 2.5 seconds.

Model X

The Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X
Tesla

The Tesla Model X, introduced in 2015, represents a groundbreaking milestone in electric vehicles. The Model X boasts a falcon-wing door system, providing easy access to its spacious interior, which can comfortably seat up to seven passengers. Powered by Tesla’s state-of-the-art Autopilot system, panoramic windshield, and industry-leading infotainment system further elevate the driving experience. With a price range typically starting from $98,000 to $134,000, the Tesla Model X caters to discerning consumers seeking both sustainability and luxury on their commutes.

Model X (base)

  • Price: $98,490
  • Range: 348 miles
  • Weight: 5,185 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.8 sec
  • Top Speed: 149 mph

Model X Plaid

  • Price: $108,490
  • Range: 333 miles
  • Weight: 5,390 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 2.5 sec
  • Top Speed: 149 mph

Who is Model X For?

Tesla's Model X caters to a diverse range of consumers, including families, adventure enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts, luxury seekers, and environmentally conscious individuals. It addresses their specific needs by providing ample space, impressive performance, advanced technology, luxurious features, and a sustainable driving experience.

The Model X comes with additional luxurious features when compared to Tesla's other models. These include cooled seats, air suspension, falcon-wing doors, auto-opening and closing doors, better noise isolation, a premium noise-canceling sound system, premium materials, an instrument cluster, and a rear screen. 

Model S

The Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S
Tesla

The Tesla Model S, launched in 2012, remains a groundbreaking electric sedan that continues to set the standard for innovation and luxury in the automotive industry. As Tesla's flagship vehicle, the Model S combines elegant design, exceptional performance, and advanced technology. 

With its sleek and aerodynamic exterior, the Model S not only stands out on the road but also achieves remarkable electric range, thanks to its cutting-edge battery technology. Inside the cabin, passengers experience a refined and spacious environment, complemented by Tesla's signature 17-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an array of premium features. The Model S accelerates with astonishing speed, demonstrating the capabilities of electric propulsion while maintaining a smooth and silent ride. 

Tesla has continuously updated the Model S with over-the-air software updates, improving performance and adding new features, further solidifying its reputation as an industry-leading electric vehicle. As one of the pioneering electric cars, the Model S exemplifies Tesla's dedication to sustainable transportation, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.

Model S (base)

  • Price: $88,490
  • Range: 405 miles
  • Weight: 4,561 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 3.1 sec
  • Top Speed: 149 mph

Model S Plaid

  • Price: $108,490
  • Range: 396 miles
  • Weight: 4,766 lbs
  • Drivetrain: Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive
  • 0-60mph Speed: 1.99 sec
  • Top Speed: 200 mph

Who is Model S For?

Tesla's Model S is designed for electric vehicle enthusiasts, performance seekers, luxury car buyers, technology enthusiasts, eco-conscious consumers, and business executives. It offers a seamless blend of technology, performance, luxury, and sustainability, making it an appealing choice for those who seek an extraordinary electric driving experience.

The Model S also comes with more luxurious features when compared to the Model 3 and Model Y. These include cooled seats, air suspension, auto-appearing door handles, better noise isolation, a noise-canceling premium sound system, premium materials, an instrument cluster, and a rear screen. 

It’s worth noting that Tesla changes its pricing frequently. All the above models were priced with the free paint, standard interior and wheels, and basic Autopilot.

Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck
The Tesla Cybertruck
MatthewDR/Twitter

Tesla’s Cybertruck, unveiled in 2019, is a testament to the company’s push toward automotive and electric vehicle innovation. It’s promised to be loaded with newer tech and nearly impenetrable because of its ultra-hard 30x cold-rolled stainless steel exterior. In addition to its advanced technology, Cybertruck will include a large shatterproof windshield and ultra-durable rear bed. 

Its expected to be available in three variants, ranging from a single-motor RWD version, all the way up to a tri-motor AWD verison. The estimated EPA range is 250-500 miles with a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 - 6.5 seconds.

Tesla will begin Cybertruck deliveries this year, with volume production being achieved in 2024. 

Semi

The Tesla Semi
The Tesla Semi
Tesla

Originally unveiled in November 2017, Tesla Semi is designed to innovate the semi-truck market. Designed to have more than three times the power of a standard diesel truck, a range of up to 500 miles, and a 1,000 horsepower motor the size of a football, Tesla Semi provides true innovation for long-haul transportation.

The first bunch of Semis was delivered to PepsiCo in late 2022 at a delivery event, where its nickname, “The Beats,” was presented.

“[It has] three times the power than any diesel truck on the road right now,” Dan Priestley, Senior Manager of Tesla’s Semi Engineering, said at the time. “So you’ve got all the power you need to get the job done, but the other reason that it’s a beast is because it is efficient. You can go 500 miles on a single charge on one of these things. It’s the mix of those two—this is a game-changer. What’s awesome is both of those are enabled by our 1000-volt powertrain. This is the first vehicle we are with that.” 

First-Gen Roadster

Tesla’s original Roadster began production in 2008. It was a big milestone for the company because it was their first production vehicle. Prior to the Roadster, Tesla only produced a prototype of the vehicle to generate interest and secure funding. 

The Roadster was based on the Lotus Elise, a lightweight, two-seat sports car. Tesla worked with Lotus to develop the Roadster in order to tap into Lotus’ expertise in vehicle manufacturing. The final product borrowed the Elise’s chassis, but the vehicle's custom drivetrain, battery system, and body were entirely unique.

When it was originally released, it had a base price of $98,950 with later versions of the vehicle reaching a sticker price of $120,000. 

Next-Gen Roadster

The New Tesla Roadster
The New Tesla Roadster
Tesla

Tesla’s Next-Gen Roadster will be a marvel of automotive engineering, shattering barriers and pushing the laws of physics. Information about the Next-Gen Roadster has been sparse since its unveiling in 2017 alongside Semi, but CEO Elon Musk has stated the production of the Next-Gen Roadster will begin in 2024. 

Next-Gen Roadster Specs

According to Tesla’s website, the Roadster will be capable of going 0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds, a 620-mile range, and a top speed of more than 250 mph. Similar to the Cybertruck, it’ll be loaded with Tesla’s state-of-the-art safety features, all-wheel drive, and designed for unrivaled performance and aero efficiency.

Furthermore, in classic Tesla and Elon Musk fashion, the Roadster will have an optional SpaceX Package, which would increase the vehicle’s performance even further. Musk confirmed that with this package, 0-60 mph could be achieved in mere 1.1 seconds.

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Tesla Officially Unveils the 2025 Model Y - New Turn Signal Stalk, Front Camera, New Color, Light Bars and More

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

After a long wait, Tesla has finally launched the refreshed Model Y - the world’s best-selling vehicle - in China. The vehicle is available for pre-order throughout the Asia-Pacific market, so let’s dive into everything new.

Currently, Tesla’s order page expects the first vehicles - the Launch Series - to begin deliveries to customers in May 2025, just about four months away. For now, there are just two variants - the Rear Wheel Drive, and the Long Range, All Wheel Drive model.

Launch Series Edition

Similar to the Foundation Series Cybertrucks, the Launch Series Model Y’s are a limited release and include a set of additional options.

You’ll get an exclusive Launch Series badge on the rear liftgate and doorsill plate. Plus, the Launch Series badging shows up in the puddle lights too. The charging console also has “LAUNCH” as a wordmark on the trim, and the interior comes with an exclusive black vegan suede finish.

Launch Series for the Long Range AWD also comes with Acceleration Boost, the first time Tesla has ever included the feature outside of an “in-app” purchase.

What’s New

There are a lot of new things in the 2025 Model Y, from a new and sharp-looking exterior, an improved interior, and even better specs to round off the whole package. There are even several surprises that we didn’t know about. There’s a lot to like here.

Exterior

Tesla has redesigned the front and rear of the vehicle with iconic new light bars, which they mention increase vehicle aerodynamics, efficiency, and range. Part of this includes redesigned body castings for the Model Y refresh, reducing parts from 70… to just one. That’s fewer gaps, all designed to make an even quieter ride than before. We’re excited to see how all these improvements perform - after all, increasing stiffness is the key to a better ride.

The front bumper camera is also visible - so that’ll be the first for a Tesla vehicle outside of the Cybertruck. Hopefully, they’ll include it in FSD and Actually Smart Summon as well, but right now, at least on the Cybertruck, it’s only used for Autopark or, of course, to use it manually.

The refreshed Giga Casting
The refreshed Giga Casting
Not a Tesla App

Indirect Rear Light Bar

The rear light bar is actually not aimed away from the car - but at it. According to Tesla, it's the first indirect reflective body panel taillight - and it looks cool. Tesla has also redesigned several curves on the car - it looks far more aerodynamic and cuts a sharp figure over the original Model Y. These changes will improve range and performance.

The rear light bar
The rear light bar
Not a Tesla App

Tesla has also introduced a new color - Glacier Blue - exclusive to the 2025 Model Y Refresh for now. The standard color option is Stealth Grey, while Pearl White Multicoat, Glacier Blue, Quicksilver, and Ultra Red are all available as options.

The new Glacier Blue
The new Glacier Blue
Not a Tesla App

Tesla has also removed the hitch option from the Model Y Refresh. This is a big change - it was the only non-premium level Tesla vehicle to include a tow hitch. We’re hoping that Tesla does include a tow hitch in versions coming to North America and Europe - as many users do use them. If it is indeed gone, that’ll mean the only vehicles left in the lineup with tow hitches will be the Cybertruck, Model S, and Model X.

Interior

First up - ventilated seats and ambient lighting will be the first two things you see, along with new soft-touch finishes across the interior. Tesla has really hit the mark with the interior of the Model Y Refresh - it looks clean and sharp.

Updated interior with ambient lighting
Updated interior with ambient lighting
Not a Tesla App

The updated interior still features a 15.4-inch touchscreen - the same size as previous models but also includes an 8” rear touchscreen for all versions of the vehicle, similar to the refreshed Model 3.

Tesla has added improved connectivity to the vehicle - improving the range for the Phone Key, clearer calls, and faster cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity. This is likely a chipset improvement for the infotainment module - and includes a newer version of Bluetooth, as well as support for 5G. We’ll dig into these details once we know more.

The updated speakers are cleverly hidden away inside the trims, and we expect a lot of improvements for Tesla’s already fantastic audio - especially in the Long Range AWD version.

One of the coolest features is power reclining seats - you’ll be able to recline or raise your rear seats at the touch of a button in the rear of the vehicle and potentially in the vehicle menu, too. That’s going to be an amazing convenience feature for families and those moving luggage around.

Turn Signal Stalk

Not a Tesla App

In a surprising move, Tesla says they have listened to customer feedback and added a precision-engineered turn signal stalk. There’s only a single stalk on the left side of the steering wheel while the gear shifter remains on the screen and Autopilot remains as a steering wheel button.

The steering wheel buttons are similar to the Cybertruck, which provide “clicky” feedback. Since the turn signals have moved over to a stalk, Tesla is introducing customizable steering wheel buttons. You’ll likely be able to set them to features like turning on the front or rear cameras, voice commands or other features.

Handling

Just like the Model 3 refresh, Tesla has worked some magic on the suspension, improving vehicle handling and comfort while also offering more responsive steering and an even quieter ride. This includes updated tires, wheels, and a new suspension.

New Wheels, New Suspension
New Wheels, New Suspension
Not a Tesla App

No word yet on Adaptive Suspension - that’ll likely be a hold-out for the Performance variant, which will show up later in 2025.

Specs

Vehicle

Range*

0-60mph

Charging Speed (15m)

2024 AWD

501 km / 310 mi

5.0s

239km

2024 LR RWD

525 km / 326 mi

7.9s

250km

2025 AWD (Juniper)

551 km / 342 mi

4.3s

266km

2025 RWD (Juniper)

466 km / 289 mi

5.9s

229km

*Range for the Model Y Refresh is WLTP, while for the 2024 vehicle, it is EPA estimates. WLTP estimates are generally on the higher side owing to geography and temperature in the Asia-Pacific.

There’s a lot to take in right here, spec-wise. The Model Y Refresh AWD is faster than its predecessor and has a considerably longer range. According to Tesla’s spec sheet, it also charges slightly faster - even faster than the current LR RWD with its LFP battery. That’s a great improvement across the board.

Beautiful Curves
Beautiful Curves
Not a Tesla App

The RWD is less of an immediate improvement - but this is a Standard Range RWD - not a Long Range RWD, so the comparison isn’t exactly comparable to the 2024 LR RWD. It seems likely that Tesla will replace the Long Range RWD with the 2025 Standard Range RWD once it arrives in North America and Europe. However, even the RWD has a pretty hefty improvement in the 0-60 section.

When Does It Arrive

Tesla says that it’ll be shipping the Model Y Refresh in just a few short months - customer deliveries of the Launch Series should begin deliveries in May - if you’re in the Asia-Pacific region. For customers in Europe and North America, we’ll probably have to wait a few months before the 2025 Refresh arrives here - likely in the early summer months.

Tesla won’t keep people waiting too long - after all, it's the much-awaited refresh of the world’s best-selling vehicle. We’re super excited to see more of it and hopefully get our hands on it for a test drive in the future.

Tesla Model Y Juniper - Everything We Know Thanks to Latest Leaks

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

With the Model Y Juniper closer than ever, with production potentially beginning as soon as this month at Giga Shanghai, it is time to put all the cards on the table and take a look at everything we know about Project Juniper before it becomes a reality.

To make this easy, we’ll break this down into sections and then expand into what we know, what we expect, and any remaining rumors. This page should be a one-stop shop for everything we know about Project Juniper.

Battery & Range

Let’s kick off with the battery. While there were initial reports that Juniper could potentially get a 95kWh battery, this is relatively unlikely. The Model Y is aimed to replace the average SUV, which means that it has to compete against other SUVs in both price and range. 

While the Model Y doesn’t take any trophies for range, it is priced attractively throughout the world, and this is one of the key reasons that it has been the best-selling vehicle globally in back-to-back years.

Instead, we’d go ahead and take a more conservative estimate and assume that the Model Y Juniper’s range will sit fairly close to the current vehicles. At best, a 10% range increase can likely be expected. Here’s our take in the table below.

Variant

Current Model Y

Model Y Juniper

Long Range Rear Wheel Drive

337mi

350mi

Long Range All Wheel Drive

320mi

340mi

Performance

311mi

330mi

In addition, Tesla will most likely use the same pack that currently exists in the Model 3 Highland - the two vehicles share many similar parts. This parts similarity offers Tesla the ability to rapidly and quickly scale vehicle production while also cutting down on production and service costs due to part sharing. 

Changing to new battery tech, like the upcoming NC20s could be a possibility, but Tesla has previously mentioned they don’t expect to introduce these until at least late 2026. Instead, we’ll probably see updated versions of the CATL 6M packs for the RWD variant and 2170 cells from Panasonic or LG in the other two variants.

Wireless Charging Contacts

The Cybertruck shipped with a set of internal connectors to prepare it for a future retrofit for Tesla’s Wireless Charger - and we’re hoping to see this in the Model Y Juniper as well. After all, why not future-proof newer vehicles for robotaxi capabilities like wireless charging if the Cybertruck already has support?

Adaptive Suspension & Track Mode V3

The Model 3 Highland’s performance variant arrived with frequency-selective damping suspension, while the overall Highland package was improved with softer springs and a smoother ride. Plus, tuning for suspension options arrived in the Dynamics menu, enabling owners to tighten up or loosen up their ride based on what they felt most comfortable with.

Further tuning was enabled in Track Mode V3, which provided even more options and more control over vehicle endurance than Track Mode V2. Track Mode V3 will be a big jump for the Model Y Juniper, so we’re excited to see what they do here.

Light Bars & Front Fascia

All the leaked images we have seen of Juniper so far have given us a good perspective on what really looks like a light bar, and the latest uncovered leak confirms what we already suspected.

The two lights, upper and lower.
The two lights, upper and lower.
Not a Tesla App

Similar to the Cybertruck, the front light bar acts as daytime running lights, while the lower mounted lights act as the actual low beams and high beams. What’s interesting is that the newly uncovered photos reveal what looks like two gaps in the light bar. Most Tesla fans agree that it’s not a great look and would much rather have a continuous light bar across the front of the vehicle.

On the rear side, we’ve also seen a rear light bar in some leaked images, but others show a totally different rear design that doesn’t integrate a light bar but instead has a one-piece tail light and a set of bottom lights. We’re not quite where Tesla will go with the rear, but it's likely to be the one-piece + set of bottom lights, as the bottom lights are a legal requirement in North America, Europe, and China.

Abomb1997 on Reddit

Performance-Only Fascia

The Model 3 Highland’s performance variant received an updated fascia that helps direct air to the wheels and brakes for cooling - and we expect a similarly designed, more aggressive fascia to arrive with the Performance variant of Juniper.

Interior

The Model 3 Highland received fantastic interior upgrades, so we expect to see most, if not all of them arrive on the Model Y Juniper as well.

Ventilated Seats

Just like the Model 3 Highland, we expect Juniper will be equipped with ventilated seats, which brings a fairly premium-level feature to a vehicle more aimed at the mass market. Ventilated seats have always been a big ask from customers, and the Model 3 receiving them was a good sign that this feature will make its way into the Model Y Juniper as well.

Updated Steering Wheel

Not a Tesla App

A new photo of the interior not only shows off a stalkless steering wheel with the primary shifter moved over to the screen but also reveals a squircle steering wheel. It’s not clear whether this will make its way to production, but given all the changes to Juniper when compared to the new Model 3, it wouldn’t be surprising if Tesla added another unique feature to the upcoming 2025 Model Y.

If you really miss those turn stalks - we recommend taking a look at Enhauto’s S3XY stalks, which are launching in early 2025! However, make sure you give the signal buttons a try - while they take some time to get used to, they are pretty nice!

Rear Screen

The Model 3 Highland finally brought with it a rear screen to all its variants usable for gaming, media content, and controlling rear climate. It’s a convenient and fantastic update that helps the Model 3 feel just a little more premium.

We expect the rear screen to also make its way to the Model Y Juniper, and costs little to nothing for Tesla to add, as it is run off the main infotainment computer. It actually probably benefits Tesla, as it increases the demand for rear passengers to be able to watch YouTube, Netflix, or something else - which requires Tesla’s Premium Connectivity,

Ambient Lighting

Another set of leaked images also showed off the interior ambient lighting - it looked different enough from the Model 3 to not be the same vehicle. The interior ambient lighting in Juniper seems to go midway down the door rather than ending at the very edge of the door.

Take this one with a grain of salt, though - as this was likely a very early prototype, and the leaked images are from July. Six months is a lot of time to make a lot of changes to a vehicle - especially since Tesla has already introduced ambient lighting in the Chinese Model Y.

6 Seat Variant

A report from a Chinese paper mentioned that a 6-seat variant of the Model Y would make its way to the production lines sometime in late 2025. Reuters also reported that this variant would be a Chinese-exclusive version, but we’re hoping to see this make its way to North America and Europe as well - especially since the 7-seat variant can be extremely cramped.

More Speakers

Tesla puts a lot of effort into their sound systems - fine-tuning them to sound far better than most third-party solutions in other vehicles. The Highland brought with it an additional 3 speakers for the Long Range and Performance variants, and the updated Model Y Juniper will likely have the same additional set of speakers.

FSD Hardware

While the updated Model Y is expected to have a new front bumper camera and a rear camera that’s placed on the trunk lid instead of above the license plate, we don’t expect any other changes on the FSD front.

AI4, not AI5

Not a Tesla App

While Elon initially said that AI5 FSD computers would be about 18 months out this summer, we expect the updated Juniper Y will launch far before that, and Tesla will likely perform a similar rollover as what occurred between HW3 and AI4.

That means we can expect that AI4 will be powering the Juniper Y, just like the rest of the Tesla fleet, at least for the time being. If you were hoping to hop onto the latest and greatest FSD hardware with the launch of the Juniper, you may be disappointed.

Instead, you could look forward to Unsupervised FSD making its way to AI4 vehicles sometime in 2025, especially with Tesla looking to deploy robotaxis in the United States already.

Bumper Camera

One big change that we could expect is the arrival of the bumper camera. The prototypes spotted earlier in the year had what appeared to be a camera on the bumper, similar to the one mounted on the Cybertruck. Cybertruck doesn’t actually use this camera for FSD but does use it for Autopark. We were also expecting updated versions of the Model S and Model X with the bumper camera, but we have yet to see that change being made - so it could be that the bumper camera remains Cybertruck exclusive for now.

However, it would be a fantastically beneficial change, and while it isn’t clear whether the bumper camera will make it to production, we at least know Tesla has been considering adding it.

Wrap-Up

That’s everything we know without diving too deep into numerous rumors. We actually did a rumour round-up recently, so if you’re interested in seeing what our research dug up on the Model Y Juniper, check it out here.

It shouldn’t be long now until Tesla officially unveils the new 2025 Model Y — Project Juniper.

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