smartest family suv yet

Tesla’s refreshed Model Y, codenamed “Juniper,” arrived on January 10, 2025, with a redesigned look inspired by the Cybertruck and Cybercab. The updated electric SUV features a more aerodynamic design with a stiffer body shell. Tesla says it’s improved the handling, comfort, and noise levels compared to the previous generation.

The new Model Y sports a sleeker front with a more efficient nose and a thin light bar across the hood. A full-width light strip replaces traditional tail lights at the rear. The lower front splitter helps improve aerodynamics for better range. Tesla kept the vehicle’s overall length at 187 inches with a wheelbase of 113.8 inches.

Tesla’s redesigned Model Y features a sleeker aerodynamic front, full-width light strips, and maintains its 187-inch length.

Inside, passengers will find an 8-inch touchscreen for rear seats in all variants. A configurable light strip runs along the entire cabin. The SUV includes powered rear seats and improved suspension. Tesla kept the traditional turn signal stalk after customers asked for it. All models now come with acoustic glass as standard equipment. The Model Y was the first Tesla to use a heat pump for cabin heating, which can be up to 300% more efficient than traditional electric resistance heating.

The Long Range rear-wheel drive version uses a single electric motor making 295 horsepower. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. The all-wheel drive model combines two types of motors for 384 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. Tesla reduced the top speed from 135 mph to 125 mph for non-performance versions.

Range numbers have improved across the lineup. The Long Range version now travels 447 miles on a charge, up from 428 miles. The rear-wheel drive variant offers 337 miles of range. Home charging takes about 12 hours using a 240-volt connection. During cold weather conditions, Tesla drivers should expect range to decrease by up to 30% under sub-zero temperatures.

Tesla brought back the three-row, seven-seat version in June 2025. The Performance model returned in August 2025. The Launch Series starts at about $60,000 and includes Full Self-Driving technology that usually costs an extra $8,000. The previous Model Y starts at $44,990 for the rear-wheel drive version. The Model Y ranks #8 in Best Electric Compact SUVs according to industry comparisons.

The refreshed Model Y will be available in the United States starting March 2025. Tesla will build the vehicles in the United States. The SUV can tow up to 3,500 pounds and offers 76.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded.