This is what the New Tesla Model Y looks like

Images of the thoroughly updated 2025 Tesla Model Y, codenamed Project Juniper, have surfaced from China, sparking significant buzz around the electric vehicle (EV). With reports suggesting that up to 50,000 pre-orders have already been placed, the refreshed Model Y looks set to maintain its dominance in the competitive Chinese EV market. In fact, last year, the Model Y became China’s best-selling car, with over 480,000 units sold, and the new version is expected to continue that success.

A Glimpse of the New Model Y

Among the most intriguing images shared on Chinese social media are photos of what appears to be a Launch Edition of the new Model Y, finished in a sleek Glacier Blue (although the color appears more grayish in these shots). The car features a distinctive new badge on the tailgate, confirming its refreshed identity.

This particular vehicle stands at the front of a line-up of both pre-facelift and facelifted versions of the Model Y, likely marking one of the first units produced at Tesla’s Shanghai facility.

Design Changes and New Features

While the images may not do justice to the updated Model Y’s proportions—making the roofline appear unusually high and the body narrower than expected—official photos from Tesla confirm that the vehicle’s stance remains largely the same as the outgoing model.

However, the new design elements are evident, particularly the front fascia, which takes inspiration from the Cybertruck and Cybercab. The Model Y now features a split headlamp setup, accompanied by thin LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and a prominent light bar, giving it a more angular, futuristic look.

At the rear, the updated taillights are paired with an additional light bar, adding a contemporary touch. However, the black trim connecting the taillights has received mixed reactions, with some likening it to the design of the Toyota Prius or, less favorably, to the long-defunct Dodge Dart.

Xpeng G7: A New Contender in the EV SUV Segment

Powertrain Options and Performance

Chinese regulatory data has provided more insight into the refreshed Model Y’s powertrain options for the market. There will be two variants:

• Base Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Produces 295 hp (220 kW).
• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Pairs a 184-hp (137 kW) front motor with a 260-hp (194 kW) rear motor.

Both versions will feature exclusive trim touches tailored to the Chinese market, such as a Plaid-like badge and Chinese characters on the tailgate. The AWD launch edition, dubbed the Model Y+, will come standard with the Acceleration Boost feature, offering a performance advantage right out of the gate.

Strong Demand Despite Competition

Despite a growing preference among Chinese buyers for local EV brands, the response to the updated Model Y has been overwhelmingly positive. CarNewsChina reports that 50,000 pre-orders were placed on the day of the unveiling. Additionally, Tesla sales staff in China have noted a surge in interest, with hundreds of orders flooding in shortly after the announcement. Local deliveries are expected to begin as early as April or May.

Looking to Build on Previous Success

Tesla’s updated Model Y is poised to further bolster the company’s already strong sales in China. In 2024, Tesla sold a total of 480,309 Model Ys, surpassing the 456,394 units delivered in 2023. December proved especially strong, with a total of 61,881 vehicles finding new owners in the month alone.

As Tesla continues to refine its offerings, the refreshed Model Y is set to further solidify its status as a top contender in China’s rapidly growing EV market. The blend of cutting-edge design, strong performance, and an enticing price point is expected to continue drawing customers in the country, making it a vehicle to watch in the year ahead.