Tesla Model Y Juniper is revealed to use split headlights and rear taillights

The Tesla Model Y is getting ready for its most dramatic update since its debut in 2019. While the core design remains largely unchanged, the update, codenamed Project Juniper, promises to introduce enough new features and tweaks to help the world’s best-selling electric car stay ahead of the competition and maintain its global dominance.

More: Everything we know about Tesla Model Y Juniper

Over the past month, a number of camouflaged prototypes of the updated Model Y have been spotted in the United States, Europe and Asia, further fueling rumors that the updated Model Y is about to begin production in China. The sightings offer a glimpse into Tesla’s efforts to further refine its already popular SUV.

What’s new out there?

The updated Model Y Juniper seems to have taken a page from the Model 3 “Highland” and adopted a new design that is safe and reliable. Judging from the camouflage-covered test car, Tesla engineers focused on tweaking the front and rear ends while keeping the middle section unchanged.

To kick off the new year, the latest spy photos from Europe provide the clearest look yet at the updated front end of the Model Y, showcasing split LED headlights and a more streamlined bumper design. A similar look was seen on a test vehicle in a recent spy video shot in California, suggesting the Model Y may feature a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from the sharper, more minimalist design of its closely related sedan sibling. Come on.

Baldolf

That said, these are still test vehicles, so some elements, such as the split headlight design, may not make it to production. Tesla has experimented with a variety of front-end designs over the past year, with some prototypes featuring split headlights and others not, so there’s still some mystery surrounding the final look.

At the rear, heavy camouflage obscures much of the design, but slimmer taillights and fresh LED graphics are clearly visible. Recent videos posted by user X (formerly Twitter) Supaji Ponnothon A full-width light bar across the rear end is also shown, which is consistent with previous spy shots of a matte LED tail light bar. If this makes it to production, this could be one of the most notable design upgrades.

See more

🧐🧐🤔🤔 @klwtts @ Sawyer Merritt pic.twitter.com/bZWV7rn3FA

— Suppakit Phonorthong (@suppalatte) December 29, 2024

New extended six-seat model for China

Tesla plans to launch two versions of the facelifted Model Y. The standard five-seat model will remain, with an optional third-row configuration for two additional passengers. However, it is reported that specifically for the Chinese market, Tesla is developing a six-seat version with an extended wheelbase, scheduled to debut in the fourth quarter of 2025. This version will cater to market demand for more spacious family cars.

interior updates

Internally, the updated Model Y is expected to adopt a more minimalist design, eliminating the traditional wipers, turn signal stalks and shift levers. These controls will likely be replaced by touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel and center touchscreen, as in the facelifted Model 3 “Highland”.

On the bright side, Tesla is rolling out new features designed to improve comfort and functionality. The updated Model Y will feature a redesigned (less toy-looking) steering wheel, slimmer infotainment screen bezels, more supportive front seats with cooling capabilities, multi-color ambient lighting, and new Rear seat touchscreen – similar to ours. Seen in the Model 3 facelift.

Read: Deutsche Bank reports Tesla exec confirms Model Q will sell for $30,000 in 2025

What’s more, EVs will benefit from higher-quality materials in the cabin and improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) thanks to chassis and suspension upgrades. These enhancements may also be accompanied by onboard technology updates.

How is the performance?

Mechanically, the Model Y’s battery and powertrain options are expected to carry over from the current version. However, Tesla may launch a more powerful Model Y Performance variant with similar specifications to the updated Model 3 Performance, which will appeal to customers looking for a faster and more exciting electric SUV.

Other carryover options may include standard and long-range versions, available in dual-motor configurations with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

See more

🧐🧐🤔🤔 @klwtts @ Sawyer Merritt pic.twitter.com/bZWV7rn3FA

— Suppakit Phonorthong (@suppalatte) December 29, 2024

When can it be used?

According to Chinese media reports, including theirThe updated Model Y “Juniper” will begin mass production at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory this month. This timeline is consistent with Elon Musk’s earlier statement that the updated Model Y would not launch before the end of 2024.

More: New Tesla models crippled by AP4 computer glitch, destroying basic functionality

In fact, some sources indicate that Tesla is already producing early prototypes in Shanghai as part of its preparations for full production.

Should you wait or buy now?

Ahead of the updated model’s release, Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in China by an additional 10,000 yen ($1,370), bringing it to its lowest price ever. The move appears to be paying off: Between January and November 2024, the Model Y was the best-selling car in China, with 373,000 units sold, accounting for 73% of Tesla’s sales in the region.

For U.S. buyers, the decision between waiting for the updated Model Y or buying the current version comes down to timing and motivation. Buying now guarantees a $7,500 federal tax credit, but that credit could disappear depending on the policies of the next administration. However, the upcoming update promises meaningful upgrades, so for those who value the latest features and design, the wait may be worth it.

Illustration: Thanos Pappas of CarScoops

See more

Spotted: New Model Y “Juniper” driving around San Jose, CA! pic.twitter.com/H84WViFGQh

— Colin W. (@Y2KColin) December 12, 2024