Tesla’s Model Y, the brand’s top-selling electric vehicle worldwide in 2023, has been given the internal code name “Juniper.” This model has maintained its position as the best-selling electric vehicle globally, with over 1.2 million units sold in 2023. The Model Y’s combination of a well-sized electric SUV with solid range, a low starting price in the mid-$40,000 range, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network has contributed to its widespread success. Despite this, Tesla’s decision to update the Model 3 sedan before the Model Y has sparked curiosity, given the Y’s overwhelming popularity.
While the Model Y remains a strong performer in the electric vehicle market, it isn’t without its flaws. In tests, issues like a noisy interior, stiff ride, and inconsistent build quality have been pointed out by reviewers. These concerns are notably similar to the issues Tesla addressed in the 2023 Model 3 overhaul, which improved the sedan’s ride quality, interior noise levels, and material quality. These changes were instrumental in enhancing the Model 3’s appeal, so there’s hope that the upcoming Juniper update will improve the Model Y in similar ways.
The upcoming changes to the Model Y Juniper are expected to mirror those made to the Model 3, based on spy photos and reports. These updates should focus on enhancing the overall refinement and perceived quality of the vehicle. Tesla is anticipated to include improvements such as a rear-seat touchscreen with apps, games, and climate controls, along with heated rear seats, which were added to the Model 3. The steering wheel is also set to receive an upgrade, with controls previously located on stalks now integrated into the spokes.
Exterior changes are likely to be subtle but notable, with spy shots indicating potential modifications to the front and rear of the vehicle. While the Model 3’s refresh introduced thinner, modern lighting, the Model Y Juniper might adopt a split front headlight and fog light design, drawing inspiration from recent designs by Nissan, Hyundai, and BMW. The rear of the vehicle could feature a full-width taillight, reminiscent of Tesla’s upcoming Robotaxi. Despite these changes, the Model Y’s iconic rounded roofline is expected to remain intact, making the Juniper update a significant, but not radically different, refresh.
In addition to the upgrades to features and styling, the Juniper update will likely bring new technology to the Model Y. For instance, the touchscreen transmission controls and touch-sensitive overhead buttons seen in the Model 3 are expected to be incorporated into the Model Y. While some of these changes, such as the touchscreen, will look similar to the current model, the functionality and design should improve in line with the changes made to the Model 3.
With Tesla experiencing a slight dip in sales, the Juniper update for the Model Y is expected to be a key part of the company’s strategy to boost sales in 2025. Tesla is anticipated to reveal the upgraded Model Y in early 2025, with sales beginning by the fall. This refresh aims to maintain the Model Y’s strong market position while addressing the vehicle’s known shortcomings.
