The Tesla Model Y is a car that needs little introduction. It has dominated the global EV sales charts for several years, consistently ranking as one of the best-selling electric vehicles worldwide. Now, Tesla has given it a mid-cycle update, refining its design, improving comfort, and tweaking its technology. So, what’s changed, and is it still the benchmark for electric family SUVs? Let’s dive in.

Range and Charging

Tesla has made subtle aerodynamic improvements to the Model Y, allowing it to squeeze out an extra 30km of range in the Dual Motor Long Range variant. This brings its official WLTP range to 568km.

Charging remains one of the Model Y’s strongest assets. It still supports 250kW rapid charging, meaning a 10-80% charge takes under 30 minutes, placing it among the fastest-charging electric SUVs alongside the Porsche Macan EV and Audi Q6 e-tron. And, of course, Tesla’s Supercharger network remains one of the most reliable and cost-effective charging infrastructures available, giving owners a major advantage for long-distance travel.

Exterior

While this isn't a ground-up redesign, the 2025 Model Y gets a refreshed look inspired by the Cybertruck and Cybercab, giving it a sharper, more aggressive stance. The front end features a sleek, full-width light bar, while the rear has been updated with a new continuous LED strip, giving it a more premium and futuristic appearance.

Tesla has also improved the aerodynamics and chassis stiffness, which should translate to better handling and ride comfort. Standard equipment now includes 20-inch alloy wheels and a tow hitch, with the Dual Motor Long Range version rated to tow up to 1,600kg.

For now, only two exterior colours are included as standard – Solid Black and Quicksilver – while the interior is limited to black upholstery.

Interior

Step inside the 2025 Model Y, and you’ll find the familiar minimalist aesthetic remains, but with a few key refinements aimed at improving comfort and usability. The front seats are now ventilated as well as heated, making them more comfortable for long journeys, while the rear seats have been redesigned with improved cushioning to enhance passenger support. Tesla has also introduced acoustic glass, helping to reduce road and wind noise, making the cabin quieter than before.

One of the most noticeable upgrades is the addition of an 8-inch touchscreen in the rear, allowing passengers to control climate settings and even enjoy some in-car gaming. The in-car tech has also been improved, with faster internet connectivity, better phone-key pairing, and upgraded USB-C charging ports for added convenience.

Despite the Model Y’s sloping roofline, rear headroom remains generous, ensuring even taller passengers can sit comfortably. The panoramic glass roof remains a standout feature, flooding the cabin with natural light and adding to the sense of space. While the Model Y has lost 20 litres of boot space, it still boasts an impressive 2,138-litre total load capacity, including the front trunk (frunk). Practicality is further enhanced with electrically folding rear seats and a powered tailgate, making loading and unloading easier than ever.

This updated interior may not be revolutionary, but it refines what was already a practical and user-friendly space, making the Model Y even more appealing for daily use and long-distance journeys.

Cost considerations

Tesla has opened Irish orders for the facel-ifted Model Y (also known as the "Juniper" update), but only for the Dual-Motor Long Range version at launch. This new version comes with a significant price increase, jumping from €51,990 to €60,990.

While Tesla has a history of adjusting pricing, this hike places the Model Y in an increasingly competitive space, with premium EV rivals like the BMW iX3 and Mercedes EQB now firmly in its price range.

Conclusion

The 2025 Tesla Model Y isn’t a drastic reinvention, but it refines and improves on what was already a hugely successful formula. The styling updates give it a more modern look, the interior tweaks improve comfort, and the charging speed remains one of the best in its class.

The price increase may give some buyers pause, but for those who value Tesla’s tech, efficiency, and Supercharger network, the Model Y remains one of the most compelling electric SUVs on the market.

We’ll be getting behind the wheel for a full test drive soon, so stay tuned for our real-world impressions!