Tesla Model Y Facelift : UK Launch, New Look, and Upgrades

(Posted on 31/01/25)

It’s here! After much anticipation, we finally got a good look at the facelifted Model Y, and it’s about time. Over the past five years, we have seen minimal updates on the Model Y, Tesla’s best-selling electric SUV was starting to feel like it was falling behind the competition. Rivals like the Kia EV6, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Peugeot e-3008 have been stealing the spotlight with bold designs, cutting-edge tech, and improved range. Tesla’s response? A fresh facelift and some upgrades to remind everyone why the Model Y became the go-to EV in the first place. So, is it worth the hype? Let’s dive in.

Set to arrive in the UK this April, the best-selling electric car gets a fresh update and will launch with a single Launch Edition trim, expected to cost around £60,000. It will feature the same dual-motor layout as the current Model Y but with an improved battery pack. The range now sits at 353 miles, a modest 22-mile bump over its predecessor. Peak charging remains at 250kW, its 0-62mph sprint still clocks in at a brisk 4.3 seconds, and it boasts a top speed of 125 mph. While the extra 22 miles of range are nice, we can't help wishing for a little more improvement on that front. Still, the facelifted Model Y is shaping up to keep its competitive edge—just about.

The updated Model Y sports a fresh new look, heavily inspired by the sharp, futuristic styling of the Cybertruck. Up front, there is a sleek light bar paired with secondary main lighting units positioned below it, while the indicators are neatly integrated into the outer edges, giving the car a cleaner and more streamlined appearance. It is noticeably distinct from previous models, with a design that feels more refined and modern. The facelifted Model Y is 47 mm longer than its predecessor but 1 mm narrower, making it slightly bigger overall yet retaining its agile stance.

The updated Model Y will be available in silver and black, with a choice of 19 or 20-inch alloy wheels in different designs. More colour and wheel options are set to be added later on in the year.

At the rear of the new Model Y, there are noticeable changes. First, the new lighting setup features a hidden full-width light bar, where the light is reflected by a textured grey trim rather than being directly illuminated. The main rear light units are now seamlessly integrated into the surrounding black trim and include the indicators and brake lights. As for the panoramic roof, it remains a standard feature but now comes with improved solar reflectivity to help keep second-row passengers cooler.

Inside, the second-row seats have been reshaped for added comfort, and now feature power-folding functionality, controlled via a button mounted in the boot. Additionally, the new magnetic parcel shelf can be folded away and conveniently mounted under the boot floor when not in use.

Tesla has also made improvements to reduce wind, road, and suspension noise by 20%. As for the interior, it offers white and black colour options and now includes a centre console. The new steering wheel, inspired by the Model 3, adds to the refreshed look, while the restyled door cards feature wraparound ambient lighting. All four seats are now heated and cooled, and there are two 65W USB ports capable of charging laptops simultaneously.

The infotainment system gets a nice upgrade—while the 15.4-inch touchscreen stays, it is now faster and more responsive, offering a smoother experience. The fun part? An 8-inch touchscreen has been added for rear passengers, giving them control over the climate and entertainment options. However, if you were hoping for the seven-seat version to return to the UK, there are still no plans for that, despite its success.

That is all we really know for now but expect more details to surface in the coming weeks as we learn about other variants of the new Model Y, including performance and long-range RWD options. While a specific arrival date hasn’t been set, regular long-range AWD models are expected later this year.