​Tesla has officially revealed the all-new 2025 Model Y, unveiling it on its Chinese website. China has been the biggest market for this electric SUV with the car built at Tesla’s factory in Shanghai, and the refreshed Model Y brings a host of improvements, from fresh looks to upgraded tech.

Although some details may change when the car appears on Tesla’s UK website, it’s not expected to be too long before UK buyers can order a new Model Y. The timing mirrors last year’s announcement of the new Model 3, with UK orders and deliveries following swiftly after the first reveal of the car.

Fresh Take on an Iconic Design

If you were expecting a radical departure, think again. The new Model Y refines what already made the Model Y Britain’s best-selling electric car in 2024. 

At the front, a Cybertruck-inspired full-width light bar makes a bold statement, complemented by sleeker main headlights lower down and a more aerodynamic bumper design that also houses a new front camera for the Model Y’s self-driving features.

From the side, it’s business as usual – the familiar deep windscreen and panoramic glass roof remain. Subtle tweaks to the profile, like the addition of more aerodynamic wheels and a slight increase in length, aim to boost both efficiency and performance. 

At the back, there’s a new light show: C-shaped LED taillights remain but are joined by a reflective light bar that features the Tesla name spelled out. 

The boot now opens automatically as you approach, revealing an impressive 2,130 litres of cargo space, including the frunk under the bonnet.

Colours, Interiors, and Tech upgrades​

Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that’s familiar yet upgraded – although like the latest Model 3, the indicator and gear selector stalks have disappeared. In the case of the Model 3, the indicators are now operated by buttons on the steering wheel, with the gear selection on the touchscreen.

The minimalist dashboard remains, dominated by a 15.4-inch central screen. Rear passengers now get an eight-inch screen loaded with games, while the rear seats can fold electrically with the press of a button. Meanwhile, the front seats add ventilation to their existing heating function.

Although a seven-seat option has been added to the current Model Y, you’ll probably have to wait until later in the year for that as an option on the new car.

Tesla has also worked on the finer details to improve refinement. There’s new acoustic glass, while softer materials on the dash and doors elevate the cabin’s quality. The ambient lighting – introduced in the revamped Model 3 earlier in 2024 – makes its way here, too. Interior colour choices are the same as before: you can have all black or a black-and-white combo.

You can choose from five colours outside, too, including a new Glacier Blue, alongside Stealth Grey, Pearl White, Quicksilver, and Ultra Red.

A Smoother Ride

One gripe about the old Model Y? Its firm ride and Tesla seems to have heard the feedback loud and clear. The 2025 Model Y gets new suspension, hubs, and tyres, all designed to deliver a more compliant ride over bumps and a quieter, more refined driving experience. On top of that, a reduction in chassis components contributes to better overall refinement, while body changes are also said to reduce any repair costs.

Performance and Range Upgrades

For now, Tesla’s offering two Launch Edition versions of the Model Y in China: a long-range all-wheel-drive model and a standard-range rear-wheel-drive version. While battery specifics haven’t been shared, Chinese tests show a significant boost in range – up to 447 miles for the long-range version and 368 miles for the standard. Both versions charge quickly too, with rates of 250kW and 170kW, respectively.

Performance is as quick as expected. The long-range model sprints from 0 to 62mph in just 4.3 seconds, while the standard-range version takes a respectable 5.9 seconds. Both have a top speed of 125mph. A Performance version is expected for later in 2025, which is likely to feature subtle spoilers and Tesla’s signature Performance badging.

When Can You Get It?

With production ramping up in China, the Model Y is already on sale there, starting at ¥303,500 (£33,600) for the long-range variant and ¥263,500 (£29,200) for the standard-range model. UK buyers might not have to wait long, as Tesla is expected to open orders in the next few weeks.