The electric vehicle landscape is constantly evolving, and Tesla remains at the forefront of innovation. The highly anticipated 2025 Tesla Model Y, internally known as “Project Juniper,” is poised to redefine the electric SUV segment once again. Set to begin deliveries in March 2025 in the U.S., this facelifted model isn’t just a minor refresh; it’s a comprehensive upgrade designed to solidify the Model Y’s position as the world’s most popular EV. Let’s delve into the details of what “Project Juniper” brings to the table.
Design and Exterior Enhancements
Image showing the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper front three-quarter view, highlighting the redesigned front fascia and sleeker headlights.
Image showcasing the rear three-quarter angle of the Tesla Project Juniper Model Y, emphasizing the new full-width taillight design.
Distinguishing the 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper” from its predecessor is now remarkably easier, mirroring the significant visual updates seen in the new Model 3. The exterior refresh includes redesigned headlights, bumpers, and wheel options. These changes, combined with the Model Y’s inherently larger form factor and flared fenders, create a more pronounced visual separation from the Model 3 sedan.
Striking New Headlamp Design
Close-up image of the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper headlights, illustrating the split design and integrated light strip for a more modern aesthetic.
Drawing inspiration from the futuristic Tesla Cybertruck and Cybercab, the 2025 Model Y boasts a bolder front end. The split headlamp design is a key element, featuring distinct daytime running lights connected by a sleek light strip. The hood appears elongated, leading to a more upright nose and sharper bumper, contributing to a more aggressive and modern stance for the facelifted Model Y “Project Juniper”.
For European markets, enhanced safety features are expected with the integration of adaptive headlights in the new Model Y. These headlights, which Tesla refers to as ‘Adaptive Main Beam,’ adjust automatically based on steering input, yaw, and speed, improving visibility during turns. This feature is already available in the updated Model 3 in Europe via a software update.
Enhanced Pedestrian Safety with Active Hood
A significant safety enhancement likely to be included in the “Project Juniper” Model Y is the ‘Active Hood’ system. Designed to mitigate pedestrian injuries in the event of a collision, this system is triggered at speeds between approximately 19-32 mph (30-52 km/h). If a pedestrian impact is detected, the rear portion of the hood automatically elevates by about 3.1 inches (80 mm), increasing the buffer space between the hood and underlying hard components, thereby reducing potential injury severity.
Futuristic Taillight and Logo Refresh
Image highlighting the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper rear design, showcasing the full-width light bar and the new Tesla lettering.
The rear of the 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper” receives a dramatic makeover with a full-width, diffuse taillight. This “cross-car lamp,” as Tesla describes it, creates a distinctive and futuristic rear light signature, representing a unique take on indirect reflective body panel taillights. Replacing the traditional “T” logo is a modern block-lettered “TESLA” inscription, subtly integrated within the new light panel. Relocating the license plate area to the bumper further cleans up the tailgate design, which now includes a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.
New Color and Wheel Choices
Adding to the personalization options, the facelifted Model Y introduces a new exterior color, ‘Glacier Blue,’ expected to be a premium option. Complementing the refreshed exterior are two new wheel designs: the 19-inch Crossflow wheels and the 20-inch Helix 2.0 wheels, allowing owners to further customize their “Project Juniper” Model Y.
Interior and Feature Upgrades
Interior view of the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper, emphasizing the redesigned dashboard, ambient lighting, and integrated screens.
Image of the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper rear seats, showing the updated design and spacious legroom.
Inside the 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper,” a completely redesigned interior echoes the sophisticated aesthetics of the new Model 3. The dashboard now seamlessly flows into the door panels, creating a more unified and premium cabin feel. Subtle ambient lighting accentuates these integrated panels, highlighted by elegant aluminum trim. The center console has been refined with a cleaner, more angular design and now includes a cover for the cupholders when not in use.
The familiar 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system remains the central hub, now powered by second-generation connectivity hardware for improved performance and responsiveness. Ventilated front seats are a welcome addition, enhancing comfort for both driver and passenger, particularly in warmer climates.
Image of the new 15.4-inch infotainment screen in the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper, showcasing the user interface.
Image of the new 8-inch rear touchscreen display in the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper, providing entertainment and control for rear passengers.
Rear passengers in the “Project Juniper” Model Y also benefit from significant upgrades. The 60:40 split rear seats now feature electric recline and folding functionality. An 8-inch touchscreen is integrated into the rear, allowing passengers to enjoy movies, games, music streaming, and control comfort settings. The audio experience is further elevated with an upgraded 16-speaker sound system and improved noise cancellation thanks to double-layer acoustic glass, creating a more immersive and quieter cabin.
Image depicting the seven-seat configuration option in the Tesla Model Y, indicating continued availability for the 2025 Project Juniper model.
Similar to the current model, the 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper” is expected to retain the optional seven-seat configuration in the U.S. Rumors from China suggest a potential six-seat version may be introduced later, catering to different passenger needs.
Performance and Specifications
Tesla has released preliminary specifications for the U.S.-spec 2025 Model Y “Project Juniper,” confirming a Launch Series Long Range AWD variant with an estimated range of 320 miles on a single charge. While a modest increase from the current model’s 311 miles, it signifies Tesla’s ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency.
The existing Model Y lineup in the U.S. includes Long Range RWD, Long Range AWD, and Performance AWD variants. The base RWD model achieves 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds with a top speed of 135 mph and an EPA-estimated range of 337 miles.
Image highlighting the split headlight design of the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper, emphasizing the modern lighting technology.
Rear three-quarter view of the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper, showing the updated taillight design and overall vehicle silhouette.
The Long Range AWD variant enhances performance with a dual-motor setup, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds while maintaining the 135 mph top speed and offering an EPA-estimated range of 311 miles.
The Performance AWD variant prioritizes speed, reaching 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and boasting a higher top speed of 155 mph, with an EPA-estimated range of 277 miles.
Front three-quarter angle image of the 2025 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper, showcasing the overall refreshed design and stance.
Future iterations of the U.S.-spec Model Y “Project Juniper” Standard and Long Range variants may see a slightly reduced top speed of 125 mph, potentially traded for an improved EPA-estimated range, potentially reaching up to 350 miles. Charging capabilities remain impressive, with the facelifted Model Y leveraging Tesla’s V3 Supercharger network with a peak charging input of up to 250 kW.
Pricing and Availability
The 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper” is slated for deliveries in the U.S. starting March 2025. The Launch Series Long Range AWD version is priced at $59,990, excluding tax credits, taxes, and fees. Pricing details for other variants are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Tesla has already begun showcasing the new Model Y “Project Juniper” in the U.S., generating excitement ahead of its official launch.
Model Y “Project Juniper” in China
In China, Tesla is offering the new Model Y “Project Juniper” in a Launch Series special edition, priced at CNY 263,500 (USD 35,940) for the Standard Range RWD and CNY 303,500 (USD 41,396) for the Long Range AWD variant. Deliveries in China are also planned to commence in March 2025. Early reports indicate strong demand, with over 70,000 orders placed within the first five days of launch in China. Furthermore, reports suggest Tesla is developing a longer wheelbase, six-seater version of the Model Y “Project Juniper” for the Chinese market, with deliveries anticipated in late 2025.
TopElectricSUV’s Verdict
As the best-selling EV in America, the Tesla Model Y is a pivotal vehicle in the electric transition. Its blend of efficiency, performance, practicality, and cutting-edge technology is undeniable. The “Project Juniper” refresh elevates the Model Y even further, making it an even more compelling choice in the competitive electric SUV market.
Also See: 2025 Tesla Model Y: 17 Confirmed Changes/Improvements that you should know about
2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper” FAQs
When will the 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper” be released?
The new Model Y “Project Juniper” will begin reaching U.S. customers in March 2025.
What is the expected price of the 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper”?
The starting price for the refreshed Model Y is anticipated to be around USD 45,000.
Who are the main competitors of the 2025 Tesla Model Y “Project Juniper”?
Key rivals include the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Honda Prologue, Chevy Blazer EV, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6.
Featured Image Source: Tesla
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