The updated Tesla Model Y lineup is now available for purchase in the UK, with a reduced starting price of £44,990 for the electric SUV.
At this entry-level price, buyers receive the Rear-Wheel Drive variant, which offers a range of 311 miles and is powered by a single 275bhp motor, enabling it to accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds.
For £48,990, the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive variant extends the range to 387 miles. It also features a more powerful 304bhp motor, trimming the 0-60mph time to 5.4 seconds.
The fastest option, the Long Range All-Wheel Drive, includes an additional front-axle motor that increases power by 66bhp, reducing the 0-60mph sprint to 4.8 seconds. However, this configuration slightly compromises range, delivering 23 miles less than its Rear-Wheel Drive counterpart.
Deliveries for these new trims are expected to begin in June, following the £60,990 Launch Series model by two months.
The Launch Series is based on the Long Range All-Wheel Drive but features an exclusive Acceleration Boost mode, allowing it to reach 60mph in just 4.1 seconds. Additionally, it boasts a synthetic suede interior, unique Launch Series badging, and puddle lights.
Despite previous popularity in the UK, Tesla has no immediate plans to reintroduce a seven-seat version of the Model Y.
Internally codenamed Project Juniper, the refreshed Model Y debuts as Tesla faces fierce competition across global markets. The updates closely align with those seen in last year’s Model 3 facelift, focusing on improved efficiency, refinement, and build quality.
A notable difference from the Model 3 is that Tesla has opted to retain traditional stalk-mounted indicator controls for the Model Y, as opposed to the steering wheel-based controls introduced in the updated Model 3.
A Fresh Look and Enhanced Performance
The world’s best-selling electric vehicle now features a redesigned exterior, distinguishing it from its predecessor with wraparound light bars at both the front and rear, along with subtly reshaped bumpers.
As Tesla’s top-performing model, the Model Y is critical to the company’s efforts to rebound from a recent dip in sales.
Having gone nearly five years without a major update, the Model Y had lost some of its previous performance and usability advantages over competitors. Initially, its 331-mile maximum range was a key selling point, but rivals eventually caught up with lower-cost alternatives. The introduction of the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive variant last year, boasting 373 miles of range, helped bridge the gap but still fell short of the Peugeot e-3008’s 434-mile offering.
Tesla states that the new design was developed to “maximize efficiency, using every kilowatt-hour more effectively.” Updates to the suspension, wheels, and tires are also said to contribute to this goal.
The vehicle’s aerodynamic performance has improved, with a drag coefficient reduction from 0.23 to 0.22, helping to increase range and minimize wind noise.
Additionally, the revised Model Y has grown slightly, measuring 4797mm in length—47mm longer than the previous version—while its width remains nearly unchanged at 1624mm.
Interior and Technology Enhancements
Inside, the Model Y receives subtle material and technology updates rather than a complete overhaul, in line with changes made to the Model 3.
A new rear touchscreen has been introduced, and the back seats can now fold electronically. The front seats are also ventilated and can be upholstered in new fabrics, which Tesla claims provide a sensation akin to “floating in space.”
All primary vehicle controls are integrated into the 15.4-inch dashboard-mounted touchscreen, which runs updated software designed to enhance responsiveness and overall performance.
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