Tesla’s highly anticipated 2025 Model Y Juniper facelift is beginning to take shape, as detailed spy shots from multiple continents reveal significant updates to both design and functionality. With production seemingly underway in the US, UK, and China, it’s clear that the Juniper refresh is rapidly approaching its official announcement.
Global Production and Release
The Model Y Juniper facelift has been spotted testing in several key locations, including near Tesla’s Palo Alto headquarters in the US, the UK, and Tesla’s Gigafactory in China. This widespread presence suggests that the official release could be just around the corner.
European Production: According to sources from Tesla’s Berlin Gigafactory, production of the 2025 Model Y Juniper for the European market will begin soon. Staff has reportedly been called in for an operational meeting ahead of the launch.
Main Production Hub: While the Berlin factory will handle European demand, Tesla’s Giga Shanghai factory is expected to be the primary production center, with reports indicating the plant is currently assembling up to 600 Model Y Juniper units per day after beginning trial production last October.
Key Design and Feature Updates
Tesla’s upcoming Model Y Juniper facelift promises to bring a number of design changes, some of which are already evident in leaked images. The most notable updates include:
A standout feature of the Juniper facelift is the integration of turn signals into the vehicle’s front light bar, a design element not previously seen in the current Model Y. This sleek and minimalistic approach is in line with Tesla’s tendency to streamline exterior features for a cleaner look.
Steering Wheel and Seat Changes:
Steering Wheel: The refreshed Model Y is expected to feature a more angular, “squircle” steering wheel, resembling the yoke-style design seen on the Cybertruck. It’s still unclear whether Tesla will offer a traditional round steering wheel option, but the new design is expected to include turn signal buttons, continuing the stalkless interior trend first introduced with the Model 3 Highland facelift. Ambient lighting will also be part of the updated steering wheel design.
Seats: Leaked images show that the seat headrests are shaped differently compared to the current Model Y, with edgier stitching that suggests a more aggressive and streamlined design. This change could be in line with the exterior refresh, which is rumored to adopt a more dynamic, angular look similar to the 2023 Highland facelift. Additionally, the Juniper refresh is expected to feature the same vented seats that were introduced in the Highland version of the Model 3.
Wheel Options:
While the refresh in the spy shots is outfitted with the familiar 20-inch wheels, it’s possible that more rim and tire options will be available when the Model Y Juniper officially launches later this month.
Performance and Charging Upgrades
Aside from cosmetic changes, the 2025 Model Y Juniper facelift is expected to feature several performance enhancements, including:
Increased Range: With new, more efficient motors and a larger battery, the Juniper refresh could potentially exceed 400 miles on a single charge, making it a compelling option for long-distance travel.
Faster Charging: The Model Y Juniper is expected to benefit from faster charging speeds, thanks to the integration of the 800V powertrain and 48V low-voltage architecture that Tesla originally developed for the Cybertruck. This upgrade will make the vehicle compatible with Tesla’s upcoming V4 Superchargers, capable of delivering up to 500 kW, which are expected to be rolled out later this year.
What to Expect
With the official announcement of the Model Y Juniper facelift expected soon, Tesla fans and potential buyers can look forward to a sleeker, more efficient vehicle with several key updates to both design and performance. From the new integrated turn signals and streamlined seats to the faster charging capabilities and enhanced range, the Juniper refresh is shaping up to be a significant upgrade over the current Model Y. Stay tuned for more details as the official launch date draws closer.
