The long-awaited Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh has finally been unveiled, offering significant updates to Tesla’s best-selling electric SUV. Currently, production is exclusive to China, with no ETA for availability in North America, leaving many prospective buyers waiting.
With exciting improvements in performance, comfort, and styling, the new Tesla Model Y brings a fresh take on EV innovation. Let’s dive into the Model Y Juniper features and whether upgrading makes sense.
UPDATE: Pre-Orders are Open in Canada
Well, that didn’t take long.
Pre-order for the “Launch” addition of the Tesla Model Y Juniper are now open in Canada. Disapointingly, range is listed at 503 KM for the special long range edition which is no where near what I was hoping.
Notably, the launch addition comes in just under $85,0000 which is steep and pre-tax. That said, the launch addition does include FSD ($11,000 value), Speed Boost ($2,000 value), and the tow package ($1,300 value). You can also add the wheels of your choice (up to $2,600 value), the colour of your choice (up to $2,600 value) and the interior of your choice (up to $1,300 value) so it works out better than a “fully loaded current Model Y.
Still, if you don’t want a colour upgrade and prefer the 19″ wheels (they are black whereas the 20″ are now silver) and prefer the black interior you are paying $6,500 more than the current Model Y and paying a premium for the “Launch” badges that come with the car. And, given that early run Tesla’s have had their share of issues, that may be concern for some.
Delivers are expected in March, which is much sooner than expected. A non-refundable deposite of $250 is required to secure a spot. Curious to hear the response on this, especially with the timing of the recent antics of Elon Musk. Let me know in the comments below if you are putting a deposit down!
Interior Updates in the Tesla Model Y Juniper
Premium Enhancements to the Cabin
The interior of the Tesla Model Y refresh addresses previous criticisms with:
- A refined steering wheel and tactile buttons.
- An updated center console offering better storage.
- A larger screen, with hope that it tilts like the Model S and Model X refreshes, enhancing functionality and driver convenience. Otherwise, its another swivel screen ad-on…
- Power-folding rear seats
- Adjustable ambient light strip
As someone who added wood trim and armrest covers to my current Tesla Model Y to elevate the aesthetics and protect the interior, I’m thrilled that these updates make the cabin feel much more premium out of the box.
Tesla’s commitment to improving the driving experience is evident in these thoughtful upgrades but, also, overdue and expected in a higher priced range ride.
Heated and Ventilated Seats
One standout addition is the ventilated front seats, a game-changer for tackling summer heat. Previously, I used aftermarket seat covers for cooling, so seeing this feature come standard is a major win. Alongside the sleeker seat design, this upgrade are likely to make long journeys, like my time covering all of Newfoundland, far more enjoyable.
Rear Passenger Entertainment
The 8-inch touchscreen for rear passengers adds another layer of convenience. Rear seat occupants can control climate settings or enjoy entertainment, making long drives or car camping even better.
For someone like me, who enjoys overnight trips in the Tesla, this upgrade is a welcome addition—especially since reaching the front screen while laid out on a mattress in the back is no easy task. This small but impactful feature truly enhances the usability of the rear cabin.
Exterior Styling of the Model Y Juniper
Subtle but Significant Changes
The Tesla Model Y Juniper features a Cybertruck/Cybercab-inspired front light bar and a sleek full-width rear light bar. While the front design isn’t my favorite—I prefer the updated front of the Model 3 Highland—the rear updates give the new Tesla Model Y a modern and premium edge. These changes also enhance aerodynamics, improving efficiency.
Adding to the visual appeal is the introduction of a new Glacier Blue color, which looks incredibly slick. However, as someone who owned a Midnight Silver Metallic Model Y, I find myself partial to the timeless elegance of this shade. It’s a tough choice between the new vibrancy and the classic look.
That said, the redesigned wheels and tires do complement the refreshed exterior, adding a sportier look to the overall design.
Ride Quality: Improved Comfort and Handling
Tesla has made suspension and steering adjustments to improve ride comfort. As someone who frequently drives on uneven roads, I’m excited about these upgrades. My current Model Y already showed significant improvements over my early run 2020 Model Y, but it’s still far from perfect.
A former Tesla engineer that I met on a flight mentioned that Tesla prioritized addressing backseat passenger sickness in China, and I’m optimistic these changes will deliver smoother handling for all passengers.
Better suspension will also be crucial for drivers who spend significant time in urban environments with inconsistent road conditions like me. The road I live on is incredibly uneven and I am reminded at just how bad the overall ride quality of the Model Y daily.
Range Improvements in the Model Y Juniper
The updated Model Y Juniper specs now show a WLTP-estimated range of 551 km for the Long Range AWD variant and 466 km for the Standard Range RWD variant, according to Tesla’s Hong Kong website. While these numbers still represent an improvement, the gains are less dramatic than I initially thought.
For comparison, my current Model Y has a WLTP range of approximately 520 km, meaning the added range is closer to 31 km for the Long Range variant, nothing to write home about.
Although the range improvement is modest, it still enhances practicality, particularly for road trips and remote destinations. This additional range could reduce the frequency of charging stops, making long journeys slightly more convenient. However, the marginal gain makes the decision to upgrade more nuanced, especially for those already content with the existing range.
How the Juniper Refresh Compares to Other EVs
Tesla Model Y vs Rivian R2
The Tesla Model Y refresh comes at an interesting time, as competitors like the Rivian R2 are gaining attention. While the Rivian R2 promises innovation, its shorter range makes the Model Y Juniper’s 551 km range even more compelling for practical usage.
For EV buyers prioritizing range and established charging infrastructure, the Model Y Juniper edges out its competitors. Tesla’s Supercharger network remains unmatched, offering unparalleled convenience for long-distance travel. Although the Supercharger network is opening up to other brands, you can’t beat the convience Tesla brings.
New Tesla Model Y Features Set It Apart
The Model Y Juniper features like improved ride quality, ventilated seats, power-reclining rear seats, and a rear entertainment screen make it a formidable choice in the EV market. These upgrades keep Tesla ahead of the competition while addressing common pain points from previous iterations. For families or individuals seeking a versatile and comfortable electric SUV, the refreshed Model Y is hard to beat.
My Personal Thoughts: Is It Time to Upgrade?
When the Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh was first rumored, I was eager to see what it would bring. However, the delay in its release allowed me to explore other options, leading to my deposit on the Rivian R2.
Despite my initial excitement, my enthusiasm for Tesla has waned slightly due to various factors, including Elon Musk’s public persona. That said, I can’t deny the enjoyment and reliability I’ve experienced with my Tesla Model Y. It has been a reliable and fun ride, driving it across North American and beyond to Saint Pierre France.
The Juniper refresh has rekindled my interest. Between the interior updates, modest range improvement, and stylish new color options, I’m intrigued by what this version has to offer. However, the resale value of EVs and the pricing of the Juniper refresh will heavily influence my decision.
If the price is right, I might consider upgrading—especially with my planned trips to remote regions. It’s also worth noting that while the Rivian R2 excites me, its shorter range makes the Juniper refresh a more practical option for my needs.
Tesla’s ability to continuously refine its models without losing sight of customer feedback is what keeps it at the forefront of the EV market. While competitors are catching up, updates like the Juniper refresh ensure Tesla remains a compelling choice for many drivers.
What About You?
Are you excited about the Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh? Will you upgrade, or are you eyeing other options like the Rivian R2? If the upgrades aren’t for you, the current Model Y might see price drops, making it an excellent time to buy.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to use my referral code if you decide to purchase a Tesla. Happy driving!
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