Tesla Model Y Juniper: Takeaways from Seeing It Up Close

With my somewhat impromptu decision to put down a deposit on the Tesla Model Y Juniper, I decided to make the 40+ minute drive to the Langley Tesla showroom to see it first hand.

This location is one of only two in Canada currently displaying the new Model Y demo, making it a prime spot for those in the Vancouver lower mainland area eager to check out the Model Y refresh Canada has been buzzing about.

This is my experience from seeing the Tesla Model Y Juniper in person and whether it swayed my decision to go ahead with the purchase—or forfeit my $250 deposit.

tesla model y juniper First Impressions

Upon walking up to the Model Y Juniper, my initial reaction was that it looked slightly larger in person. This was confirmed as I examined the car more closely—storage areas like the center console and trunk appeared deeper, providing more utility and storage space, which is always welcomed.

Another aspect that stood out was the quicksilver exterior color. Initially, I wasn’t convinced about this premium option, but after seeing it in person, I may switch my order from Stealth Grey, which is significantly darker than the Midnight Silver Metallic I loved in my 2020 Model Y.

There was a 2025 Model Y in Stealth Grey (not a refresh version) on display, which almost appears black in certain lighting, and didn’t appeal to me as much in person.

The showroom itself was relatively empty, which made it easier to take my time exploring the Model Y Juniper features. I remember my visit for the Cybertruck reveal being significantly busier, so it was nice to have some breathing room to assess the car properly.

Model Y Juniper Features: What’s New?

As widely reported, the Model Y refresh brings several subtle yet meaningful changes. Here are some highlights:

• Exterior Changes
  • New front bumper design with integrated camera
  • Redesigned front and rear lights, including a continuous light bar on the back
  • Improved side mirrors for better efficiency and reduction in noise
  • Better sunroof insulation, reducing cabin heat transfer by up to 25%
• Interior Upgrades
  • Borrowed elements from the Model 3 Highland, including new seats
  • Rear-seat video display, supporting Bluetooth streaming from personal devices
  • Ventilated front seats, a much-needed upgrade for summer comfort
  • Carpeted door pockets to help reduce cabin noise
  • Carpeted trunk lining, replacing the previous hard plastic that was prone to scuffing
  • Customizable ambient light bar

One feature I was particularly excited about is the improved suspension. While I couldn’t test this in the showroom, reports suggest a much smoother ride—one of my biggest complaints about the previous Model Y. Given the rough roads in my area, this is a major factor in my purchase decision.

Another aspect that stood out is the 19-inch wheels. While they looked good with the aero covers on, they appeared less appealing without them. This isn’t new—my 2022 Model Y had a similar issue, which is why I upgraded my wheel covers shortly after purchase.

I’m still undecided on the wheels—I’m considering upgrading to the 20-inch wheels and trying to sell or swap them out for the 19-inch set. Curious if anyone has had success doing this in the past. Let me know in the comments if so!

What’s Included in The Launch Edition?

The new Model Y demo on display at the Langley showroom was the Launch edition. Besides the launch badge and lettering inside, this first run Model Y refresh comes fully kitted out and includes:

• Full Self Driving
• Choice of paint colors
• Chose of wheels (19″ vs. 20″)
• Acceleration boost
• Launch edition logo puddle lights

What’s Not Included?

Despite some exciting new features, I was disappointed to learn that certain accessories I had assumed were included in the Tesla Model Y Juniper launch edition are not.

During my online order, I was led to believe that items like charging adapters, a second mobile charger, floor mats, a roof rack, and a center console tray were bundled with the purchase. However, after speaking to the showroom staff, I was informed that these are not included.

Interestingly, a Tesla representative had previously confirmed via text that these items would be provided, so I may push back on this discrepancy.

Comparing to My 2022 Model Y

Sitting inside the Model Y Juniper, I was immediately reminded of my current 2022 Model Y. The differences, though subtle, made a significant impact. The ventilated seats are a game-changer, as my current seats often feel too warm in the summer, so much so that I have added an after market ventilated seat cover.

Speaking of heat, the glass roof has also been improved meaning there may not be a need to add a Tesla Model Y sun shade in this version.

Next, the carpeted door pockets and trunk lining add a more premium feel, addressing some of the durability and sound issues I’ve had with my current Model Y’s interior. These will dampen noise and protect the scuff mark prone high-traffic areas.

Again, these have been remedied by adding accessories to protect my Model Y. However, it is always nice to see these issues being addressed.

Another major consideration for me is ride quality. My 2020 Model Y has always been a bit rough, especially on city roads and highways with uneven pavement. Tesla has claimed the Model Y Juniper has improved suspension, but without taking it for a test drive, I couldn’t confirm this firsthand.

Jay Leno did a great walk through of all the changes with Tesla engineers, and the ride quality improvements were talked about at lengths. You can check that video out below:

Hardware Upgrades

The Model Y Juniper comes equipped with Hardware 4 for Full Self-Driving (FSD), which is said to be significantly better than the Hardware 3 system in my 2020 Model Y. There is also a new camera on the front bumper.

The new Model Y demo is for display only and not available for test drives at this point. The sales rep offered me the chance to try a different vehicle with HW4 to experience its improvements, but I was short on time. Still, knowing that the newest hardware is included adds some peace of mind for future upgrades.

The Purchase Decision: Should I Buy It?

After seeing the Tesla Model Y Juniper up close, I can confidently say that it looks much better in person, particularly in quicksilver. If Tesla’s Glacier Blue (available in China) were an option, I’d be even more inclined to go with that.

The updated interior is undeniably a step up from the previous model, making the cabin feel more refined and comfortable. The addition of ventilated seats and a rear entertainment screen makes this refresh feel more premium.

However, Tesla’s history of price fluctuations and early adopter disadvantages gives me pause—just look at the $23,000 price drop on the Cybertruck in Canada. And that’s not even talking about the history of build quality Tesla has with early builds.

Another aspect in my decision is timing. I am hoping to head to Yellowknife to be one of the first to try out the new charging infrastructure there, which is slated to open at the end of March. Deliveries start in March, and I may be lower on the list.

I would also want to add paint protection film before going to minimize rock chips on that long trip. If you’re considering a purchase, it’s worth weighing the improvements against Tesla’s track record of sudden price adjustments.

New Model Y demo: Worth the Upgrade?

The Model Y Juniper refresh is a step in the right direction, but is it worth upgrading if you already own a Model Y? If you’re coming from a 2020-2022 Model Y, the differences are noticeable but not groundbreaking. However, for those considering their first Tesla, this is undoubtedly the best version of the Model Y to date.

For me, the biggest selling points are the improved suspension, modern interior, and Hardware 4 for FSD. On the downside, paying a premium for the Launch edition with out making the most of the add ons and Tesla’s tendency to drop prices makes me hesitate.

Would I recommend it? If you don’t mind paying a premium for the latest tech and want an improved driving experience, the Model Y Juniper is worth it. But if you’re budget-conscious and can wait, it might be wise to hold off for a potential price drop. There are some great deals on current inventory as well.

What do you think? Should I go ahead with my Tesla Model Y Juniper order, or wait for future updates? Let me know in the comments below.

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