The new Tesla Model Y 2025 aka Juniper was announced recently and now we finally get to see the new upgraded fully electric SUV in the flesh. This is the “upgraded” version of the popular Tesla Model Y which is claimed to be the world’s best selling vehicle last year.
Similar to the new Model 3 (aka Highland), the new EV is still based on the same platform but Tesla has given it significant updates with a refreshed exterior, improved aerodynamics and a couple of extra features.
The Tesla Model Y which you see here is the RHD (Right-Hand-Drive) version for our region and it has made its official regional debut at Ion Orchard in Singapore. The displayed model is the AWD LR model in Ultra Red along with the optional 20″ wheels (extra RM10,000) and black and white interior (extra RM5,000).
To recap, here’s the starting price for the new Tesla Model Y in Malaysia which is now available for order online. Deliveries in Malaysia is expected to start in April 2025.
- Tesla Model Y RWD – RM195,450
- Tesla Model Y LR AWD – RM242,450
This time, the new Model Y comes with Stealth Grey by default, which was previously a RM7,500 option. You can also customise your Model Y to a different colour and here’s the extra cost:
- White – RM5,000
- Glacier Blue – RM7,500
- Quicksilver – RM11,000
- Ultra Red – RM11,000
The new Tesla Model Y boasts a drag coefficient of 0.22Cd which is an improvement over the previous Model Y’s 0.23Cd. On paper the numbers seems small but it is remarkable that a large 5-seater SUV can be as aerodynamic as the BYD Seal and the Tesla Model 3.
As a comparison, the Xpeng G6 has a drag coefficient rating of 0.248Cd.
The Model Y RWD has a WLTP-rated range up to 466km, which is 11km more than the previous version. It can do 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds which is a second quicker as well.
For the Long Range AWD version, it has up to 551km WLTP-rated range, which is 18km more than than previous LR AWD. 0-100km/h is done in 4.3 seconds, which is enabled by the Acceleration Boost that’s included for free with the Launch series.
The new Model Y has a top speed of 201km/h which is lower than the previous version’s 217km/h.
The new Model Y features a light bar that’s similar to the Tesla Cybertruck. Interestingly, there is no T logo on the bonnet which gives it a cleaner look. The frunk under the bonnet is still one of the largest for an EV. While the bonnet isn’t powered, Tesla has added a drain plug so you could use this as an ice box to store your drinks or other perishables. Another new inclusion is a front camera that sits below the number plate holder.
The interior mostly carriers over the latest upgrades found on the upgrades Model 3 which includes the seats with ventilated feature, ambient lighting, 8” display for the rear and a tweaked dashboard design.
If you love stalks, you’ll be happy to know that Tesla has retained the indicator stalks which are placed on the left side of the steering column. However, there’s no gear selector stalk, so you’ll need to rely on swipe gestures on the display to switch between P-R-N-D. The backup gear selector buttons can be found on the roof, similar to the current upgrades Model 3.
According to Tesla, they have improved the ride with an updated suspension, new tyres and wheels. For a quieter ride, all windows are using double-glazed glass, while the glass roof also gets a new coating for better heat rejection.
The Tesla Model Y has one of the largest cargo capacity in its class and they have managed to add more capacity with a deeper secondary underfloor storage in the boot.
Another welcomed update is the new powered second row backrest. With a simple flick of the switch, you can easily fold down and fold up the rear seats from the boot itself.
Overall, the new Tesla Model Y is a solid offering which starts from under RM200,000. It looks more modern, offers better efficiency and range, and it gets a couple of new features that are useful for families.
Would you get this over the BYD Sealion 7 or the Xpeng G6? Let us know in the comments.
