Tesla Model Y History & Model Overview

Ever wondered how an electric crossover became one of the world's best-selling vehicles? Introduced in March 2019 and launched in 2020, the Model Y shares around 70–75% of its parts with the Model 3, but offers a significantly different format. It's essentially Tesla's answer to the question: "What if we took everything that made the Model 3 successful and gave it an SUV body?".

Coming up, we'll learn:

• About the history and specifications of the Tesla Model Y.
  
• The differences between various Tesla Model Y trims.
  
• If the Tesla Model Y Juniper is worth the wait.
  
• If the Tesla Model Y is reliable.
  
• How to improve upon the great base provided by the Tesla Model Y.

Enjoy the reading!

A brief history of the Tesla Model Y

The idea for the Model Y was born in 2013, when Tesla first trademarked the name. Early teasers even hinted at it potentially featuring those distinctive "falcon wing" doors from the Model X, but this part of the concept didn’t ultimately make it to production.

Tesla Model Y was then officially unveiled in March 2019 and its production began in January 2020 at the Fremont Factory in California, with the first deliveries starting in March 2020. Initially, Tesla offered Long Range AWD and Performance variants, with the Standard Range version arriving later after some back-and-forth about whether its range was acceptable.

The Model Y quickly became a sales hit. In 2023, Tesla Model Y became the best-selling vehicle worldwide. But here's where it gets really impressive: the Model Y outsold even the Toyota Corolla to become the world's best-selling car and the first EV to top that list. Since launch, its production has been expanded to factories in Shanghai and Berlin, to better fulfill the demand of the local markets and reduce wait times for the customers. 

Tesla Model Y variants & specifications

As of December 2025, the current Model Y lineup delivers performance that would make many sports cars jealous, packaged in a family-friendly crossover body. Each variant offers a different balance of range, power, and features, though certain characteristics remain consistent across the lineup – like the spacious interior and that massive 15-inch touchscreen.

In early 2025, Tesla refreshed the Model Y. The car received exterior updates inspired by the Tesla Cybertruck (light signature front and back), improved upholstery, higher-quality sound-deadening materials, and a glass roof with better heat insulation. This "Juniper" refresh brought the Model Y more in line with the updated Model 3 Highland, but we'll get to that later.

For now, let’s get back to the…

Current Tesla Model Y trims

…Starting with the lowest available trim. Of course, “the lowest” does not mean barebones and still comes packed with a bunch of attractive features – it’s just the most reasonably priced entry point to the entire trim range. Also, please note that all the information below is current as of December 15, 2025 and might be subject to change. 

• Tesla Model Y Standard – RWD

The Model Y lineup starts with the Standard trim priced at $39,990 MSRP. It has a single electric motor at the rear axle (RWD) and offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 321 miles. While Tesla doesn’t specify the exact power or torque figures for this vehicle online, 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque are the most likely guesses. All we know is that they claim it should do 0–60 mph in a brisk 6.8 seconds – not supercar territory, but plenty quick for merging and passing.

Tesla Model Y Standard weighs 4,209 lbs (1,909 kg) and has a battery capacity of 60 kWh that is supposed to be able to regain 160 miles of range in 15 minutes on a Supercharger. Interestingly, at this moment it’s the only Model Y trim that comes with the Standard Sound System, which has only 7 speakers and 1 amplifier. 

• Tesla Model Y Premium – RWD and AWD

A $5,000 step up gets you the Tesla Model Y Premium RWD at $44,990 MSRP, with an all-wheel drive (AWD) model available for just another $3,000 extra at $48,990 MSRP. The Premium RWD trim replaced the old “Long Range RWD” one, so it’s only natural that it offers an EPA-estimated range of 357 miles, 36 miles more than the Standard trim. Mostly thanks to an increased 81 kWh battery capacity. It’s also faster, as it achieves a 0–60 of 5.4 seconds. 

The official power specifications for the RWD version are unknown, but the Premium AWD Model Y with an additional electric motor produces 384 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. In this instance, the range drops to 327 miles though, but so does the 0–60 time, to 4.6 seconds. Model Y Premium AWD is also slightly heavier than the lower trim, coming at 4,416 lbs (2,003 kg). 

Both Premium versions get the improved Premium audio option that we also covered in our Tesla Model Y Sound System Overview.

• Tesla Model Y Performance – AWD

At the top of the range sits the Performance variant, priced at $57,490 MSRP. This one produces 456 hp and 497 lb-ft of torque from its dual-motor setup. It accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, but its range comes in at only 306 miles, lowest out of all the Tesla Model Y trims. But let’s be clear: this is the version for those who prioritize speed over range, as it also features sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and high-performance tires.

It weighs the same as the Premium AWD trim and has the same battery capacity as both the other long range variants. Supercharging it for 15 minutes allows its user to regain around 144 miles of range. 

Here's a quick comparison table of all the currently available Tesla Model Y trims. 

Parameter/Trim	Standard (RWD)	Premium (RWD)	Premium (AWD)	Performance (AWD)
Power	295 hp	n/d	384 hp	456 hp
Torque	310 lb-ft	n/d	375 lb-ft	497 lb-ft
Drivetrain	Single motor RWD	Single motor RWD	Dual motor AWD	Dual motor AWD
0–60 mph	6.8 seconds	5.4 seconds	4.6 seconds	3.3 seconds
EPA-estimated range	321 miles	357 miles	327 miles	306 miles
Starting Price	$39,990	$44,990	$48,990	$57,490

Note: the prices above exclude federal tax credits or state/local EV incentives.

Tesla Model Y Juniper – What is it?

Tesla's approach to model updates makes more sense when you understand their code names. "Juniper" is the internal designation for the 2025 Model Y refresh, similar to how "Highland" referred to the Tesla Model 3 update.

Introduced in 2019, the Tesla Model Y became the best-selling car of the world in 2023, coming in at close second for 2024. In early 2025, it got a comprehensive facelift that brought significant improvements without completely changing the platform.

What changed with the Juniper’s introduction?

1. Exterior redesign – Model Y received a full-width light bars front and rear, similar to those found in the Tesla Cybertruck. The corner-mounted sections of the strips also integrate the turn signal lamps, while the headlights are placed lower. New 19-inch aerodynamic wheels come as standard, with optional 20-inch sets available.
2. Interior improvements – Tesla Model Y boasts a 20% quieter interior than its predecessor. This addresses one of the biggest complaints about earlier Model Y, that is, excessive road and wind noise. Tesla also added an 8-inch rear touchscreen for rear passengers, offering most features from the main display. Similar to Model 3’s Highlander refresh, Juniper also moved indicator controls onto steering wheel buttons, moving away from the traditional stalks. 
3. Performance – the Juniper refresh Tesla Model Y cars also bring retuned suspension and slight improvements in efficiency, mainly due to aerodynamic changes in the front bumper and wheel covers.

All these improvements make it seem like Juniper was worth waiting for. 

Not quite like a gas car – Tesla Model Y reliability & maintenance

Most Teslas are pretty reliable vehicles overall, with not too many electrical problems and their batteries lasting a long time. One important thing to note though is that many users have reported build quality issues over time, regardless of the model – 3, Y, S, or X. Nothing severe that would directly affect your safety, but stuff that can get pretty annoying after a while. We’re talking about rattling interior trim, panels or parts coming off (e.g., the sun visor), etc. 

There are also occasional reports of electronic glitches or bugs happening; however, the Tesla Model Y does not stand out compared to other modern, similarly-equipped cars.

Maintenance tips

Despite reliability concerns, all EVs require significantly less maintenance than gas cars. There is no oil to be changed, their drivetrains are much simpler, and they need fewer brake discs or pads replacements, thanks to the regenerative braking.

For the regular Tesla Model Y maintenance, the manufacturer recommends:

• Tire rotations – every 6,250 miles or if tread depth difference between two of the tires is 2/32 inches or greater.
• Brake fluid testing or replacement – every 4 years.
• Cabin air filter replacement – every 2 years.
• Brake caliper cleaning and lubrication – every 12 months or 12,500 miles.

Other than these, you should be good to go.

Make your Tesla Model Y truly yours! Top 5 Tesla mods

If you’re reading this, you probably already own a Model Y – it’s a great car, but what if you find some features lacking? Say, you’d like to have some physical controls for the infotainment system and A/C? Or maybe you’d want the audio to sound even better than it does stock? 

Luckily, there are some simple plug-and-play upgrades available to do all that!

1. Tesla Yoke Replacement Upgrade for Model Y

Want to transform your Model Y's interior into something straight out of a sci-fi movie? The Tesla Yoke Replacement Upgrade delivers that spacecraft cockpit aesthetic while providing an unobstructed gauge view.

Key features:

• Futuristic design inspired by Tesla Model S and X optional yoke.
• Simple plug-and-play installation.
• Available in Black Nappa Leather, White Nappa Leather, and Black Synthetic Suede.
• Compatible with heated steering option.

Fair warning: the yoke's shape takes some getting used to, especially for parking maneuvers. But for those wanting maximum style points, it's hard to beat.

2. Tesla Screen Protector for Model Y

That massive 15-inch touchscreen is the command center for your entire vehicle. Protect it at all costs… with a Tesla Model Y screen protector made of 9H tempered glass for maximum scratch resistance.

Key features:

• Astonishingly easy installation thanks to included plastic fitment guides.
• Glossy finish maintains original screen clarity.
• Screen cleaning wipes included.
• Compatible with Tesla Model Y (2020+).

Note: this protector will NOT fit the Tesla Highland trim, so check your model year before ordering.

3. Physical Tesla Buttons Retrofit

The touchscreen-everything trend isn't for everyone (we aren’t keen on it either). If you prefer tactile controls you can operate without taking your eyes off the road, the Physical Tesla Buttons Retrofit is your solution.

Key features:

• Introduces multifunctional physical buttons to the dashboard.
• Provides intuitive control of the infotainment system, A/C, and more.
• Plug-and-play installation with included harness.
• Available for both Tesla Model 3 (including Highland) and Model Y.

No more menu diving at highway speeds to adjust the climate control. Just reach down and press a button like in the good old days.

4. Tesla Auto-Presenting Door Handles Retrofit for Model Y

Ever approached your Model Y with an armful of groceries, wishing the door handles would just... appear? The Tesla Auto-Presenting Door Handles Retrofit makes it happen.

Key features:

• The motorized function extends handles automatically.
• Built-in customizable LEDs for improved nighttime visibility.
• Pairs with the phone's Bluetooth – activates when you approach.
• All-black replacement for factory chrome handles.
• Fits without permanent modifications.

Combines convenience with style, replacing the chrome handles with sleek black units while adding functionality Tesla should've included from the factory.

5. Alpha One Tesla Model Y Sound System Amplifier Upgrade

Tesla's factory sound system is pretty good (at least the Premium option), but there's significant room for improvement – especially regarding amplifier power and bass response. Taking over a decade of BMW audio experience, we developed the Alpha One Amplifier specifically for Tesla vehicles.

Key features:

• Customizable tune perfectly matched to your Tesla's interior acoustics.
• Augmented bass processing digitally expands bass capabilities.
• Hefty 840 W RMS and 1680 W MAX power output.
• Simple plug-and-play installation.
• 2-year warranty and individual support from experienced Audio Engineers.
• Spare clips included for trim reassembly.

Unlike generic aftermarket amplifiers, the Alpha One is designed specifically for Tesla's unique audio setup. Combined with our DSP tuning expertise, you'll get a personalized musical experience that makes the factory sound system feel like a cheap smartphone speaker.

Is the Tesla Model Y worth it?

The Model Y has evolved from Tesla's ambitious crossover experiment into the world's best-selling vehicle. That's not hyperbole – in the first quarter of 2023, the Model Y outsold the Toyota Corolla to become the world's best-selling car.

And it isn’t surprising: the Model Y delivers on its core promise of making electric driving practical and accessible. The acceleration is addictive, the range is more than adequate for most needs, and the Supercharger network removes range anxiety for longer road trips.

However, if you prefer lower vehicles, you might want to consider its sibling, the Tesla Model 3.