The facelifted Tesla Model Y may wear a significantly different face to not only the current model, but also the recently facelifted Model 3.
Autospy has shared images of a prototype of the upcoming facelifted model, referred to as Juniper.
It appears to feature split-level lighting up front, an increasingly common design cue in the car industry.
While Tesla has split-level lighting on its Cybertruck, the facelifted Model Y has a more conventional version of this design element.
The tail lights more closely resemble those of the recent Highland facelift of the Model 3, though a previous spy shot has revealed what appears to be a new light bar connecting the tail light clusters.
The vehicle captured in these latest images is still wearing heavy camouflage front and rear, but we can also expect to see new front and rear bumper designs in addition to the restyled lighting.
We also expect new wheel designs, though this prototype features carryover footwear.
Only one interior photo has been leaked so far, showing what appears to be perforated leather or leatherette upholstery on the seats, suede-look trim on the door, and a thin strip of ambient lighting.
Last week, reports emerged from China that Shanghai production of the updated Model Y had been pulled forward to start this month, if initially only in low volumes.
However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has previously said the Juniper facelift won’t debut until 2025, despite earlier reports claiming it would debut before the end of this year.
It’s expected the Model Y will follow the Model 3 by ditching its traditional steering column stalks and adopting controversial steering wheel buttons.
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In the Model 3, additional changes included its gear selector being relocated to its touchscreen, the front seats gaining ventilation, and the addition of a rear climate control screen.
Current Model 3 and Model Y
Under the skin, the updated Model 3 also received revised suspension with new springs, dampers, and subframe mounting points designed to deliver a more comfortable ride.
The Tesla Model Y has remained Australia’s best-selling electric vehicle (EV), with 16,697 examples delivered between January and September 2024.
However, this is down on the 23,457 deliveries made in the same period last year, amid rising competition from other carmakers.
