Key Takeaways
- Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirms that a Model Y update won’t arrive in 2024.
- Rumors have suggested a facelifted version would debut this year, following the Model 3 refresh.
- An update is needed to keep Model Y competitive, especially in the face of new challengers from China.
The Tesla Model Y has been around for four years, and apart from software updates (and a minor upgrade in 2023), it has soldiered on unchanged since 2020. And it’s not getting an update anytime soon. Company CEO Elon Musk confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that “No Model Y ‘refresh’ is coming out this year.”
2024 Tesla Model Y
- Base MSRP
- $42,990
- Engine
- Electric
- Horsepower
- 295 hp
- Electric Range
- 320 miles (Long Range RWD)
Musk tweeted this in response to Pejjy, a popular Tesla fan, who said, “There [are] rumors going around that the $TSLA Model Y Refresh will be ready by next month… I’m having a hard time believing that.” Rumors regarding the Model Y update have been circulating for some time, and they picked up following the arrival of the refreshed Model 3.
2025 Reveal, Perhaps?
It’s been nearly a year since the new Model 3 debuted, but there have been no signs of a Model Y refresh so far. Previous reports claimed that the updated version, codenamed project Juniper, would arrive in 2024 with significant styling revisions and improved performance and range. However, seeing as Musk has denied the arrival of Juniper this year, customers will either have to wait or just bite the bullet and purchase the current model. This isn’t the first time Tesla has said the new model won’t be revealed this year.
Add CarBuzz to your Google News feed.
So, when will it arrive? Musk did not elaborate and stopped short of saying when the new model would break cover. However, we wouldn’t be surprised if it makes an appearance sometime in 2025. It took Tesla six years before the Model 3 got a facelift, so we may be in for an equally long wait with the Model Y. Then again, Tesla may want to ensure that the Model Y receives a comprehensive update as early as possible. Not only is it the automaker’s best-seller, but the Model Y was also the world’s best-selling car.
Expect Model 3-Inspired Revisions
Those in the market for a Model Y shouldn’t be disappointed by this news, though, with Musk adding that Tesla constantly upgrades its cars: “I should note that Tesla continuously improves its cars, so even a car that is six months newer will be a little better.” We anticipate the updated Tesla Model Y will adopt the Model 3’s sleek new fascia and rear styling treatment, along with updated electric drivetrains and interiors.
The Biggest Threats Coming For Tesla’s Best-Selling Model Y
Tesla is the most successful EV maker by far, but new competition looms on the horizon.
While it’s a class leader in many aspects, the Model Y faces stiff competition from newcomers. This includes the updated Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, along with the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4 – and that’s just in America. In China, there are myriad domestic brands that threaten Model Y dominance. It remains to be seen when the facelifted model will arrive, but we hope it’s soon.
