As the Model 3 is updated, speculation about a future Model Y is increasing.

The Model Y is the best-selling electric vehicle in the United States—and one of the most widely sold cars in U.S. metropolitan areas like Los Angeles—and one of the best-selling cars in the world. It was introduced in 2019.

Speculation is fueled by a Reddit post that appeared to show a “new” Model Y in black wrap, as well as more recent “leaks” that allegedly show a new Model Y with a light bar on the rear.

But it may be too early to assume that a Model Y redesign is imminent. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said in June, “There will be no Model Y redesign this year.” And he added, “I would note that Tesla is continually improving its cars, so even a car that is 6 months newer is going to be a little better.”

But the Model Y needs a refresh, says Edmunds: “Tesla now delivers vehicle volumes like an established automaker, and established automakers know that a new lineup keeps customers coming back,” Joseph Yoon, Edmunds’ consumer insights analyst, told me in an email. “The Model Y’s popularity is undeniable, but as more automakers launch comparable electric vehicles, it only makes sense for Tesla to refresh it with the same updates it unveiled for the Model 3,” he said.

The following conclusions can be drawn from the Model 3 update at the end of 2023: The Model 3 update likely provides clues about the Model Y, which could launch in 2025.

• Perfomance: The Model 3 Performance has more horsepower (up to 510 hp) and can do 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds.
• Front: The front end features a slimmer hood (without a dent) and flat headlights for better aerodynamics.
• Drive: “Frequency response dampers” that ensure a quieter ride in the revised Model 3.
• Tires: Improved tires and wheels for greater range and less noise.
• Seating: Ventilated seats.
• Cabin: A quieter cabin thanks to 360-degree acoustic glass, i.e. all windows are now made of acoustic glass (double glazing), not just the windshield and front side windows.
• Screen: A rear window for the passengers.
• Stemless: Removal of the steering wheel levers and relocation of the physical controls to thumb buttons on the steering wheel
• Steering: Additional software-based (display-based) controls, such as a gear selector switch integrated into the touchscreen.
• Sound: Improved sound system.
• Hardware 4 (HW4): It is expected to include the latest Hardware 4, which brings improvements in processing power and sensor capabilities for autopilot and FSD.

And other possible upgrades not inspired by the Model 3 update:

• Rear: Updated taillights and bumpers, possibly with addition of a light bar.
• Cameras: An additional camera could be integrated into the front bumper for improved autopilot and FSD functions – but don’t get your hopes up too much.
• Battery: possibly a larger battery (scattered rumors point to a massive 95 kWh battery) that could significantly increase range. Currently, the largest battery in the Model Y is a 75 kWh battery. And of course, Tesla is constantly improving its battery technology, so it’s almost guaranteed that the new battery technology in the Model Y Juniper will be more efficient = more miles per kilowatt hour (kWh).