Tesla's popular Model Y just became much more affordable. The electric carmaker has cut the price of the new Long Range All-Wheel Drive version by $11,000, now starting at $50,380. This significant reduction comes as the company has discontinued the Model Y Launch Series trim, leaving only the new variant available for customers.
The Long Range All-Wheel Drive variant, which is now the sole model in the lineup, boasts a starting price of $50,380, including destination fees. This price drop is a strategic move by Tesla as it seeks to maintain its competitive edge in the electric vehicle market amid slowing demand and increasing competition.
According to reports, the Full Self-Driving feature, previously included in the Launch Series, is now available as an $8,000 option. Buyers can also opt for a tow hitch, which is capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds, for an additional $1,000. If customers desire a color other than black, they should be prepared to pay an extra $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the shade.
The Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive variant comes with two wheel options: the base 19-inch crossflow wheels, which come with all-season tires and promise an EPA-estimated range of 327 miles, and 20-inch wheels that reduce the estimated range to 303 miles. The vehicle also boasts a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, which is half a second slower than the Launch Series trim.
Despite the price decrease, the Model Y still qualifies for America's $7,500 federal tax credit, effectively bringing the starting MSRP down to $42,880 for eligible buyers. This financial incentive could further stimulate interest in the Model Y, which was once the best-selling vehicle globally.
In recent months, Tesla has faced challenges, including a backlash against CEO Elon Musk's political moves, which have contributed to a sales slump and a decline in stock prices. As a result, the company has previously slashed prices to boost sales volume, a strategy that has sometimes upset current owners who see the value of their vehicles decline.
In addition to the price cut, Tesla has also introduced significant updates for the 2025 Model Y, referred to as the Model Y Juniper. This updated model features a revamped interior design, enhanced technology, and improvements in performance and efficiency.
The Model Y Juniper is currently listed at $48,990 for the Long Range All-Wheel Drive trim. Tesla discontinued the Launch Edition series, which was initially priced around $60,000, and is now focusing solely on the Long Range AWD variant.
For context, the previous 2024 Model Y was priced at $47,990, just $1,000 less than the new Juniper model. This pricing strategy reflects Tesla's ongoing efforts to remain competitive in the electric SUV market.
The 2025 Model Y Juniper is designed with passenger comfort in mind, offering 41 inches of headroom in the front and 39.4 inches in the rear, along with 41.9 inches of legroom in the front and 40.5 inches in the rear. The front trunk provides 4.1 cubic feet of storage, while the trunk offers 33.1 cubic feet of space. When the second-row seats are folded down, the maximum cargo capacity reaches 71.4 cubic feet.
Standard features on the Model Y Juniper include a 15.4-inch center multimedia touchscreen and an additional 8-inch touchscreen for rear passengers. These upgrades enhance connectivity and entertainment options, allowing for faster download speeds and clearer phone calls.
Driving aids such as full self-driving capabilities, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, active emergency braking, and lane departure avoidance are also included, utilizing multiple exterior cameras for enhanced safety and performance.
Externally, the Model Y Juniper has undergone a redesign, with updates to the front bumper, taillights, and overall shape, making it more aerodynamic. Tesla claims that the redesigned body castings have reduced the number of parts from seventy to one, which minimizes gaps and enhances the vehicle's performance.
Performance-wise, the Long Range AWD variant is projected to achieve a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 125 mph. Its estimated driving range is 327 miles, and when plugged into a Tesla supercharger, it can add 169 miles of range in just 15 minutes.
The 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper is poised to be a highly sought-after electric SUV, continuing its trend of strong sales in the competitive automotive market. With its combination of affordability, cutting-edge technology, and spacious design, the Model Y Juniper is likely to appeal to a wide range of consumers looking for an electric vehicle that meets their needs.
As the electric vehicle market evolves, Tesla's ability to adapt to consumer demands while maintaining its innovative edge will be crucial in determining the future success of the Model Y and the brand as a whole.
