Tesla unveils 2025 Model Y pricing and specs

Local pricing and specifications for the 2025 Model Y in Australia were released by Tesla on Saturday, lifting the veil off two variants while removing the “Launch Edition” from the market.

There is no sugarcoating the fact Tesla is suffering from significant brand reputation issues globally, and local sales have dipped significantly in recent months, dragging EV sales down due to the brand’s domination of the Australian EV market. Even with these challenges, the Model Y remains Australia’s top-selling electric car and merits a closer look.

2025 Model Y RWD and AWD specs

Not least is the fact that the entry-level Tesla Model Y RWD (rear-wheel-drive) variant has been ticketed with a starting price of $58,900. While the new Model Y RWD isn't the cheapest it's ever been, it sits just above the Kia EV5 (which we compared against the 2024 Model Y here) and Deepal S07 and offers solid value considering the substantial upgrades from its predecessor, plus access to Tesla’s 110-strong Supercharger network Australia-wide.

This entry-level RWD variant offers a WLTP driving range of up to 466km, up from 455km in 2024. It achieves a 0-100 km/h sprint in a respectable 5.9 seconds (a second quicker than its predecessor) and tops out at 201km/hr.

For drivers seeking more range and performance, the Long-Range AWD variant is priced from $68,900 (excluding on-road costs) and extends the WLTP range to 551km, up 18km from 2024. It’s quicker off the mark as well, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds (a sliver less than the previous 5 seconds) with a same top speed of 201km/hr as the RWD variant.

2025 Model Y range and driving dynamics

Tesla has implemented several updates to boost real-world driving efficiency, with the Long-Range AWD model benefiting from aerodynamic and chassis improvements first introduced in the 2024 “Highland” Model 3 that adds 18km to its WLTP range compared to the outgoing version.

Both variants receive a redesigned suspension, aimed at significantly improving ride comfort, noise isolation, and overall handling. Tesla says that improvements to suspension result in a 22% reduction in road noise and a 20% reduction in impact noise, alongside a 20% reduction in wind noise.

Tesla says new low rolling resistance tyres (19” Crossflows, upgradeable to 20” Helix 2.0 wheels) help deliver a smoother ride and better efficiency, further reducing road noise inside the cabin for passengers and a better driving experience thanks to enhanced grip on varied road surfaces.

2025 Model Y exterior design and tech

The refreshed Model Y borrows design includes a distinctive full-width daytime running lightbar at the front and an expansive 1.6m-wide reflective taillight bar at the rear. Adaptive pixel headlights cleverly dim individual LEDs to avoid blinding other drivers—great for those late-night country drives.

Tesla also includes a new front bumper-mounted blind-spot camera, improving visibility during parking and low-speed driving. The front camera now also gets self-cleaning functionality for enhanced forward visibility.

Practical touches also include a magnetic loadspace cover and a hands-free trunk that pops open as you approach, while phone key functionality has been improved by a factor for ten according to Tesla, via ultra-wideband technology.

2025 Model Y interior design and tech

Inside, the new Model Y benefits from significant cabin enhancements. Upgraded materials, heated and ventilated front seats, and power-reclining heated rear seats contribute to a more comfortable interior. A left indicator stalk has been reintroduced, reportedly after feedback from the lack of stalks in the 2024 Model 3.

In the back row, passengers have access to an 8-inch rear infotainment screen compatible with two Bluetooth headsets, perfect for keeping little ones entertained on long road trips. Ambient lighting offers customisation with a choice of up to one million colours, which will no doubt also appeal to the kids and young-at-heart.

The panoramic glass roof now also includes a silver-coated layer which Tesla says reflects seven times more solar energy compared to the previous version, significantly improving cabin cooling efficiency.

2025 Model Y tyre service and warranty

Tesla provides comprehensive after-sales support, including a 24/7 mobile tyre repair service available via the Tesla app, for assistance with roadside puncture repairs or providing loaner wheels when required.

Warranty coverage includes Tesla’s standard four-year or 80,000 km basic vehicle warranty — undeniably not the most generous on the market — with extended coverage of eight years or 192,000 km on the battery and drive unit for the AWD variant (160,000 km for the RWD variant).

First vehicles are scheduled to arrive in June, with Launch Edition units still expected for a mid-May arrival. Autopilot HW4.0 hardware and active safety functions as standard are present across all variants.