Australia’s best-selling electric vehicle, the Tesla Model Y, has received a significant update for 2025, featuring an increased range for its Long Range model and a fresh color option. The dual-motor Long Range variant of this popular mid-size SUV now boasts a claimed 600km range under the WLTP cycle, an improvement from the previous 551km. Meanwhile, the base single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) version retains its 466km range.
According to Tesla Korea certification data shared by Tsla Chan on X, the Model Y Long Range’s battery capacity has been expanded from 81.65kWh to 84.85kWh. This enhancement aligns with previous reports suggesting a shift to new 2170 battery cells from LG Energy Solution.
Performance and New Features
Despite the range boost, performance figures remain unchanged. The RWD model continues to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a claimed 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range model achieves this in 4.8 seconds. Additionally, Tesla has introduced a new exterior paint option, Diamond Black, available for all Model Y variants at an additional cost of $1500.
Other exterior finishes have seen price adjustments. Pearl White Multi-Coat remains the standard finish, while Glacier Blue is now priced at $1500 and Stealth Grey at $1900, down from $2300. Quicksilver and Ultra Red continue to be available at $2600.
Pricing and Market Position
The Model Y range starts at $58,900 before on-road costs for the RWD, with the Long Range priced at $68,900 plus on-road costs. The updated Performance flagship model has yet to be unveiled. The Model Y, Tesla’s only SUV available in Australia, recently underwent a substantial upgrade known as the Juniper update. This included new front and rear styling, revised suspension, and a suite of interior enhancements such as heated and ventilated front seats, a 15.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, color-adjustable ambient lighting, heated and power-reclining rear seats, and an 8.0-inch rear entertainment screen.
Sales Impact and Market Competition
The Juniper update has been instrumental in reversing a sales decline for the Model Y. By the end of June, Tesla had delivered 10,431 units of the SUV in Australia this year. This positions the Model Y well ahead of its competitors, including the BYD Sealion 7, which has seen 3756 deliveries, and other rivals like the Kia EV5 with 2765 units and the Polestar 4 with 676 units.
“The Model Y’s enhancements are a strategic move to maintain its dominance in the Australian EV market,” said an industry expert. “With increased range and new features, Tesla is clearly aiming to solidify its position against emerging competitors.”
Looking Forward
The latest updates to the Tesla Model Y reflect a broader trend in the automotive industry towards continual improvement and adaptation in the face of growing competition. As the EV market expands, manufacturers are under pressure to innovate and enhance their offerings to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.
With the introduction of the 2025 Model Y, Tesla continues to set benchmarks in the electric vehicle sector, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and technological advancement. As the year progresses, industry watchers will be keen to see how these updates impact Tesla’s market share and influence future developments in the EV landscape.
