First Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh sighting reveals visual updates and hints at imminent release

The Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh has been on the cards for a long while now, and, while it might have been delayed, we are now getting our first look at the updated Model Y in the wild in a series of spy shots taken by u/JacklJack on Reddit. Not only does the sighting give us a glimpse at the new Model Y's styling, it also gives us a bit of a hint as to when the Juniper refresh might be launched.

The Model Y Juniper photo, taken at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, shows off the front of the new crossover, and despite the EV being under camouflage, there's plenty to be gleaned in terms of styling. For starters, the Model Y refresh seems to have the same simplified, straightened hood and front bumper styling as the Model 3 Highland. Similarly, the wheel wells and curves on the front quarter panels look a lot less drastic than the current Model Y, giving it an overall less organic look.

The camo makes it difficult to see, but it looks as though the new Model Y will also share the Model 3 Highland's updated headlight design. Overall, the visual changes are likely to make the new Model Y look more modern and sleeker, compared to the ageing original design.

Unlike some Model 3 Highland prototype sightings, the Model Y Juniper does not have new wheels just yet, although it wouldn't be a surprise to see the 2025 Tesla Model Y launch with a new wheel design to match the minimalist new design language.

At the time of writing, there is no official release window for the Model Y Juniper refresh, but it's not unusual to see prototype test vehicles show up in sightings like this as far as eight months to a year before the official launch. An early 2025 launch has been speculated for the Model Y Juniper refresh, and, given the timing of this first public sighting, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Tesla announce the new EV near the end of 2024 or early 2025, with deliveries starting in Q2 of 2025.

Buy a Peak Design Mobile Car Vent Mount with Qi2 Wireless Charging on Amazon.