Tesla Model Y (2025) Review
You’ve likely read a dozen Tesla Model Y reviews by now—but here’s one with a twist. This review comes from the perspective of someone who’s lived with the previous version of the Model Y. That means we’re not just marvelling at shiny new features—we're comparing, critiquing, and asking the big question: Is the 2025 Tesla Model Y a true upgrade, or just a facelift?
Whether you're a current Model Y owner considering an upgrade, or someone new to the EV world, the 2025 Tesla Model Y deserves a top spot on your list.
A Quick Overview of the 2025 Model Y Line-Up (UK)
Tesla’s UK lineup for the 2025 Model Y now includes three core variants:
Standard Range RWD – £44,990, 311 miles WLTP range, 5.6s 0-60, 60 kWh LFP battery
Long Range RWD – £48,990, 387 miles WLTP range, 5.9s 0-60, 75 kWh battery
Long Range AWD – £52,000, 364 miles WLTP, 4.6s 0-60
And then there's the Launch Edition, priced at £61,000. It gets the same AWD platform, but with some extra flair:
353 miles WLTP, 4.1s 0-60, and a more refined, limited-edition trim.
Design: A Facelift That Actually Works
While some facelifts barely deserve the name, the 2025 Model Y has a much more distinctive new look—especially when seen side by side with the outgoing model. With sleeker headlights, more mature lines, and a noticeably revamped rear end (including a light bar and updated tail lights), Tesla’s made the new Model Y feel more purposeful and grown-up.
Is it beautiful? That depends on your taste. But it’s definitely more striking than before.
Interior Upgrades: Rear Screen, Better Trim, and Subtle Refinements
The cabin sees several welcome changes, many borrowed from the updated Model 3 “Highland.” Most obvious is the rear passenger touchscreen, which now allows control of climate settings, media, games, and streaming—all with the ability to pair Bluetooth headphones. Long journeys with kids just got 100% more tolerable.
Build quality has stepped up, with materials that feel better underhand—like the new satin black dashboard trim which thankfully reduces windscreen reflections (a real gripe in the old Model 3).
There’s also improved ambient lighting with a subtle LED light bar running the cabin’s width. And no, it’s not just for show—it actually makes the interior feel more premium at night.
Comfort and Practicality: A Space-Efficiency Masterclass
The Model Y’s boot remains cavernous, with 854L of space, including a very deep underfloor area. Add the 117L frunk, and you’re looking at best-in-class cargo flexibility. The new rear seat release buttons (electronic, no less) make dropping the seats that little bit more convenient.
Rear seat legroom and headroom continue to impress. Tesla has also retained that expansive glass roof, keeping the cabin airy and bright—even in the gloom of a UK forest.
Infotainment & Tech: Still Tesla’s Strongest Suit
Tesla still refuses to support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto—but it almost doesn’t matter. The native infotainment is lightning-fast and tightly integrated, with streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Spotify, and more—especially with the £10/month Premium Connectivity.
The sound system remains one of the best in its class, easily outclassing many premium rivals. Navigation is still top-notch, especially for route planning with Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Driving Experience: The Best Model Y Yet
One of the original Model Y’s biggest criticisms was its overly firm ride. Tesla has clearly listened.
The 2025 version, while still on the firmer side, feels noticeably more composed and less skittish. Steering is steadier, and you're no longer constantly making small corrections on bumpy roads. It's not a dramatic overhaul, but it's a welcome refinement.
With the Launch Edition’s AWD drivetrain, you get brisk acceleration: 0–60 in just 4.1 seconds. Is it necessary? Not really. But is it fun? Absolutely. Overtakes, roundabout exits, and on-ramps are all handled with ridiculous ease.
Tesla’s focus on efficiency continues to shine. This car offers more range with less battery than many competitors—saving you weight, cost, and money on home charging. For long-distance drivers, that’s a huge win.
Quirks and Gripe Watch
Tesla brought back the indicator stalk, which was removed in the Model 3 Highland. Unfortunately, it’s not as nice to use as the older version—it’s more of a switch than a stalk, and the feel is cheap.
Drive mode selection is still screen-based, or done via overhead buttons. It’s functional but not exactly intuitive.
Still no head-up display, which some drivers would really appreciate.
But these issues are minor in the grand scheme—and many are personal preferences more than dealbreakers.
Final Verdict: Is the 2025 Model Y Worth It?
Absolutely. Tesla hasn’t reinvented the wheel with the 2025 Model Y—but they’ve refined nearly everything that needed work:
Smoother ride
Smarter tech (especially for passengers)
More premium feel inside
Better efficiency
Even more practicality
This isn’t just a facelift—it’s a proper upgrade that makes the already-brilliant Model Y even better.
Whether you're a current Model Y owner considering an upgrade, or someone new to the EV world, the 2025 Tesla Model Y deserves a top spot on your list. It’s not perfect—but it’s a smarter, more user-friendly version of one of the best electric SUVs ever made.
To find out the latest lease prices for a Tesla Model Y, Click here.
