LATEST: The Model Y Long Range has a confirmed range of 600km as of 2025.
Tesla has unveiled the refreshed Model Y in China and is starting to accept bookings for the car in various Asia Pacific countries including Malaysia.
The so-called “Juniper” facelift is also offering exclusive features in a limited Launch Edition.
Priced RM4,000 more from RM195,450 in Malaysia, the world’s best-selling electric vehicle now features a Glacier Blue exterior, a cyber-inspired cross-car lightbar, and a redesigned tailgate influenced by Tesla’s futuristic Cybertruck.
Interior upgrades include a quieter cabin, double-layered glass for soundproofing, and an all-black vegan suede trim.
The Launch Edition boasts a unique launch badge, puddle light badge, and bespoke silver accents in its design.
Other enhancements include a panoramic glass roof with UV protection, newly designed wheels, and a rear diffuser aimed at improving aerodynamics and stability.
The Model Y retains features such as ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, and a second-row display, with the convenience of rear-seat adjustment via a button.
Customers can choose between rear-wheel drive and long-range variants, with the latter priced at RM242,450.
The updated Model Y made its debut in China earlier today, where prices start at 263,500 yuan (around RM162,000), marking a 5.4% increase from its predecessor.
Deliveries in China are scheduled for March from its Shanghai plant, pending regulatory approval, while those for Malaysia are expected to arrive in late April.
Reuters reported that details about the rollout in North America and Europe remain unclear.
The refreshed Model Y comes as Tesla aims to regain market share in China, where domestic competitors like Xiaomi and Xpeng have gained ground.
Tesla once dominated the Chinese electric vehicle market in 2020 but now faces stiff competition. Analysts suggest the revamped Model Y may struggle to reclaim its former momentum due to rising competition and Tesla’s yet-to-be-finalised Full Self-Driving software in China.
Rivals such as Xiaomi’s upcoming YU7 and Xpeng’s G7 feature advanced smart driving capabilities, positioning them as direct competitors to Tesla’s Model Y.
Tesla is also planning to introduce a six-seat variant of the Model Y in China later this year, sources told Reuters.
Despite these efforts, experts remain cautious about Tesla’s ability to regain dominance in the Chinese EV market, as local manufacturers continue to innovate and cater to tech-savvy consumers.
