Tesla has finally started moving full speed ahead with its India plans. The American EV giant has not only leased its first showroom space in Mumbai’s BKC, but also begun homologation processes for both the Model 3 and Model Y. Now, a camouflaged test mule of the Tesla Model Y facelift, codenamed Juniper, has been spotted on Indian roads for the first time.
Tesla Model Y facelift spotted on test
Spied on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway by X user Ashish Pol, the test mule reveals that Tesla is testing the updated Model Y for the Indian market. It’s a clear indication that the company isn’t just offloading older stock but bringing in its newest products, a major plus for Indian consumers.
This facelifted version of Model Y debuted globally earlier this year. Compared to the outgoing version, the new Model Y looks sharper and sportier. It features a split headlight setup with sleek, connected LED DRLs and redesigned LED headlamps. Its overall silhouette remains familiar, but the updated styling cues, including the sculpted bonnet and blacked-out pillars, lend it a more premium appearance.
Exterior and design changes
The facelift continues Tesla’s function-first philosophy, especially when seen in profile. A coupe-like roofline ensures aerodynamic efficiency, while the rear is highlighted by connected 3D LED tail lights and a revised bumper. Black roof, flush door handles, and larger alloy wheels (up to 20 inches) round off the updates.
Inside the new Model Y
Like the Model 3 update, the Model Y facelift comes with a near-buttonless interior. Most controls are embedded into the large 15.4-inch touchscreen in the centre. There's no separate driver display, but rear passengers get an 8-inch entertainment screen for games and video streaming. The ADAS suite includes Tesla’s Autopilot functionality, which could be a significant highlight for the Indian market.
Specs, range and performance
The updated Tesla Model Y measures 4,790 mm long, 1,981 mm wide, and 1,623 mm tall, offering generous cabin space and up to 2,152L of cargo room with the rear seats folded. Battery options can go up to 80 kWh, delivering up to 526 km of range (WLTP). In its dual-motor AWD guise, it accelerates from 0 to 96.5 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. It also supports DC fast charging of up to 250 kW.
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Launch timeline
With Tesla applying for homologation and testing the Model Y facelift in India, a CBU (Completely Built Units) launch could happen within the coming months. Once launched, the Model Y will compete with other premium electric SUVs and could finally give Indian buyers a taste of Tesla’s EV ecosystem.
