Tesla Model Y Premium AWD

Overview

The 2025 Tesla Model Y is the undisputed king of the electric SUV segment, and the Premium AWD trim hits the sweet spot for most buyers. Blending impressive range, brisk all-wheel-drive performance, and unmatched practicality, it's the do-it-all EV for the modern family. Its access to Tesla's robust Supercharger network remains a massive advantage over rivals. With its minimalist tech-forward cabin and sleek design, it offers a futuristic driving experience that's hard to beat. Expect pricing to start around $48,000 before any federal or state incentives are applied.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Model Y is poised to receive its first major refresh, codenamed "Juniper." This highly anticipated update is expected to bring a sharper exterior look inspired by the new Model 3, featuring slimmer headlights and a redesigned front fascia. Inside, the cabin gets a significant upgrade with new materials, customizable ambient lighting, and a rear-seat entertainment screen. A key change will be the removal of steering column stalks, moving turn signal and drive selection functions to the steering wheel and central touchscreen, respectively, for an even cleaner aesthetic.

Design & Exterior

The Model Y's design is a masterclass in aerodynamic efficiency, with a smooth, pebble-like shape that maximizes range. Its crossover-coupe silhouette gives it a sporty stance, complemented by a massive panoramic glass roof that floods the cabin with light. The Premium AWD trim typically rides on stylish 19-inch "Gemini" wheels that balance looks with efficiency. It's a sizable but manageable package, measuring 187 inches in length, 75.6 inches in width (without mirrors), and 63.9 inches in height, giving it a commanding presence on the road.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside and you're greeted by Tesla's signature minimalist interior, dominated by a crisp 15-inch central touchscreen that controls nearly every vehicle function. The cabin feels airy and spacious, with premium vegan leather upholstery and seating for five adults in comfort. Cargo space is simply cavernous; you get a generous 30.2 cubic feet in the trunk, a massive 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat, and a handy 4.1 cubic foot front trunk, or "frunk." While there's no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, Tesla's native infotainment is fast and intuitive.

Performance & Driving Experience

This is one family SUV that can seriously hustle. The Premium AWD's dual-motor setup delivers instant torque, launching it from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.8 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system provides confidence-inspiring grip in all weather conditions, while the low center of gravity makes for surprisingly nimble handling. The ride is firm yet composed, and the powerful regenerative braking allows for true one-pedal driving, making city commutes a breeze. It's a quiet, smooth, and effortlessly quick experience that will make you rethink performance.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powered by a 75 kWh usable battery pack, this trim delivers excellent efficiency at around 3.7 mi/kWh. Green Cars Compare's calculated 'real-world' range estimate is a very practical 290 miles, perfect for daily driving and road trips. At home, the 11.5 kW on-board AC charger can replenish the battery overnight. On the go, it's a charging champion, capable of pulling a peak of 250 kW at a DC fast charger. Using Tesla's Supercharger network via the NACS port, you can add over 160 miles of range in just 15 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a cornerstone of the Model Y, which has earned a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Every Premium AWD comes standard with Tesla's Autopilot, a suite of driver-assistance features that includes advanced adaptive cruise control and one of the best lane-centering systems on the market. For an additional cost, owners can upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot or the Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability package, which adds features like automatic lane changes, traffic light recognition, and summon functionality, pushing the boundaries of automated driving technology.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla's ownership experience is defined by simplicity. The Model Y is covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty. The crucial components—the battery pack and drive unit—are backed for an impressive 8 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first, with a guarantee of at least 70% battery capacity retention. With no oil changes or traditional tune-ups required, and with many updates and diagnostics handled over-the-air, maintenance is minimal, reducing long-term running costs and keeping the car feeling new with regular software enhancements.