The 2025 Tesla Model Y RWD is the entry ticket to the world's best-selling electric SUV, and it’s a seriously compelling package. For a starting price of around €45,970 in Europe, you get a practical, tech-laden family car with access to the superb Supercharger network. This rear-wheel-drive version perfectly balances efficiency, usable performance, and an enormous cabin, making it the default choice for many families switching to electric. Its minimalist appeal and massive cargo capacity make it a standout contender in the crowded electric SUV market, offering a unique blend of innovation and practicality.
The 2025 model year ushers in the heavily anticipated "Juniper" refresh, bringing a host of welcome upgrades. While the core DNA remains, the exterior gets a subtle sharpening for a more modern look. Inside, the cabin receives a significant lift with improved materials, potentially adding features like ambient lighting and ventilated front seats to elevate comfort. The car is now slightly longer and wider, hinting at refined proportions and interior space. These updates focus on enhancing the premium feel and addressing customer feedback from previous model years, keeping the Model Y fresh and competitive.
Sticking to Tesla's "less is more" philosophy, the Model Y RWD boasts a smooth, aerodynamic design that is both futuristic and instantly recognisable. Its clean lines and coupe-like roofline give it a sporty crossover stance. Key dimensions for this refreshed model are 4790 mm in length, 1982 mm in width (without mirrors), and 1624 mm in height, giving it a solid presence on the road. Features like the standard full-length panoramic glass roof, frameless windows, and sleek LED lighting complete a look that cleverly hides its immense practicality behind a stylish facade.
The cabin is a masterclass in minimalism, dominated by a huge central touchscreen that controls nearly every function—from navigation to climate. While there’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, Tesla’s own system is slick and intuitive. Passenger space is generous, and the standard vegan leather interior feels premium. But the real party trick is its practicality; with a whopping 854-litre boot that expands to a cavernous 2138 litres with the seats folded, plus a handy 117-litre frunk up front, it has more cargo space than almost any rival.
Don't let the "entry-level" tag fool you; this EV is properly quick. The single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor sends 220 kW and 420 Nm of torque to the rear wheels, whipping the Model Y RWD from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 5.9 seconds. The instant throttle response makes it feel punchy and agile around town, while the steering is direct and engaging. The ride is firm but well-controlled, and powerful regenerative braking allows for easy one-pedal driving, making it an effortless yet entertaining SUV to pilot in any situation.
Powered by a 60.5 kWh usable battery pack, this Model Y RWD delivers a solid real-world range of 425 km, as calculated by Green Cars Compare. Its excellent efficiency of 7.02 km/kWh helps maximise every charge. Top-ups are a doddle thanks to the CCS Type 2 port. At home on an 11 kW AC charger, a full charge takes around 6 hours. On the road, it can accept up to 175 kW from a DC fast charger, blasting the battery from 10-80% in under 30 minutes—perfect for long-distance journeys.
Safety is a top priority for Tesla, and the Model Y scores a full 5-star rating from Euro NCAP. It comes packed with standard active safety tech, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Tesla's excellent Autopilot system, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, is standard. For those wanting more, Enhanced Autopilot and the 'Full Self-Driving Capability' package are available as optional software upgrades, adding features like automatic lane changes and summon functionality for an extra cost.
Tesla provides solid peace of mind for European owners. The Model Y is covered by a 4-year or 80,000 km Basic Vehicle Limited Warranty. Crucially, the battery and drive unit are protected for 8 years or 160,000 km, whichever comes first, with a guarantee of at least 70% battery capacity retention. With no oil changes or exhaust systems to worry about, maintenance is minimal and typically revolves around tyres, brakes, and cabin air filters. All service is conveniently managed through the Tesla app, simplifying the ownership experience.
Tesla Model Y Standard Range RWD (2021-2025) 
