The 2025 Tesla Model Y RWD is the entry-point to Tesla's hugely popular electric SUV line-up, offering a compelling blend of practicality, tech, and efficiency for European families. Starting around €45,970, this rear-wheel-drive variant prioritises range and value. It's built in multiple locations including Germany and China for the EU. Key highlights include its spacious interior, impressive cargo capacity, access to Tesla's Supercharger network, and a 1600 kg braked towing capacity, making it a fantastic all-rounder. It’s the sensible, yet still exciting, choice in the Model Y range.
For 2025, the Model Y RWD continues Tesla's tradition of incremental updates and improvements. While major "Juniper" refresh details are still firming up for specific trims and regions, buyers can expect the latest software enhancements, potentially refined interior materials, and subtle exterior styling tweaks. These ongoing refinements aim to keep the Model Y at the cutting edge, enhancing comfort, efficiency, and the overall user experience. Expect the latest over-the-air updates to bring new features throughout its life, ensuring it stays fresh and competitive in the bustling EV market.
The Model Y RWD boasts that sleek, minimalist Tesla aesthetic that’s instantly recognisable. Its smooth, aerodynamic lines contribute to its efficiency, while the panoramic glass roof floods the cabin with light. Standard for the RWD are typically 19-inch 'Gemini' wheels, striking a balance between looks and range. Full LED lighting all-around ensures excellent visibility. Dimensionally, it measures a practical 4790 mm in length, 1982 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and stands 1624 mm tall, giving it a confident SUV stance without being overly cumbersome for city driving.
Step inside, and you're greeted by Tesla's signature minimalist cabin, dominated by a crisp 15-inch central touchscreen. This controls everything from navigation to climate, offering a clean, button-free experience; Tesla's own comprehensive system takes centre stage, though direct Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration isn't standard. Material quality is good, with vegan leather upholstery. Passenger space is generous for five adults. Cargo is where it really shines: a massive 854 litres in the boot, expanding to a van-like 2138 litres with seats folded flat. Plus, there's a handy 117-litre 'frunk'!
The Model Y RWD is no slouch, zipping from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 5.9 seconds thanks to its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) delivering 220 kW of power and 420 Nm of instant torque to the rear wheels. Top speed is a respectable 201 km/h. The driving experience is typically Tesla: smooth, quiet, and effortlessly quick. While not as potent as its dual-motor siblings, the RWD offers a balanced and engaging drive with a comfortable ride. One-pedal driving with strong regenerative braking is a highlight.
The 2025 Model Y RWD packs a 57.5 kWh (usable) battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 395 km – plenty for daily duties and decent road trips. Efficiency is impressive at 6.87 km/kWh. For charging, it uses a CCS Type 2 port, conveniently located. At home or work, the standard 11 kW on-board AC charger can top it up fully in roughly 5.5 to 6 hours. On the go, it can guzzle DC juice at up to 170 kW, meaning a 10-80% charge can take as little as 25-30 minutes.
Safety is a Tesla forte, and the Model Y RWD boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, offering top-tier protection. Standard Autopilot is included, providing adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, making motorway driving a breeze. It also features blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance assist, and a comprehensive suite of airbags. For even more advanced capabilities, buyers can opt for Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability, adding features like auto lane change and Navigate on Autopilot, though always requiring driver supervision for safe operation.
Tesla offers a solid warranty package for peace of mind. The Model Y RWD comes with a basic vehicle warranty of 4 years or 80,000 km, whichever comes first in Europe. Crucially, the battery and drive unit are covered for an impressive 8 years or 160,000 km (for this RWD variant), with a guarantee of at least 70% battery capacity retention. Maintenance is minimal thanks to the EV powertrain, with no regular oil changes needed. Over-the-air software updates keep the car feeling fresh and often improve functionality.
Tesla Model Y Standard Range RWD (2021-2025) 
