Jay Leno Takes the Wheel of the 2026 Tesla Model Y; Performance Version Arriving Soon | Carscoops

      Several significant enhancements have made the new Tesla Model Y quieter and more sophisticated compared to its predecessor.

      All-new acoustic glass is expected to decrease cabin noise in the Model Y by up to 20%.

      Jay Leno discussed the updated Tesla with the company's design and engineering leaders.

      Deliveries of the Model Y Launch Series in the US are set to begin in March, with additional trims to be introduced later.

      The heavily revised Tesla Model Y is vital for the top electric vehicle manufacturer. The original Model Y not only led the electric vehicle market but also ranked as the best-selling vehicle globally, across all powertrains, in 2023. It's anticipated that this title will extend into 2024 (pending final figures), and with a range of essential updates, the new model seeks to secure its leading position. It's fair to say that some traditional automakers are observing the situation with concern.

      Following Tesla’s online reveal of the refreshed Model Y last month, information about the updates has been gradually released. The company has now put out a video showcasing key enhancements related to the ‘Juniper’ update, which seems to be marketed as a 2026 model year in North America rather than 2025. Tesla also had Jay Leno take the car for a test drive in Los Angeles, marking the first instance of Western media experiencing the new Model Y in action, as prior coverage was restricted to still presentations.

      More Than Just a Model 3 Lookalike

      Tesla’s chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, stated that the new Model Y has developed its distinct identity. While the earlier version bore close resemblance to a larger pre-facelift Model 3, the latest update introduces various unique design features. Notably, it now has a Cybertruck-inspired LED light bar at the front, and both the taillights and tailgate have been entirely redesigned, featuring a full-width light strip.

      Tesla also asserts that the new acoustic glass significantly cuts down cabin noise by as much as 20% when compared with the previous version. The roof includes enhanced Low-E (low-emissivity) glass with micro-particles of silver that can block 25–30% more heat from entering the cabin. Additional interior upgrades comprise a revamped audio system with up to 16 speakers in higher trims, along with separate Bluetooth connectivity for the front and rear screens.

      Smoother Ride, Smarter Features

      The quality of ride has been another primary focus for Tesla engineers, with a newly designed suspension system aimed at enhancing comfort and handling. Practical improvements have also been made: the trunk opening has been slightly enlarged, and a new drain plug in the front trunk allows it to be utilized as an ice-filled cooler. Tesla is even in the process of developing various accessories designed for the front trunk’s enhanced use.

      Technological enhancements include standard Autopilot 4.0, equipped with a more powerful onboard computer and advanced exterior cameras. Additionally, Tesla has reversed a previous design choice, as the new Model Y retains a traditional turn signal stalk instead of the button-based system found in the latest Model 3. According to Tesla, they took customer feedback into account and determined that a stalk is more preferable than buttons on the steering wheel. Leno, a long-time Tesla owner, expressed satisfaction with this change.

      More Variants Coming Soon

      Both Franz von Holzhausen and Lars Moravy, Tesla’s vice president of vehicle engineering, joined Jay Leno to discuss the updated Model Y. Leno, a seasoned Tesla owner, seemed genuinely impressed with numerous changes made.

      During the video, Tesla executives affirmed that the revamped Model Y lineup will broaden over time. “We’re starting with the Launch edition. All the other variants—the Dual-Motor base edition, Rear-Wheel Drive, Performance, seven-seater options—will be launched later in the year,” said Moravy.