Spied: Tesla Sub-$40k Model Y Standard Reveals Cleaner Look, Feature Cuts & New Price

Spied: Tesla Sub-$40k Model Y New Sub-$40k Model Y

Our Best Look Yet at Tesla’s New Sub-$40k Model Y has emerged through recent spy shots, showing the upcoming model with no camouflage near Giga Texas. Expected to be called the Model Y Standard, this version is rumored to be only $5,000 cheaper than the current base model, making it Tesla’s only new vehicle to start at under $40,000. While some angles reveal a cleaner aesthetic, the significant price point and design simplifications may pose its biggest hurdles as it nears its full reveal.

Source: Ryan Mable/X

Unique Front Fascia and Lighting: A Cleaner, More Conventional Look

The newly spied Model Y Standard showcases several distinct exterior changes, particularly at the front:

• Simplified Front Fascia: The vertical cut-outs seen on more expensive Model Ys have been removed, creating what some might argue is a cleaner, more streamlined appearance.
• Absence of Center Light Bar: The futuristic center light bar that connects the slim headlight clusters on other Model Y trims has been removed. This gives the Model Y Standard a more conventional, less futuristic face.
• Front Bumper Camera: A front bumper camera is visible, confirming its inclusion.

Along the side, changes are minimal except for the wheels. The Model Y Standard features smaller 18-inch Aperture wheels. While these may not be as stylish as the larger 19- and 20-inch options on upper trims, the smaller wheels could potentially offer benefits in terms of range efficiency.

The rear of the vehicle also sees modifications. There’s a much slimmer black bar running side-to-side, lacking the full light bar and integrated “TESLA” wording of the standard model. This slimmer bar results in a notably vast expanse of sheet metal on the trunk lid, which also doesn’t align as neatly with the bottom black section. Despite these changes, the overall look of the Model Y Standard is not unattractive, and it might appear more appealing in colors other than the white seen in the spy shots.

Downgraded Interior, Basic Suspension, and Feature Omissions

Previous reports and the latest spy shots confirm that the Model Y Standard will forgo quite a few interior and performance features in favor of its lower price point:

• No Glass Roof: A significant omission, as the panoramic glass roof is a signature feature of other Tesla models.
• No Rear Touchscreen Display: The rear infotainment screen will be absent.
• Manually Adjustable Steering Wheel: Unlike other trims, the steering wheel will require manual adjustment.
• Basic Materials and Audio: Interior materials will be less deluxe, with potentially greater limitations on colors and lighting, alongside a more basic audio package.

Under the skin, it remains to be seen if the motors and battery will undergo significant changes. However, the suspension is expected to be downgraded, meaning the Model Y Standard may not deliver the same ride quality or handling prowess as its more expensive siblings, certainly not matching the sharp performance of the top Model Y Performance model.

Furthermore, some safety features are also expected to be omitted, including the tire pressure monitoring system and the backup camera heater.

The true value proposition of the Model Y Standard will only become clear once the production model is officially revealed and driven. An official reveal is anticipated before the end of the year, at which point consumers can weigh the $5,000 saving against the comprehensive list of design and feature simplifications.

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