Tesla Lease Price Increase: Nearly 70% Hike Coming December 26
Tesla is going “Grinch-mode” this holiday season with a threat to drastically raise prices immediately after Christmas. The electric vehicle giant has signaled an imminent Tesla lease price increase that could see monthly payments jump by nearly 70% for some models.
These changes will specifically affect the 2026 Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck starting December 26. This move puts immense pressure on electric car shoppers to lock in year-end deals before they disappear. However, a specific detail in the fine print could make securing these current rates more difficult than it appears.
Model 3: The Biggest Price Hike
The most significant financial hit targets the brand’s most affordable vehicle. The 2026 Tesla Model 3 is slated for the largest percentage increase.
Currently, leasing a Model 3 Premium trim costs approximately $299 per month with $1,500 down. After the December 26 deadline, Tesla states this price will skyrocket to $499 per month with a steeper $3,000 down payment.
When factoring in the higher amount due at signing, the effective monthly cost is estimated to rise from $368 to $616 overnight. This represents a staggering jump, fundamentally changing the value proposition of the entry-level EV.
Model Y and Cybertruck Increases
The popular 2026 Tesla Model Y is not spared from the hikes. The lease price for the Model Y is set to increase by approximately 39%. The new rate will be $549 per month with $3,000 down, up from the current $449 per month with $0 down.
When including the acquisition fee and first month’s payment, the effective cost for the Model Y is projected to leap from $481 to $667. This effectively ends one of the best financing deals currently available on the market.
The 2026 Cybertruck will also see a price adjustment. The base lease is expected to rise from $729 to $849 per month. While this 14% increase is smaller in percentage terms compared to the sedans, it still adds roughly $124 per month to the effective cost of the truck.
Tesla Lease Price Changes (Effective Dec 26)
| Model | Current Price (Est.) | New Price (Est.) | Effective Cost Increase |
| Model 3 Premium | $299/mo ($1,500 down) | $499/mo ($3,000 down) | +$248 / mo |
| Model Y | $449/mo ($0 down) | $549/mo ($3,000 down) | +$186 / mo |
| Cybertruck | $729/mo ($5,000 down) | $849/mo ($5,000 down) | +$124 / mo |
The “Fine Print” Trap
Shoppers scrambling to beat the Tesla lease price increase need to be aware of a critical condition in the terms and conditions.
To lock in the current lower prices, Tesla requires two things:
- Credit Application: Must be received by December 26.
- Delivery Date: You must take delivery of the vehicle by December 31.
This second requirement is the hurdle. Tesla is currently quoting lead times of up to 3 weeks for many EV configurations. If you order now but the car is not ready for delivery until January 1, you may be forced to pay the new, higher rates.
Conclusion
The impending Tesla lease price increase is a significant blow to holiday shoppers looking for a bargain. With effective costs rising by over $200 a month for the Model 3, the window of opportunity is closing rapidly. If you are on the fence, checking local inventory for immediate delivery is likely your safest bet to avoid the price hike.
Will these higher prices push you toward a competitor, or is the Tesla experience still worth the premium?
Also Read –Affordable Tesla Model 3 – New European Variant Cuts Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Tesla lease price increase take effect?
The new pricing structure for the Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck goes into effect on December 26, 2025.
Can I lock in the current price if I order now?
You must submit a credit application by December 26 and take delivery of the vehicle by December 31 to secure the current rates.
Which Tesla model has the biggest price hike?
The Model 3 Premium trim sees the largest percentage increase. The effective cost is expected to rise by nearly 70% due to higher monthly payments and a doubled down payment.
Are financing rates changing as well?
The report focuses on lease prices. Currently, the Model Y still offers a competitive 0% APR financing deal on the entry-level Standard trim for 72 months.
