The Tesla Model Y “Juniper” facelift has finally been unveiled, but the response from the public has been mixed. While some are excited about the updates, others are not impressed for various reasons.
One major point of contention is that some people feel the facelift doesn’t go far enough in improving the car. The launch edition of the Model Y comes with a hefty price tag, around $12,000 more expensive than the previous model, leading some Tesla owners to question whether the additional features are worth the cost. Additionally, there are concerns about the range of the vehicle and some are not convinced by the updated styling, especially after seeing more live photos and walkarounds of the car.
However, the dissatisfaction with the Model Y refresh is not the only issue at play. Many people are expressing their discontent with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, particularly after his actions at the 2025 Presidential Inauguration. Musk’s behavior, including what some have referred to as a “arm gesture,” has sparked outrage and criticism from the public. His recent turn towards far-right and white supremacist rhetoric, highlighted by a controversial “Roman salute” at the inauguration, has further fueled the backlash against him.
The comments sections on social media platforms are flooded with criticisms of Musk, with many people calling out his actions and expressing their disappointment. Some are even making pun-filled, satirical comments about Musk’s behavior and the implications it has for Tesla as a company.
Overall, the response to the Tesla Model Y facelift and Elon Musk’s actions has been divided. While some are excited about the updates to the car, others are questioning the direction of the company under Musk’s leadership. It remains to be seen how these issues will impact Tesla’s reputation and sales in the long run. Carwow, a UK-based YouTube channel, is known for its humorous and quirky automotive content. Some of their best gems include questions like, “Do you have to use arm signals instead of indicators?” and statements like, “They’ve replaced ‘Ludicrous’ mode with ‘Blitzkrieg’ mode, or ‘Berlin to Warsaw in one charge.’”
One user jokingly asks, “Does the [satellite navigation] now direct you to Poland?” highlighting the playful and light-hearted tone of the channel. However, not all comments are lighthearted, as some users express concern and disapproval over certain statements made by Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
The third comment mentioned in the video takes a more serious tone, with users expressing indignation and fear over Musk seemingly co-signing a return of Nazi ideals. This shift in tone from humor to serious concern reflects the diverse range of opinions and reactions to Musk’s controversial statements.
The video also touches on how some Tesla owners are reconsidering their support for the brand due to Musk’s actions. Some current Tesla owners have vowed to never buy another Tesla because of their disapproval of Musk’s behavior. This backlash from consumers is not ideal for Tesla, as it overshadows any improvements or advancements in their new Model Y.
Anecdotally, the video mentions instances where Tesla owners have decided to part ways with their vehicles in response to Musk’s statements. One owner sold their Model 3 to Carvana and replaced it with a gas-powered Porsche Macan, while another reader requested that InsideEVs stop covering Tesla entirely.
It remains to be seen how Tesla will navigate this controversy and whether Musk will address the backlash. As of now, Musk has not issued an apology or retracted any of his statements, leaving many unsure of what the future holds for the company and its CEO.