Tesla’s most affordable Model Y is nearly here, and it’s not arriving quietly. Set for release after September 30, the stripped-down Model Y S is rumored to start at $35,000. But the lower price tag doesn’t come without strings. Leaked code and early sightings point to a thinner spec sheet, trimmed features, and even regional restrictions.
Cheapest Tesla Model Y S loses comfort and tech perks
According to references in Tesla’s E41 firmware strings, this budget variant is skipping several of the more premium touches found in the 2026 Model Y Juniper. Gone is the panoramic glass roof. Also missing: the rear seat display, ambient light bar, and even basic interior items like clothing hooks.
The compromises extend to functionality. The seats reportedly only move forward and back, with no tilt or height adjustment. Power-folding mirrors won’t make the cut either.
What’s missing from the Tesla Model Y S:
- No panoramic glass roof
- No rear seat display
- No ambient lighting
- Manual mirrors (no power folding)
- Limited seat adjustment
- No coat hooks
- Possibly cloth seats
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Suspension downgrade signals a softened ride
Tesla appears to be dialing back the suspension specs, although details are still thin. While it’s unlikely the Model Y S will handle poorly, the ride may feel looser or less refined than higher trims. This tracks with Tesla’s previous low-cost trims like the Model 3 in Mexico or the early RWD Cybertruck variant.
Cheapest Tesla Model Y S may skip North America
Two missing features in particular hint that the Model Y S may not be targeting cold-weather or tightly regulated markets like the U.S. or Canada. One is the absence of rear camera heating. The other is more surprising: no TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System).
That’s a problem; TPMS has been federally required in U.S. cars for years. Tesla might use ABS sensor-based workarounds, but it suggests this vehicle could be aimed at markets like Mexico, where regulations differ.
Tesla trims hard to hit the $35K mark
Originally expected to fall to $30,000 with the federal EV credit, the cheapest Model Y will now start around $35,000 after the tax credit rollback. While that still undercuts most crossovers in its class, the list of omissions makes you think twice.
Tesla’s cost-cutting strategy here isn’t subtle; it’s surgical. Whether buyers will bite or balk is something we’ll see as Q4 kicks off.
