Tesla’s long-anticipated Model Y Standard has arrived with a lower price tag — but not without controversy. Starting at US$39,990, the new entry-level version of Tesla’s best-selling SUV promises 321 miles (517 km) of range and the same minimalist design language, yet the cost-saving measures run deeper than most expected.
Several surprisingly basic features have been stripped away, sparking debate among loyal Tesla owners and first-time buyers alike.
No Radio, No Autosteer, No Problem?
Among the most puzzling omissions is the complete removal of FM and AM radio support. While most drivers now rely on streaming apps or Bluetooth audio, terrestrial radio remains a simple, low-bandwidth entertainment option — especially useful when cell coverage drops. Tesla’s infotainment system still supports digital streaming, but anyone hoping to catch live sports or local news over the air is out of luck.
Autosteer, Tesla’s basic lane-centering feature commonly referred to as Autopilot, is also missing. Buyers can still opt for Full Self-Driving (Supervised) at US$8,000, but as of now it appears as there will be no option to upgrade to basic Autopilot, either before or after purchase.
Interior Downgrades and Simplified Tech
Inside, the Model Y Standard trades luxury for simplicity. The vegan leather upholstery found in higher trims has been replaced by a basic black textile interior, while the wrap-around ambient lighting strip has been eliminated entirely. The once-sleek power-folding rear seats are now manually operated, and the steering column has reverted to manual adjustment.
Rear passengers lose their dedicated 8-inch entertainment screen and heated seating, while the seven-speaker audio setup pales in comparison to the 15-speaker premium system found in pricier variants. Even the side mirrors have been downgraded to manual folding and no longer feature auto-dimming.
The Curious Case of the Hidden Glass Roof
Perhaps the strangest design change of all lies overhead. Tesla retained the panoramic glass roof but covered it with a conventional headliner. According to Tesla, they chose to simply conceal the glass beneath a fabric liner, which not only reduces glare and cabin noise, but was apparently a more cost-effective solution rather than engineering a metal roof.
Naturally, Tesla fans began wondering if they could simply remove the headliner to expose the glass roof, but according to an engineer, the glass is opaque, so even if it was removed, you would not get a view of the outside.
The Forgotten Frunk
Tesla’s cost-cutting also extends to the Model Y Standard’s front trunk — or “frunk” — which has been noticeably simplified, and reduced in size, compared to higher trims. The once well-finished compartment now features bare plastic surfaces, no paneling, no lighting, and no insulation under the lid. It’s also missing a drainage plug, a small but useful feature in previous versions that helped remove water buildup from melting snow or wet items.
More concerning for some owners is that the new frunk may no longer be fully waterproof. Photos suggest Tesla’s simplified design omits key seals and insulation layers, meaning moisture could find its way inside during heavy rain or car washes. That limits its usefulness for storing groceries, luggage, or electronics — items that drivers previously kept safely under the hood.
Worth the Savings?
Despite the compromises, Tesla is betting buyers will prioritize affordability over convenience. With $5,000 savings compared to the former Premium Model Y RWD, the Standard trim opens Tesla ownership to a wider audience.
However, the aggressive cost-cutting may prove to be a double-edged sword. For many shoppers, the loss of basic amenities could make the savings feel less enticing. Tesla has tried a similar approach before with the single-motor Cybertruck RWD, which launched as a stripped-down budget option but was quietly discontinued after just five months due to weak demand.
