Choosing winter tyres for the 2025 Standard Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y requires a little more care than for other Model Ys. This entry-level trim has its own original fitment and requires a kit specifically selected for it. Diameter, budget, traction: here’s how to kit it out properly before the first snowfall.
Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive winter wheels: why go for 18-inch
Sticking with 18-inch wheels means retaining a generous tyre sidewall that can withstand roads damaged by frost and protects the rim. Winter tyres in this diameter cost less than their 19- or 20-inch equivalents, and their modest width helps to plough through fresh snow. Above all, the 2025 Model Y Standard Rear-Wheel Drive was designed with efficiency in mind: 18-inch Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive winter wheels preserve what makes this version so appealing.
Three kits, three price points
Our dedicated selection features three complete sets of wheels, comprising rims and winter tyres fitted together. The 18-inch AL29 winter complete wheels (€889.90) form the entry-level option. The AT23 rims (€1,005.60) offer a more intricate design, whilst the UTECA 9 rims (€1,049.90) complete the range. The choice comes down mainly to style and finish: these Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive winter wheels are all designed for the same Model Y Standard 2025, with no modifications required. Take the time to look at the photos on each product page, as you’ll be living with this design for five months of the year.
Rear-wheel drive and snow: rear-wheel traction
With a single motor at the rear, your Model Y relies entirely on its rear wheels to move forward on snow. Traction control does a remarkable job, but it doesn’t create grip: that’s provided by the tyres. Hence the importance of tyres bearing the 3PMSF marking, as explained in our Tesla 3PMSF tyre guide. Switch to Chill mode, plan ahead for uphill sections and, in areas covered by the ‘Loi Montagne’ where winter tyres are not compulsory, fit snow chains or snow socks to the rear axle, as advised by securite-routiere.gouv.fr for two-wheel-drive vehicles. Carefully chosen Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive winter tyres will save you from having to carry out these tasks at the side of the road.
Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive winter tyres: preserving range
A winter tyre has slightly higher rolling resistance than a summer tyre, and cold weather already reduces range. To minimise this loss, inflate your tyres to the pressure specified on the door sticker, select your wheel configuration in the Maintenance menu and pre-condition the battery before setting off. Our Model Y Juniper in Winter guide details the settings specific to this generation.
Wheel trims and sensors: the details that matter
The 18-inch wheel trims on the Standard version clip onto the original rims: they do not fit on a winter wheel set with a different design, so store them with your summer wheels. As for tyre pressure sensors, check the kit specifications to see what’s included, and please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re unsure about your model year. To compare with other versions, our Model Y complete winter wheel guide covers the entire range.
- Exact model: Model Y Standard Rear-Wheel Drive 2025;
- 18-inch kit chosen according to style and budget;
- 3PMSF marking verified on the tyres;
- TPMS sensors and wheel configuration;
- original wheel trims stored with the summer wheels.
Frequently asked questions
Are the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive winter wheels from an older Model Y suitable? Not necessarily: brakes, offset and load capacity may differ; it is best to choose a set listed for the Standard 2025.
Can I switch to 19-inch wheels? Some combinations are possible, but 18-inch wheels remain the best compromise between comfort, range and cost.
When should the kit be fitted? Before 1 November if you’re driving in mountainous areas, and as soon as morning temperatures drop below 7 °C.
Do you also need snow chains? No, under the Mountain Code, provided you have 3PMSF-marked tyres, unless there’s a sign requiring snow chains.
Green Drive’s opinion
For the Model Y Standard Rear-Wheel Drive, an 18-inch winter kit is the most sensible solution: safe, economical and kind to your range. All three kits are available in our Model Y Standard 18-inch winter wheels section.
