Update: The story has been revised following Tesla’s global announcement.
Following in the footsteps of the standard Model Y, the Tesla Model Y Performance has undergone its first facelift, and will reach buyers in Europe in the coming weeks. Aimed at enthusiasts, the new Model Y Performance incorporates a host of upgrades inside and out.
Tesla has released some product details and a few photographs, and we’ll update this story when we get info on the U.S. launch.
Design
The refreshed Model Y Performance gets redesigned front and rear bumpers with a unique black element, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, and optimized aerodynamics. The top-end variant rides on exclusive 21-inch Arachnid 2.0 wheels wrapped in new staggered Pirelli P Zero E tires (275/35 R21 at the rear). Red brake calipers and a lowered suspension differentiate it from other trims.
At the rear, a new diffuser, carbon spoiler, and full-width light bar enhance the sporty stance. A wide-spaced Tesla script and Performance badge distinguish it further from the standard Model Y.
Interior
The new Tesla Model Y Performance borrows the basic interior from the upgraded standard model, but comes with several upgrades.
It is appointed with sport seats that feature power recline, heating, ventilation, and a power-adjustable thigh extender. The dashboard and doors are finished with carbon fiber trim, while a new 16-inch ultra high-definition center screen replaces the 15.4-inch display in other trims.
Rear passengers gain heated, power-reclining seats and an 8-inch touchscreen for media, climate, and gaming. As with the other variants, cabin quietness is improved with additional acoustic glass, new body sealing, and premium sound-damping materials. A 15-speaker audio system with a subwoofer is included.
Ride & Handling
The new Performance trim introduces adaptive damping that continuously adjusts to road conditions. Tesla has added exclusive selectable drive modes, giving drivers greater control on the highway or track. A staggered wheel and tire setup promises to improve grip and steering precision.
Safety
Tesla says the Model Y Performance comes with nine airbags, including a far-side airbag for the driver. The vehicle now uses eight exterior cameras, with a new front-facing unit to support enhanced driver assistance features. In many global markets, basic Autopilot remains standard, with FSD Supervised available pending regulatory approval.
Performance
Tesla lists the new Model Y Performance at 3.5 seconds 0–100 km/h (~3.3 seconds 0–60 mph U.S. estimate), with a top speed of 163 mph. Importantly, a new high-density battery pack improves efficiency, with WLTP range rated at 580 km (360 miles), which is 1% lower than that of the Long Range AWD version. If the same pack is offered in the refreshed U.S. model, that would translate to about 324 miles (EPA) in the U.S.!
A 15-minute Supercharge session can add up to 243 km (151 miles) of range in Europe.
Price & Release Date
We’re starting with the Launch Edition, and then all the other variants—the dual-motor, base edition rear-wheel drive, Performance, and seven-seater options—those will come later in the year.
Lars Moravy, VP of Vehicle Engineering, Tesla (Jay Leno’s Garage on February 10, 2025)
We anticipate that Tesla will launch the new Model Y Performance in the following months in the U.S., with prices starting at around $57,000 (excl. tax credits, taxes, and fees). Lars Moravy, Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, confirmed on Jay Leno’s Garage (via YouTube) earlier this year that the new Model Y Performance is in the pipeline and due later this year. We’re also expecting the 7-seater to arrive at dealers in the coming months.
Competitors
The 2026 Model Y Performance will have to contend with stiff competition. Many of its current alternatives have gotten better with recent model years, and a few others are set to join in 2026. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Chevrolet Blazer EV SS, Acura ZDX Type S, Cadillac Lyriq-V and the Kia EV6 GT will be the main contenders. Performance variants of the Rivian R2 and the Lucid midsize SUV will also join the race within two years.
Featured Image: Tesla
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
