New Tesla Model Y Performance Turns Supercar Thrills Into A Bargain Family Affair

Tesla’s latest addition to its lineup is a sharper, faster take on the world’s best-selling EV. The new 2026 Model Y Performance borrows much from the latest Model 3 Performance, combining dual-motor muscle with a reworked suspension, fresh styling, and sport seats. The goal is simple: deliver a family-friendly crossover that feels closer to a supercar than a school-run shuttle while keeping the price within reach.

From the outside, the flagship Y sets itself apart with a subtle but aggressive bodykit and a set of exclusive 21-inch Arachnid 2.0 wheels, complete with red brake calipers. The redesigned front bumper intakes, carbon spoiler extension, deeper diffuser, extra vents in the rear bumper, and a unique tailgate badge all help underline its range-topping status without overdoing it.

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Inside, the Model Y Performance gains new sports seats with integrated headrests and stronger bolstering, complete with heating, ventilation, and electric adjustment. The dashboard is trimmed in carbon fiber and now frames a larger 16-inch infotainment display, an upgrade from the standard 15.4-inch unit, with sharper resolution. Rounding out the cabin, a 15-speaker audio system with a subwoofer comes standard.

Performance with Numbers to Match

The Model Y Performance has dual electric motors giving it AWD capabilities. While Tesla hasn’t published official output figures, reports suggest the European version produces 460 hp (343 kW / 466 PS). The North American-spec model is expected to be stronger, delivering 510 hp (380 kW / 517 PS), matching the Model 3 Performance.

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What we know from the brand’s official website is that the most powerful version of the crossover sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.5 seconds, or 0 to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. That’s 0.2 seconds quicker than the outgoing Model Y Performance, though still 0.4 seconds slower than the lighter Model 3 Performance and 0.1 seconds behind the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Top speed remains electronically capped at 250 km/h (155 mph).

Suspension and Handling

In terms of chassis setup, the Model Y Performance swaps the frequency selective dampers of the regular version for a new set of electronically controlled continuously variable dampers. The system is similar to that of the Model 3 Performance but tuned specifically for the crossover. It’s paired with upgraded suspension hardware, staggered wheels, and new Drive Modes, including the option to configure the powertrain with a rearward torque bias for a more engaging drive.

Range and Charging

Despite the added performance, the Model Y Performance maintains a respectable WLTP range of 580 km (360 miles), just 6 km (4 miles) shy of the Long Range AWD version. Credit goes to high-density battery cells with increased charge capacity, paired with the new powertrain that offers a wider thermal operating window, improving overall efficiency. Hooked up to a Supercharger, the crossover can recover up to 243 km (151 miles) of range in only 15 minutes.

Pricing and Availability

The new Model Y Performance is already available to order in Europe, UK, the Middle East, and Africa, with deliveries scheduled to begin in September 2025.

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In Germany, it’s priced at €61,990 ($72,400), which comes in €9,000 ($10,500) higher than the Long Range. In the UK, the figure is £61,990 ($79,000), or £10,000 ($12,800) more than the updated Model Y Long Range AWD. And for anyone who bought the “Launch Edition,” the difference is just £990 ($1,270), basically paying extra for the privilege of feeling a bit ripped off later.

At the moment, details for North America, including availability, have not been confirmed, though they are expected to follow soon.

Tesla