Introducing New Model Y Performance
The Tesla Team, August 29, 2025
Throughout Tesla’s 22-year history, performance vehicles have been a core part of our product lineup.
Roadster, our first production vehicle, launched in 2008 as the world’s first fully electric sports car capable of delivering exhilarating acceleration with zero direct emissions. Later, Model S, Model X and Model 3 were all offered in Performance variants that set new benchmarks against reigning supercars.
At Tesla, our performance vehicles deliver first-class speed and handling, while prioritizing everyday comfort and efficiency. When we launched what would become the world’s bestselling car—Model Y—a Performance variant was available. We offered families a great all-round, high-performing vehicle. Today, we’re introducing the new Model Y Performance.
The Most Refined Model Y Ever
Our new Model Y Performance builds on improvements introduced earlier in 2025: extensive reengineering to maximize efficiency, comfort, connectivity and safety, along with a redesigned interior and exterior.
Performance-Focused Design
In addition to the features that come standard on all Model Y vehicles—such as a panoramic glass roof with acoustic glass throughout the cabin, an 8” second-row touchscreen, power-reclining second-row seats, Autopilot, over-the-air software updates and more—new Model Y Performance adds:
- Front and rear fascias upgraded for high-speed performance
- New 21” Arachnid 2.0 forged wheels with integrated aero covers for improved efficiency
- Performance red brake calipers
- Liftgate with Performance badging
- Puddle lamps with illuminated Performance badging
- Glossy black finishes on front fascia, rear fascia and mirror caps
- Carbon fiber spoiler for enhanced high-speed stability
- First-row Performance seats with powered thigh cushion extenders
- Carbon-fiber dash and door trim inserts
- Aluminum pedals
These upgrades give Model Y Performance a distinct look, making it recognizable on the road while staying true to Tesla’s sleek and functional signature design. The new front and rear fascias, new rear diffuser and carbon-fiber spoiler work together to create greater downforce, resulting in 10% less drag and 64% reduced lift for a 27% improvement overall in front-to-rear lift balance compared to earlier Model Y Performance vehicles.
Powertrain and Chassis Designed for Maximum Performance
Launched in 2024 with Model 3 Performance, our latest Performance drive unit—the Performance 4DU—delivers 16% more peak torque, 32% more peak power and 22% more continuous power. Capable of higher thermal and performance limits than previous generations, it gives new Model Y Performance quick acceleration and an elevated top speed without sacrificing efficiency.
An upgraded battery pack equipped with new cells offering higher energy density without adding weight. New Model Y Performance delivers 460HP, accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. It achieves a consumption of 16.2 kWh/100 km, unlocking 580 km WLTP of range, making it one of the most efficient performance EVs available on the road today.
Also borrowed from Model 3 Performance is our proprietary adaptive suspension technology. Designed in-house by our engineering and software teams, tailored specifically for new Model Y Performance, an all-new control algorithm delivers a balanced ride and handling character optimized for all driving scenarios. The next-generation ride controller has been engineered to deliver a smoother, more refined ride while enhancing handling. Our teams pushed industry standards to create an adaptive suspension system that adjusts in real-time to driver and road inputs, expanding the vehicle’s performance envelope and capability.
All-new 21" Arachnid 2.0 Wheels, paired with new staggered tires, work with the adaptive suspension to provide drivers with smooth, precise control and a responsive driving experience. The tires not only enhance handling but also deliver a more comfortable, quieter ride with improved range. Full dynamic potential is unlocked with upgraded knuckles and refined kinematics.
New Model Y Performance benefits from upgraded chassis hardware that matches the increased performance of the powertrain. New springs, stabilizer bars and bushings result in a chassis that feels more intuitive and responsive. The front suspension geometry is designed to minimize disturbances from road imperfections and provide more predictable steering. Improvements to the rear body structure increase torsional stiffness.
Customizable Drive Modes
Extensively tested across a variety of road types, scenarios and surfaces, we have developed a cohesive package designed to deliver everyday usability while thrilling passengers with adrenaline-charged performance. From high-speed runs to dynamic driving conditions, the vehicle has undergone rigorous validation and tuning—including at the Nürburgring track in Germany—to ensure precise calibration for the diverse environments owners encounter in the real world.
We are introducing new options in our adjustable Drive Modes:
- Adaptive Suspension: Customizable ride and handling experience through preset damping modes:
- Standard: Offers a relaxed character with elevated comfort while remaining well-controlled and engaging to drive in all conditions.
- Sport: Enhances damping control for faster settling times, strengthening connection with the road during focused driving and improving steering response while still adapting to rougher road surfaces.
- Standard: Prioritizes vehicle stability in all driving scenarios.
- Reduced: Prioritizes performance and driver enjoyment by minimizing traction control interventions during sporty driving. Traction and Vehicle Dynamics Controls remain active as safety nets if limits are exceeded.
These additional settings allow for greater freedom and a more engaging driving experience. All settings are easily accessible through the intuitive center touchscreen, allowing quick adjustments to vehicle dynamics.
Curated Cabin
Unique to new Model Y Performance are our first-row performance seats. Featuring enhanced side cushions and bolsters, they are designed to provide superior lateral support during dynamic driving without compromising everyday comfort. An adjustable powered thigh cushion extender ensures a perfect seating position for drivers and passengers of all sizes. Ventilation and heating come standard, working seamlessly with the climate controls.
At the center of the dash is an all-new 16” touchscreen with thinner bezels and higher resolution. It offers nearly 80% more pixels than the 15.4” display on other Model Y variants, delivering a smoother and more immersive experience.
New Model Y Performance is built at Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg for Europe.