Tesla has officially rolled out its refreshed Model Y Performance in the U.S., with orders now open and a base price of $57,500 before incentives. This marks the arrival of the top-end version of the updated Y lineup in North America, following its earlier introduction in Europe.
What’s New & Key Specifications
Design & Features
The Performance variant shares many of the styling updates introduced in Tesla’s January 2025 Model Y refresh (codenamed “Juniper”), including revised front and rear bumpers, slimmer lighting elements, and refined aerodynamics. But it also gets its own distinguishing touches: carbon-fiber rear spoiler, red brake calipers, and 21-inch Arachnid wheels.
Inside, the Performance trim receives upgraded seats with larger side bolsters and powered thigh cushion extenders for greater comfort and support.
There’s also adaptive suspension and tuning borrowed from the Model 3 Performance, with new springs, roll bars, and stiffer rear structure to enhance handling and body rigidity. Tesla also claims new, higher-density battery cells that help support faster charging compared with prior versions.
Performance & Range
Under the skin, the Model Y Performance is a dual-motor all-wheel drive vehicle, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.3 seconds. Top Gear notes that Tesla preserved performance DNA by integrating adaptive damping, tuned suspension, and adding stiffness to the structure.
As for range, the EPA-estimated figure for this version is 308 miles (approximately 496 km) on a full charge. That puts it slightly behind the non-Performance versions, but still competitive for its performance level.
Pricing, Incentives & Strategy
Tesla’s $57,500 U.S. starting price for the new Model Y Performance is before any federal or state incentives. The timing of this launch is notable, as it’s close to the expiration deadline for the U.S. federal EV tax credit (around September 30, 2025) — buyers who place binding orders before then may still be eligible for up to $7,500 in credit.
In the press coverage, there’s speculation that Tesla timed this release to give buyers just enough time to take advantage of the tax credit before it disappears.
Market Positioning & Implications
By introducing the high-performance version now, Tesla is filling out the top end of its refreshed Model Y range in the U.S. Earlier this year, Tesla rolled out the less aggressive trims (non-Performance) following the refresh.
The Performance model offers an appealing option for buyers looking for sportiness in an electric SUV, combining everyday utility with enthusiastic driving dynamics. Given Tesla’s strong brand in EVs and its ability to fine-tune software and hardware incrementally, this variant helps maintain interest and differentiation.
That said, from a buyer’s perspective, the incremental cost over lower trims will need to justify the performance upgrades, especially given that EV incentives and tax credit timing play a big role in the final out-of-pocket cost.