2026 Tesla Model Y Performance revealed: Hot EV quicker, meaner-looking than before

The facelifted Tesla Model Y Performance has been revealed, and it’s the quickest and most aggressive-looking version of the brand’s mid-size electric SUV so far.

The hot crossover SUV has been revealed for Europe and the Middle East, where customer deliveries will begin in September. Australian release timing has yet to be announced; unlike those markets, our Model Y is made in China.

Still featuring a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain, the Model Y Performance now does the 0-100km/h dash in a claimed 3.5 seconds – down from 3.7 seconds. Top speed is still 250km/h.

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Tesla doesn’t quote power and torque outputs, but it’s expected the Model Y Performance shares its electric motors with the upgraded Model 3 Performance sedan released last year.

The company has confirmed the hot SUV features new, high-voltage battery cells, though it hasn’t specified the capacity. The change has allowed its electric range on the WLTP test cycle to be boosted from 514km to 580km.

It can be fast-charged at up to 250kW on DC power, and energy consumption is listed at 16.2 kWh/100km (WLTP).

As with the facelifted Model 3 Performance, the Model Y Performance now features electronic continuously variable damping.

You can toggle between traction control profiles, though it’s unclear whether the Model Y Performance will feature Track Mode or the ability to adjust the power split front to rear as you can with the Model 3 Performance.

Cosmetic changes give it a more aggressive look than before, headlined by 21-inch ‘Arachnid 2.0’ alloy wheels shod with Pirelli tyres. Behind these sit red brake calipers.

The Performance flagship is 1611mm tall, 13mm lower than the regular Model Y.

There are unique front and rear bumpers, while down back there’s a larger spoiler than before, made of carbon-fibre.

Inside, there are heated and ventilated Performance Sport Seats with power-adjustable thigh cushion extenders and greater bolstering than the standard pews, as well as special badging.

As with other facelifted Model Ys, the rear seats are perforated, heated and feature power reclining, and there’s an 8.0-inch touchscreen.

There’s also carbon-fibre interior trim, while the main touchscreen measures 16 inches – up from 15.4 inches in other Model Ys, and matching the new Chinese-built Model Y L.

The Model Y Performance will battle a growing contingent of high-performance mid-size electric SUVs, which in China includes the Xiaomi YU7 and which in Australia includes the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Kia EV6 GT, among others.

MORE: Explore the Tesla Model Y showroom