The Tesla Model Y Performance Is Undergoing The Ultimate Test Before Launch
The Tesla Model Y requires little introduction. The compact crossover is America’s best-selling EV and second-best-selling non-pickup truck behind the Toyota RAV4. Earlier this year, Tesla launched the refreshed Model Y (Codename: Juniper) into production. The brand has already released Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive and Long Range All-Wheel Drive variants.
- Base Trim Engine
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Electric
- Base Trim Transmission
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Single Speed Automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
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All-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
425 HP
- Fuel Economy
-
120 MPGe Combined
Next up for Tesla should be a Performance All-Wheel Drive version of the updated Model Y. Tesla has not officially revealed it yet; Model Y buyers with a need for speed must currently add a performance upgrade to the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive. But what looks like a camouflaged Model Y Performance prototype has been spotted lapping the infamous Nürburgring, the ultimate test before it’s unleashed in the wild.
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Expected Model Y ‘Juniper’ Performance Specs
Tesla has not yet announced any performance numbers for a Performance trim of the Model Y ‘Juniper’. However, we can expect the Performance trim to closely track the Model 3 Performance. We know that version has 510 horsepower and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds (vs. 4.2 seconds for the Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel-Drive).
The Model Y Performance should deliver a quicker 0-60 mph time than the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive, perhaps the low 3s, and a higher top speed above 125 mph. The increased performance will likely come with an EPA range dip below 300 miles.
|
Expected Tesla Model Y Performance Specifications |
|
|---|---|
|
Engine |
Dual Electric |
|
Power |
510 hp |
|
Torque |
547 lb-ft |
|
0-60 |
2.9 Seconds |
Other Model Y Juniper Performance All-Wheel Drive Features
The Performance version of the Model Y should offer similar features to the Model 3 Performance. Those could include the following features found on that vehicle:
- A redesigned front and rear fascia, with a rear diffuser and a carbon fiber spoiler
- An adaptive suspension
- Track Mode V3 with the ability to customize handling balance, stability, and braking regeneration
- Bolstered sport seats
- Lightweight forged performance wheels
- High-performance brakes
- Carbon-fiber detailing on the interior
Possible 2026 Model Y Performance Pricing And Availability
Tesla has not made any official announcements regarding the availability and pricing of the Model Y Performance yet. Judging from previous Tesla launches, that information will likely show up on the online configurator when Tesla is ready to sell it. Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, told Jay Leno in February that subsequent Model Y variants would launch later in 2025.
Tesla pricing can fluctuate. But with the Model 3, the Performance All-Wheel Drive trim costs $7,500 more than the Long Range All-Wheel Drive. If we presume the upgrade costs the same on the Model Y, that would start the Model Y Performance All-Wheel Drive at $56,490.
