Introduction
Tesla’s refreshed Model Y Performance, unveiled in late August, is already generating strong positive reactions—even from outlets usually critical of the company and its CEO, Elon Musk. With meaningful upgrades inside and out, the crossover is being praised for combining athletic styling, comfort, and speed in a more refined package.
Early Reviews
Swedish automotive publication CarUp.se offered a particularly enthusiastic review, highlighting the redesigned sport seats as a breakthrough feature. The seats, now equipped with powered thigh extensions similar to those in the China-produced Model Y L, were praised for significantly enhancing driving comfort. According to the outlet, the driving position makes passengers “sit like a king,” while acceleration ensures it remains “extremely fast at red lights.”
The review also emphasized the exterior styling, noting that the refreshed design makes it unmistakably recognizable as a Performance model. Unlike its more understated predecessor, the updated version now projects a sportier, more premium image, closer in spirit to Tesla’s flagship Plaid models.
Design and Styling Enhancements
The Model Y Performance receives a series of exclusive updates that set it apart from other trims. These include:
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Redesigned front and rear bumpers
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Red brake calipers
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New wheels
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Carbon fiber rear spoiler
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Performance badging and projection lighting
Together, these features give the crossover a more dynamic appearance while reinforcing its status as Tesla’s sport-oriented SUV.
Interior Comfort and Driving Dynamics
Inside, the most significant upgrade comes from the new front sport seats, which offer improved lateral support without compromising long-distance comfort. This aligns with Tesla’s goal of balancing practicality with high-performance characteristics. The vehicle also introduces adaptive suspension technology, offering preset damping modes that adjust to different driving conditions.
Performance and Range
Under the hood, the updated Model Y Performance produces 460 horsepower and achieves a top speed of 250 km/h. Efficiency is rated at 16.2 kWh per 100 km, with a WLTP range of up to 580 km. This combination of speed, range, and efficiency underscores Tesla’s effort to deliver a performance SUV that remains practical for everyday use.
Availability
Production of the new Model Y Performance is underway at Tesla’s Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg. The vehicle is initially available in Europe and the Middle East, with customer deliveries expected to begin within the next one to two months.
Conclusion
With its stronger visual identity, enhanced driving dynamics, and improved comfort, the updated Model Y Performance is shaping up to be one of Tesla’s most compelling releases in recent years. Early reviews suggest that even long-time skeptics are acknowledging its appeal, positioning it as a standout option in the growing electric SUV market.