The Tesla Model Y Performance brings serious pace to one of the UK’s best-known electric SUVs, combining dual-motor all-wheel drive with 460 HP, a 360-mile WLTP range and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds.
Unlike the previous Model Y Performance, this latest version gets a much more comprehensive set of upgrades, including revised aerodynamics, adaptive suspension, 21-inch wheels, performance seats and a larger 16-inch touchscreen.
With a UK starting price of £61,990, the Tesla Model Y Performance sits at the top of the Model Y range. Here’s everything you need to know about its performance, range, technology and UK pricing.
The Tesla Model Y Performance is the range-topping version of Tesla’s electric midsize SUV.
It uses a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and is designed to offer considerably more performance than the standard Model Y while retaining the practicality that makes the SUV appealing as an everyday car.
The Tesla Model Y Performance produces 460 HP and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds. It has a top speed of 155 mph, making it seriously quick for a family-focused electric SUV.
Tesla has also worked on the chassis, aerodynamics and battery technology rather than simply increasing the power output. That gives the Tesla Model Y Performance a more focused character without turning it into an impractical performance special.
The Tesla Model Y Performance gets several exterior changes that distinguish it from the standard Model Y.
The front and rear fascias have been redesigned for high-speed performance, while a new rear diffuser and carbon-fibre spoiler help improve aerodynamic performance.
Other visual upgrades include:
Tesla says the aerodynamic changes reduce drag by 10% and reduce lift by 64% compared with the earlier Model Y Performance.
The result is a more aggressive-looking SUV without losing the relatively clean design that has become associated with the Model Y.
Inside, the Tesla Model Y Performance gets its own performance-focused seats with additional side bolstering and powered thigh cushion extensions.
The front seats are also heated and ventilated, helping the cabin remain comfortable during everyday driving.
One of the biggest technology changes is the 16-inch central touchscreen. Tesla says it has nearly 80% more pixels than the 15.4-inch display fitted to other Model Y variants. An 8-inch screen is also provided for rear passengers.
Carbon-fibre trim inserts and aluminium pedals add to the sportier feel.
Despite the Performance upgrades, the Tesla Model Y Performance remains a five-seat SUV with up to 2,138 litres of cargo space with the seats folded.
This is where the Tesla Model Y Performance really stands out.
Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain produces 460 HP, allowing the SUV to reach 60 mph from rest in just 3.3 seconds.
That’s supercar-like acceleration from a practical five-seat electric SUV.
The Tesla Model Y Performance also has a 155 mph top speed, while its performance drive units have been engineered to cope with higher thermal and performance limits than previous versions.
Tesla has also fitted adaptive suspension and additional driving controls. The Sport setting changes damping control and steering response for more focused driving, while stability and traction settings can be adjusted through the touchscreen.
Performance EVs often sacrifice range for speed, but Tesla has tried to avoid that compromise with the Model Y Performance.
The official WLTP range is 360 miles, which is a strong figure considering the car’s acceleration and performance-focused specification. Tesla says the new battery cells offer higher energy density without adding weight.
As with any electric vehicle, real-world range will depend on factors such as speed, weather, temperature, driving style and elevation.
The Tesla Model Y Performance is also capable of DC fast charging through Tesla’s Supercharger network. Tesla currently quotes up to 151 miles of range added in 15 minutes, although charging performance varies depending on conditions and battery state of charge.
You can find the latest charging and vehicle information directly on Tesla’s Model Y page.
The Tesla Model Y Performance comes with a comprehensive technology package.
Standard equipment includes features such as:
Tesla also offers Full Self-Driving Capability as an option, although it is important to note that Tesla states Full Self-Driving (Supervised) is not currently available in the UK.
That means UK buyers should not assume that the vehicle can operate autonomously simply because the option is available to purchase.
The Tesla Model Y Performance launched in the UK with a starting price of £61,990.
That made it significantly more expensive than the entry-level Model Y, but the Performance model comes with substantially more power, all-wheel drive, larger wheels, upgraded suspension and a range of additional equipment.
Pricing can change, however, and Tesla is known for adjusting its UK prices and finance offers. Buyers should therefore check the current Tesla configurator before ordering.
The Tesla Model Y Performance faces increasingly strong competition from other fast electric SUVs.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is one of its most obvious rivals, offering even more performance-focused engineering and a very different driving character.
The Kia EV6 GT is another alternative, while more premium options such as the Porsche Macan Electric offer a more upmarket interior and badge but at a considerably higher price.
The Tesla Model Y Performance’s biggest advantage is the combination of speed, range, practicality and charging infrastructure.
For buyers who want an electric SUV that can comfortably handle family duties during the week while delivering sports-car levels of acceleration when required, it remains a compelling package.
You can also explore our guide to buying a used electric car if you’re considering a more affordable route into electric motoring.
The Tesla Model Y Performance is an impressive combination of practicality and outright speed.
With 460 HP, 3.3-second 0-60 mph acceleration, a 155 mph top speed and a claimed 360-mile WLTP range, the numbers are difficult to ignore.
More importantly, Tesla hasn’t simply added extra power. The Tesla Model Y Performance also gets revised aerodynamics, adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes, performance seats, larger wheels and a more advanced interior.
That makes it much more than a standard Model Y with a bigger motor.
For buyers who want a fast electric SUV that can still carry five people and plenty of luggage, the Tesla Model Y Performance makes a strong case for itself.
If outright performance isn’t essential, however, a less expensive Model Y could make more financial sense for everyday driving. And if you’re considering an alternative to buying new, you can compare used cars for sale on MotorHype.
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