Updated Tesla Model Y Performance revealed at a bargain price
Tesla’s mid-size SUV has returned in its high-performing Performance trim for a surprisingly low £61,990
Serious performance doesn’t come at much better value than in a top-spec Tesla, and the new Tesla Model Y Performance is the latest case in point. Priced in the UK at £61,990, the hot SUV is only £990 more than the updated Model Y’s ‘Launch Edition’, but offers considerable upgrades.
The Model Y range opens at £45,000 with the long range model available from £49,000. You can currently lease a new Tesla Model Y from £430 a month through Auto Express Buy A Car.
The new Model Y Performance shares many of the new elements from the Tesla Model 3 Performance, which in its latest generation picked up much-needed chassis upgrades to go with the extraordinary performance on offer. But there are a few rivals, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, that are still nipping at its new 21-inch wheels.
How fast is the 2025 Tesla Model Y Performance?
Tesla says that its new Model Y Performance will hit 60mph in 3.3 seconds – this is 0.2 seconds faster than the previous version, but 0.4 seconds down on the fastest Model 3. It’ll hit a limited top speed of 155mph.
To reach these figures Tesla has fitted upgraded electric motors that produce a combined 460bhp. A key focus of the motor upgrades has been their resilience, with Tesla saying these new units are capable of repeated high-speed runs and have better thermal management.
Within Tesla’s drive modes, you can also individually set up the powertrain to offer a rearward bias to the torque split that’s intended to deliver a more engaging drive. As usual, Tesla doesn’t quote a battery size, but it has said that compared to standard Model Ys the battery cells have been redesigned and upgraded.
Is this power going to ruin the Model Y’s range?
Not as much as you might think. The powertrain having a wider thermal operating window means it remains more efficient more of the time, so Tesla is confidently quoting a 360-mile range. This is only a few miles less than the standard Model Y Dual Motor, despite the Performance having more power and bigger, energy-sapping wheels and tyres.
How well will it go around corners?
As it did with the current Tesla Model 3 Performance, the American brand has actually put some effort into developing the hot Model Y’s chassis to make sure it can handle its grunt. The previous version had a reputation for being something of a wild ride – this should be mitigated this time around.
The hardware side of this includes new 21-inch wheels and Pirelli P Zero tyres, plus adaptive suspension that is said to work with new suspension geometry and a lower ride height to improve steering feel and give a sporty, more locked-down feeling.
The exterior design has also been given a few unique additions, including a more aggressive front and rear bumper, plus a carbon fibre wing mounted on the bootlid.
What else do you need to know about the fastest Model Y?
The rest of the package is as per the current updated Model Y range, so its Cybertruck-inspired front light bar still dominates what is, in reality, a very common shape on European roads.
The cabin is fitted with a new 16-inch display with thinner surrounds, plus a pair of more supportive front seats. The Performance badges reference those from Tesla’s Model S Plaid super saloon and add the final bit of kudos to the interior and exterior styling.
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