Tesla’s refreshed Model Y Performance breaks cover ahead of launch

The high-performance variant of Tesla's updated Model Y, part of the "Juniper" refresh, has been spotted for the first time on public roads completely undisguised, revealing key styling changes that set it apart from its more sedate siblings.

Just when you thought the electric car world couldn't get any more predictable, Tesla pulls the camouflage off its latest creation, the 2026 Model Y Performance, during testing in the picturesque German Alps. Surprising absolutely no one, the sporty crossover was caught on camera by another passing Tesla, offering a clear glimpse of what's to come. This sighting follows earlier spy shots of a camouflaged version tearing up the Nürburgring Nordschleife, suggesting Tesla is in the final stages of fine-tuning its popular electric SUV.

🔥🔥 New Tesla Model Y Performance spotted uncovered in the Alps!

✅ Sporty rear bumper
✅ New 21” wheels
✅ Carbon fiber rear spoiler
✅ Performance badge

H/t @stenboo pic.twitter.com/Wo7kUm9ZXu

— Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) June 20, 2025

The refreshed Model Y Performance gets a few extra garnishes to broadcast its intentions. It shares the same updated, sleeker front bumper design as the standard refreshed Model Y, but the view from the back tells a different story. A unique, blacked-out rear bumper now features two small but noticeable diffusers. Their aerodynamic contribution is likely more for show than actual downforce, but they effectively distinguish the Performance variant from the standard Long Range model.

The significantly larger carbon fiber lip spoiler on the tailgate is a step up from the subtle spoiler on the previous model. This, together with a new set of exclusive 21-inch wheels, gives the electric crossover a more aggressive stance. A new badge, likely mimicking the "Plaid" or "Ludicrous" badge seen on its Model 3 Performance counterpart, is also present on the tailgate, because how else would anyone know you bought the fast one?

One interesting, though likely misleading, detail from the spy footage is the vehicle's color. It appeared to be a unique burnt orange, but this is probably a trick of the light. The side-repeater cameras on Teslas equipped with third-generation hardware are known to have a peculiar relationship with the color red, often making it appear orange due to a missing infrared cut filter. So, prospective buyers hoping for a new flashy color might have to settle for Tesla's existing Ultra Red.

Under the skin, the new Model Y Performance is expected to inherit the dual-motor powertrain from the recently unveiled Model 3 Performance. This setup delivers 510 horsepower and 554 lb-ft of torque. While the Model Y is slightly larger and heavier than its sedan sibling, this power should be more than enough to launch it from 0 to 60 mph in just over three seconds. This level of acceleration firmly places it in the "unnecessarily fast for the school run" category of electric cars, a segment that continues to grow.

The broader "Juniper" update for the Model Y line brings the SUV's design and interior in line with the refreshed Model 3. This includes a cleaner minimalist cabin, improved materials, ventilated front seats, and the addition of a rear-seat entertainment and climate control screen. Tesla has not officially announced pricing, but the Performance model will carry a premium over the Long Range AWD version. An official reveal is expected in the coming months as Tesla prepares to unleash its updated fast family hauler on the ever-expanding market of electric cars.

Via