Tesla has rolled out the latest version of its popular Model Y, bringing its top-spec Model Y Performance to showrooms with first deliveries expected in October. The Performance model sits about £10,000 above the Long Range version and targets buyers seeking sportier acceleration without sacrificing SUV practicality.
Key details include a 0-60 mph time of about 3.3 seconds, placing it in the same performance league as some high-end sports cars, while delivering a claimed range of around 360 miles on a single charge. Power comes from upgraded drive units producing roughly 454 bhp, with a top speed of 155 mph.
Tesla says the Model Y Performance benefits from aerodynamic refinements at the front and rear, new 21-inch wheels, a subtle carbon fibre spoiler on the tail, and gloss black accents including the door mirrors. Inside, you’ll find a larger central touchscreen—16 inches with thinner bezels and higher resolution—plus sportier front seats and carbon fibre trim on the dash and doors. There are also Performance badges on the boot and in the puddle lamps.
The aero and chassis tweaks contribute to a claimed 10 percent reduction in drag and a 64 percent decrease in lift, improving front-to-rear balance by about 27 percent versus the previous Performance model. Adaptive suspension remains a hallmark of the package, with a computer-controlled system tuned specifically for the MYP’s larger footprint. New 21-inch wheels and bespoke tyres are said to enhance ride comfort, handling and grip, while the suspension offers multiple driving modes via the touchscreen, including a Standard mode for comfort and a Sport mode for a tighter, more responsive feel.
In terms of practicality, the Model Y Performance also delivers a longer-range battery pack and a more expansive interior display, alongside the expected everyday usability of a five-seat SUV. The car is already on display at Tesla retailers and is set to hit deliveries within a few weeks.
Pricing and market positioning show the growing competition in the EV SUV space. In the UK, the Model Y Performance is priced at £61,990, about £10k more than the Long Range AWD model, which does 0-60 mph in roughly 4.6 seconds.
Speaking of competition, a new rival is entering the arena: the MG IM6 Performance. MG claims the IM6 can sprint from 0-62 mph in about 3.5 seconds—nearly matching the Model Y Performance in a straight line—yet undercuts Tesla on price, with the Launch Edition IM6 listed around £52,995 and the standard IM6 at £50,995. The IM6’s claimed range sits around 313 miles, which is less than the Model Y Performance, but MG argues it will charge faster than the Tesla in many real-world conditions.
What this means for buyers is that high-performance electric SUVs are becoming more accessible, with Tesla pushing refinement and range, while MG and other rivals strive to offer quicker acceleration at a lower price. For those prioritizing speed and premium features in a practical family SUV, the Model Y Performance remains a leading option, while price-conscious buyers may find competitive value in the newer MG IM6 Performance.
Additional note: buyers should consider real-world range and charging speed under their typical driving conditions, as EV performance can vary with temperature, terrain, and usage of climate control. Overall, Tesla’s latest Model Y Performance reinforces the brand’s push to blend performance with everyday usability as the EV market grows more competitive.