The 2025 Tesla Model Y Performance finally arrives with a refreshed dual-motor AWD design, delivering supercar-level acceleration in a practical family SUV format, starting at approximately $69,000 (estimated). This comprehensive guide explores Tesla’s most thrilling SUV variant, combining track-capability performance with everyday family practicality.
Close-up of Tesla Model Y Performance front wheel with black rim and red brake caliper.
The 2025 Model Y Performance features distinctive performance styling upgrades differentiating it from standard variants, with aggressive aerodynamics and purposeful visual elements.
Exterior Dimensions:
- Length: 4,790 mm
- Width: 1,982 mm with mirrors: 2,140 mm
- Height: 1,625 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,890 mm
- Ground Clearance: 167 mm
- Curb Weight: Approximately 2,150 kg (4,740 lbs) with performance equipment
Performance-Specific Exterior Elements
20-Inch Forged Performance Wheels: Exclusive staggered design (wider rear than front) wrapped in high-performance tires
Red Brake Calipers: Distinctive red brakes with Tesla logo create powerful visual statement
Carbon Fiber Spoiler: Optional or standard depending on market, providing genuine aerodynamic downforce
Lowered Suspension: Sport-tuned suspension lowers ride height by approximately 10-15 mm, creating aggressive stance
Unique Paint Option: Ultra Red paint emphasizes performance character
Performance and Dual-Motor AWD Drivetrain
The Model Y Performance represents the ultimate expression of family SUV performance, with dual motors optimized for rapid acceleration and dynamic handling.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Motor Configuration: Dual motors (Induction front, PMSM rear)
- Combined Power: 670 hp (500 kW) – Europe; 510 hp (380 kW) – North America
- Combined Torque: Approximately 493 Nm (364 lb-ft)
- 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph): 3.3-3.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 233 km/h (145 mph)
- 1/4 Mile: Approximately 12.1 seconds
- Drive Configuration: All-Wheel Drive with dual motors
- Max Sustained Power: Higher continuous power output vs. Long Range AWD
The 3.3-second 0-60 acceleration is genuinely supercar-equivalent, matching Porsche 911 and BMW M3 acceleration while delivering seven-seat family practicality. The dual motors provide balanced power delivery with torque-vectoring for dynamic handling.
Battery Type: Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt (NMC) high-density cells
Total Capacity: Approximately 82-85 kWh
Usable Capacity: 80-83 kWh
Architecture: 400V system optimized for performance
EPA Estimated Range: 298-310 miles (480-500 km)
WLTP Range: 580 km (360 miles)
Real-World Range: 280-300 miles in typical mixed driving
Performance driving reduces effective range due to higher energy consumption and aggressive acceleration characteristics.
- Urban/Mixed Driving: 350-400 km per charge with moderate driving
- Spirited Driving (Frequent Acceleration): 280-320 km
- Highway at 75 mph (120 km/h): 300-330 km
- Cold Weather (-7°C / 20°F): 220-260 km with heating
- Track/Performance Driving: 200-240 km due to high consumption
Energy consumption varies dramatically with driving style: 12.5 kWh/100 km with gentle driving vs. 25-45 kWh/100 km with aggressive performance driving.
AC Charging:
- Maximum Power: 11 kW
- 10-100% Home Charging: Approximately 8-9 hours
DC Fast Charging (Supercharger):
- Maximum Power: 250 kW
- 10-80% Charging Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
- 80-100% Charging Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
- 150 Miles Added in 15 Minutes: 144 miles (232 km) in testing
Charging Costs:
- Full charge at home: $12.80-$15.60
- Daily 50-mile commute: $2.05-$2.50
- Annual equivalent: $493-$600
Interior and Performance Comfort
9-inch touchscreen dashboard display for Tesla Model 3/Y featuring CarPlay and Android Auto support.
The Model Y Performance interior combines premium comfort with performance-oriented appointments, differentiating it from standard variants.
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers (7-seater option available)
Front Seats: 10-way power-adjustable with heating and ventilation
- Performance-tuned firmness for better body control
- Enhanced lateral support for spirited driving
- Heated seats standard
Rear Seats: Heated rear seats with three-zone climate
- Comfortable for family use despite performance orientation
- 60/40 split-folding for cargo expansion
Premium Interior Appointments:
- Premium vegan leather throughout
- Unique Performance interior trim packages
- Carbon fiber accents on Performance model
- Alcantara steering wheel grip
- Performance pedals
Acoustic Excellence:
- Acoustic laminated glass all around
- Premium sound insulation
- Library-quiet cabin at all speeds
Advanced Climate Control:
- Three-zone independent climate
- Preconditioning via mobile app
- Heated rear seats and windshield
- Advanced thermal management for performance
Central Touchscreen: 16-inch display (larger than standard models)
Functions: Navigation, Track Mode interface, performance telemetry, vehicle control
The Performance includes enhanced Track Mode interface displaying:
- Real-time lap timing
- Acceleration telemetry
- Brake temperature monitoring
- Power management settings
- Performance data logging
8-inch rear touchscreen with independent control over climate and entertainment
Premium Audio (16-17 speakers):
- Dual subwoofers
- Independent amplifiers
- Spatial audio processing
- High-fidelity reproduction
Performance Features: Track Mode
Track Mode, exclusive to the Performance variant, fundamentally transforms the vehicle for closed-circuit driving:
What Track Mode Controls:
- Stability and traction control adjustments for drifting capability
- Regenerative braking reconfiguration
- Thermal management increase for sustained performance
- Suspension damping optimization
- Powertrain cooling enhancement
Power Management Options:
- Standard Mode: Maximum power for fastest lap times
- Increased Mode: Slightly reduced high-speed power for multi-lap endurance
- Maximum Mode: Conservative power output for consistent lap performance
Lap Timer and Telemetry:
Real-time lap timing, delta tracking vs. fastest lap, and performance data logging provide competitive feedback for improvement.
Sport-Tuned Suspension:
- Adaptive dampers with hollow piston rods
- Multi-sectional stabilizer bars
- Ultra-high strength steel springs
- Approximately 15 mm lower ride height
- Stiffer suspension than Long Range AWD
The suspension provides noticeably firmer handling with excellent body control, though the trade-off is firmer ride over rough surfaces.
The Performance includes all safety systems plus enhanced autonomous capabilities:
All safety systems identical to Long Range AWD
- Enhanced Autopilot for highway autonomy
- Full Self-Driving capability
- Track-optimized braking systems
Winter and Cold Weather Performance
The Performance experiences typical winter range losses:
Winter Range Impact:
- Cold Weather Loss: 25-30% typical at -7°C (20°F)
- At 56 mph in winter: 360-410 km estimated range
- At 75 mph in winter: 270-310 km estimated range
- At 87 mph in winter: 220-250 km estimated range
Cold Weather Tips:
- Preheat cabin while plugged in
- Use heated seats rather than cabin heat
- Keep tire pressure slightly elevated
- Winter tires recommended for optimal safety
Basic Vehicle Limited Warranty
- Duration: 4 years or 80,000 km
- Coverage: Manufacturing defects, materials, workmanship
Battery and Drive Unit Warranty
- Duration: 8 years or 192,000 km
- Minimum Capacity Retention: 70% guaranteed
- Coverage: Battery, dual drive units, power electronics, thermal management
Model Y Performance insurance averages $1,300-$1,500 annually (highest of Model Y variants due to replacement cost and performance profile):
5-Year Total: $6,500-$7,500
- Full charge: $12.80-$15.60
- Daily 50-mile commute: $2.05-$2.50
- Annual equivalent: $493-$600
Performance tires wear faster than standard tires due to high-performance compound and aggressive driving:
- Tire replacement cost: $300-$500 per tire
- Tire life: Potentially 30,000-40,000 miles with spirited driving vs. 60,000+ miles with gentle use
- Brake maintenance: More frequent inspection recommended
5-Year Maintenance Estimate: $1,500-$2,500 (higher than standard models due to tire wear)
- Insurance: $6,500-$7,500
- Charging: $2,465-$3,000
- Maintenance/Tires: $1,500-$2,500
- Registration: $1,000-$2,000
- Total: $11,465-$15,000
After federal tax credit, effective purchase price becomes $61,500, making ownership costs comparable to mid-range luxury performance vehicles.
The Model Y Performance delivers one of the most thrilling family vehicle experiences available, combining supercar acceleration with practical everyday usability.
The 3.3-second 0-60 acceleration is genuinely moving, with smooth linear power delivery from dual motors. No turbo lag, no transmission hesitation—just pure acceleration. The sensation remains addictive even after months of ownership.
The 0.9-second advantage over Long Range AWD makes a noticeable real-world difference, particularly during highway merging and city driving.
The sport-tuned suspension and dual motor torque vectoring create exceptionally responsive handling. Body control is tight, with minimal body roll through corners. The car communicates road surface through steering and suspension, providing genuine feedback.
While not a dedicated track car, the Model Y Performance proves capable on closed-circuit driving with Track Mode enabled. Two to three hot laps are achievable before thermal management limits sustained performance.
Despite performance orientation, the Model Y Performance remains practical for family duties. The seven-seat option accommodates larger families, and cargo capacity matches standard variants. Heated seats and climate control optimize passenger comfort in all seasons.
The Porsche starts at $87,000—$18,000 more than Model Y Performance. The Porsche offers traditional luxury and heritage, but the Tesla is faster (3.3 vs. 4.2 seconds 0-60), more efficient, and provides superior technology. The Tesla’s price advantage is compelling.
The BMW X5 M starts at $103,000—$34,000 more expensive than the Model Y Performance. The BMW offers iconic performance and luxury heritage, but the Tesla delivers comparable acceleration with better efficiency and lower operating costs.
The $20,000 premium over Long Range AWD delivers:
- 1.3 seconds faster 0-60 acceleration (3.3 vs. 4.6 seconds)
- 70 additional horsepower (670 vs. 515 hp)
- Sport-tuned suspension for better handling
- Track Mode capability for circuit driving
- Performance aesthetic (red calipers, carbon fiber spoiler)
- Enhanced braking capability
The premium is justified for performance enthusiasts but excessive for families prioritizing practicality.
✓ Supercar Acceleration: 3.3-second 0-60 matches $100,000+ performance vehicles
✓ Track Capability: Exclusive Track Mode for closed-circuit driving
✓ Excellent Value: $69,000 for performance matching $100,000+ alternatives
✓ Family Practicality: Seven-seat option, spacious cargo, comfort features
✓ All-Weather Capability: AWD system provides confidence in adverse conditions
✓ Advanced Braking: Performance-tuned brakes provide excellent stopping power
✓ Premium Comfort: Heated seats, climate control, premium audio
✓ Low Operating Costs: Minimal maintenance vs. traditional performance SUVs
⚠ Reduced Range: 298-310 miles EPA range lower than Long Range AWD
⚠ Aggressive Tire Wear: Performance tires wear faster, increasing replacement costs
⚠ Firm Suspension: Sport-tuned setup is noticeably firmer than standard variants
⚠ Limited Track Endurance: Brakes and thermal management limit sustained track performance
⚠ Premium Price: $20,000 more than Long Range AWD—significant premium
⚠ Winter Range Loss: 25-30% reduction in cold weather
⚠ Touchscreen Dependency: All controls via central display
Who Should Buy the Model Y Performance?
The Model Y Performance is ideal for:
Performance Enthusiasts seeking thrilling acceleration with family practicality
Weekend Track Day Enthusiasts wanting a capable circuit-driving tool
Status-Conscious Buyers wanting a distinctive high-performance family vehicle
Acceleration Junkies prioritizing straight-line performance over maximum range
Technology-Forward Buyers seeking cutting-edge autonomous features with performance
Families Wanting Excitement combining daily driving with performance capability
The 2025 Tesla Model Y Performance is the best-value high-performance family SUV in the market. At approximately $69,000, it delivers 3.3-second 0-60 acceleration matching vehicles costing $30,000-$40,000 more while providing practical family accommodations, seven-seat capacity, and a 300+ mile range.
The Track Mode capability differentiates it from competitors, providing genuine closed-circuit performance for enthusiasts. The dual-motor AWD system provides all-weather confidence, and Tesla’s charging network ensures practical long-distance capability.
The primary drawbacks—reduced range vs. Long Range AWD and premium pricing—are acceptable trade-offs for buyers prioritizing thrilling performance and weekend track capability over maximum range and cost minimization.
For performance-enthusiast families wanting supercar acceleration, practical five-to-seven-seat accommodation, and weekend track capability, the Model Y Performance is an exceptional choice that delivers genuine driving excitement without compromising family practicality.