Tesla Model Y Performance

Overview

The 2025 Tesla Model Y Performance is the sharp end of the spear for America's favorite electric SUV, blending family-hauling practicality with supercar-scaring speed. As this particular generation wraps up production in 2025, it represents the most refined version of a proven, best-selling formula. It's the go-to choice for buyers who need space but refuse to compromise on driving thrills. With a new price tag around $54,490 and used examples of earlier years fetching about $18,999, it delivers a massive performance-per-dollar value in the EV crossover market.

What's New for 2025?

For the 2025 model year, the big industry buzz surrounds the anticipated "Project Juniper" refresh, which is expected to bring significant design and tech updates. However, for this final iteration of the original design, changes are more subtle. Expect the latest software refinements delivered via over-the-air updates, which continuously enhance the user interface and driving features. While major hardware changes aren't on the table for this outgoing variant, Tesla might introduce minor tweaks like new paint options or wheel designs to mark the end of its incredibly successful production run.

Design & Exterior

The Model Y Performance boasts a slick, minimalist design that's both aerodynamic and instantly recognizable. The Performance trim gets an exclusive dose of aggression with standard 21-inch Überturbine wheels, a sleek carbon fiber spoiler, performance brakes, and a lowered suspension for a meaner stance. It's a clean, button-free look that has defined the modern EV aesthetic. Dimensionally, it's a well-proportioned crossover, measuring 187 inches long, 75.6 inches wide, and 63.9 inches tall, making it a perfect fit for both city streets and suburban garages.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Model Y Performance features a spartan-chic cabin dominated by a massive 15-inch central touchscreen that controls nearly every vehicle function. The all-vegan interior feels modern and airy, with a full glass roof enhancing the sense of space for five passengers. It's a practicality king, offering a generous 30.2 cubic feet of trunk space, which expands to a cavernous 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Don't forget the handy 4.1 cubic foot frunk, perfect for stashing charging cables or a couple of grocery bags.

Performance & Driving Experience

This is where the Performance trim truly shines. It’ll rocket you from 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.5 seconds, pinning you to your seat with relentless, silent force. That punch comes from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system—an induction motor up front and a permanent magnet motor in the back—unleashing a combined 393 kW (around 527 hp) and 487 lb-ft of instant torque. The stiff, lowered suspension and sharp steering give it handling that defies its crossover shape, feeling more like a sports sedan, though the ride can be firm on rough pavement.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powered by a 75 kWh usable battery pack, Green Cars Compare's real-world testing estimates a practical range of about 280 miles on a full charge. The vehicle is highly efficient, achieving around 3.73 mi/kWh. At home, the standard 11.5 kW AC onboard charger can top up the battery overnight. On the road, its 400V architecture can take full advantage of Tesla's Supercharger network, pulling a maximum of 250 kW via its NACS port. This allows it to add over 160 miles of range in just 15 minutes under ideal conditions.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a cornerstone of the Model Y's design, earning it a top 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Every Performance model comes standard with Autopilot, an advanced driver-assistance suite that includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist for confident highway travel. For those seeking more, optional Enhanced Autopilot or the Full Self-Driving (Beta) package can be added, unlocking features like automatic lane changes, Autopark, and traffic light recognition. Standard active safety features include forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla provides solid peace of mind with its warranty coverage. The Model Y Performance is protected by a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty. More importantly, the heart of the car—the battery pack and drive unit—are covered for a lengthy 8 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first. This includes a guarantee of at least 70% battery retention over the warranty period. There's no complimentary scheduled maintenance, but the EV powertrain requires minimal servicing, keeping long-term ownership costs impressively low.