2026 Tesla Model Y Performance breaks cover
Tesla's overhauled performance SUV has been spied testing, completely undisguised, in the Swiss Alps.
The 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance has been revealed in a pair of short clips – captured with another Tesla – that were submitted to German-language YouTube channel Nextmove.
The updated flagship mid-size electric SUV is expected to be revealed later this year.
Given the lack of camouflage and the bold colour – which appears orange in the footage but could be Ultra Red – this particular example could be being filmed or photographed for promotional material.
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The footage of the front-end is too grainy to make much out, apart from what appears to be a more aggressive bumper, but the clearer view of the rear-end shows what appears to be a sportier bumper treatment and a black lip spoiler.
The Model Y Performance also appears to be riding on new wheels, which may measure 21 inches.
Other changes could mirror those made to the Model 3 Performance sedan with its substantial 2024 update, including upgraded brakes and the addition of adaptive suspension.
The Model 3 Performance also gained ventilated front sports seats, metal pedals, and carbon-fibre trim. Supplied Credit: CarExpert
However, Chinese-built examples like those sold here received a 15kW cut in power – to 343kW – and a reduction in electric driving range on the WLTP cycle from 547km to 528km. Nevertheless, the Model 3 Performance's claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time was reduced by 0.2 seconds to just 3.1 seconds.
The updated Model Y currently uses a 79kWh battery in Long Range guise, making it good for 551km of WLTP range – an improvement of 18km on the pre-update model, which offered 533km of range.
The updated Model Y range featured a substantial visual update externally with new front- and rear-end styling, plus a refreshed interior featuring an 8.0-inch rear passenger screen, ambient lighting, and screen-based gear selection.
More changes were made under the skin, too. Supplied Credit: CarExpert
The suspension was retuned for greater comfort, the steering was retuned for greater responsiveness, and redesigned body castings are claimed to reduce the number of parts and the amount of road noise.
The updated Performance isn't the only fresh Model Y variant on the radar.
Also expected to join the existing Model Y lineup is a new seven-seat variant. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert
Above: Model Y, Model 3 Performance
MORE: Explore the Tesla Model Y showroom
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