I recently had the opportunity to spend seven days with the Tesla Model Y Performance, thanks to the company providing me with a brand new unit. As a proud owner of the Premium All-Wheel-Drive model, I was eager to see if the Performance trim, with its $11,000 price difference, was truly worth it. What I discovered during my time with the vehicle may surprise you.
Having previously experienced the exhilarating speed of the Cybertruck, I was excited to test out the Model Y Performance. My initial impressions of the car were positive, with its striking Ultra Red paint and White interior making for a sleek and stylish combination. However, I couldn’t help but notice some discrepancies in the shades of red between the paint, brake calipers, and rear light bar, which detracted from the overall aesthetic.
One of the standout features of the Model Y Performance is its Performance seats, which are designed to provide additional support and comfort during spirited driving. I found these seats to be more comfortable than those in my Premium AWD model, despite some Performance owners expressing the opposite opinion. The larger center screen and subtle interior accents, such as Performance pedals and Carbon Fiber elements, add a touch of luxury to the cabin.
On the exterior, Tesla has incorporated various enhancements to improve performance and aerodynamics, including a carbon fiber spoiler and rear diffuser. These additions not only contribute to the car’s sporty look but also help enhance handling, range, and overall performance. While the brake calipers and other exterior elements add to the car’s appeal, I hope that Tesla addresses the color discrepancies in future versions.
When it comes to ride quality and performance, the Model Y Performance delivers a slightly faster acceleration compared to the AWD model, thanks to its 3.3-second 0-60 MPH time. While the acceleration was impressive, I found it to be less exhilarating than expected, especially coming from the Cybertruck. The handling, with its adaptive suspension and stiffer springs, was on par with the AWD model, providing a stable and enjoyable driving experience.
Overall, the Model Y Performance offers a sportier look and improved performance over the AWD model, but the differences may not be significant enough to justify the higher price tag for some buyers. While the acceleration and handling are commendable, I didn’t feel a substantial difference compared to my AWD model. That being said, the Model Y, in any trim, remains a top-notch vehicle with exceptional ride quality, build quality, and a host of features that make it a standout in the electric vehicle market.