2026 Tesla Model Y Performance Revealed: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N's Biggest Threat Is Here

3 months ago - 2 September 2025, carbuzz

The moment Tesla fans have been waiting for ever since January’s reveal of the updated Model Y “Juniper” is finally here. The Texas-based electric vehicle company this week revealed the flagship Model Y Performance, which adds power and speed to the already potent outgoing model and delivers the most credible threat to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N in the performance electric SUV space.

The version shown is for the European market, where the Model Y Performance delivers a total of 460 horsepower from its dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, which uses the new 4DU drive unit. That figure is only up slightly from the 456 hp of the outgoing model, but US-delivered Model Y Performance SUVs will likely match the 510 hp of the Model 3 Performance, or so we hope.

Even with the lower figure, Tesla quotes a 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. The top speed is unchanged from the outgoing model, but the acceleration is 0.2 seconds quicker. Compared to its closest competitor, the Ioniq 5 N, which delivers a temporary peak output of 641 hp, the Model Y Performance needs 0.2 seconds longer to hit 60 mph and tops out about 7 mph earlier.

Tesla Picks Efficiency Over Outright Speed
While the numbers on paper aren’t a huge leap over what the outgoing model delivers, Tesla has made a number of key improvements in efficiency. For example, the 4DU drive unit, which also features on the Model 3 Performance, combines the electric motor, inverter, and gearbox into a single assembly and, according to Tesla, delivers roughly a 2% reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous design.

There’s also a more efficient battery with higher-density cells. Tesla doesn’t disclose the exact size of its battery packs, but the company says the pack in the Model Y Performance delivers around 3.8 miles per kilowatt-hour. On the WLTP test cycle used overseas, Tesla promises a total range of 360 miles. The range estimate should be lower under the stricter EPA test cycle, but will likely still exceed the current 277-mile estimate for the outgoing Model Y Performance.

Many More Changes Under The Skin
Beyond the powertrain, Tesla engineers also added the Model 3 Performance's electronically controlled continuously variable dampers but tweaked them to suit the bigger size of the Model Y. Further changes made to the chassis include new springs, roll bars, bushings, and staggered wheels, plus some enhancements to the rear body structure aimed at increasing torsional stiffness.

The Model Y Performance gets subtle but meaningful exterior upgrades, too. New front and rear fascias reduce drag and lift, while a carbon-fiber rear spoiler, red brake calipers, and 21-inch Arachnid-style forged wheels highlight its performance focus. Inside, Tesla has upgraded the central touchscreen to a 16-inch display (up from 15.4 inches) with nearly 80% more pixels than other Model Y SUVs. Body-hugging heated and ventilated seats, along with carbon-fiber trim on the dash and doors, further enhance the cabin, while staples like the panoramic roof, 8-inch rear screen, and Autopilot remain.

Deliveries of the Model Y Performance in Europe start in late September. A US launch should also start around that time, suggesting it will arrive as a 2026 model. Expect specifications for this market, including pricing, to be revealed shortly. The outgoing model was priced from $51,490 for the 2025 model year.