The 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance First Drive: Sharpens Its Edge

When a colleague asks Lars Moravy—Tesla’s vice president of vehicle engineering—about the new 81-kWh battery powering the 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance, the lights seem to flicker as he launches into a rapid-fire explanation. “The updated cell features redesigned tabs and cathodes, and its jelly roll is made from a lithium-uranium paste that sits in Mercon V and is cooled by Dex-Cool—orange, not yellow. Overall, it maintains the same size and mass while delivering more energy.” Moravy processes technical data like a supercomputer; it’s as if he needs 1.4 gigawatt-hours of mental bandwidth just to store it all.

But one comment he makes gets straight to the point: “Who the [expletive] takes a Model Y to a racetrack?” Tesla is bringing back the Model Y Performance for 2026, and rather than following the track-focused formula of the previous generation, this new version charts its own course by prioritizing everyday driving fun.

These updates are noticeable immediately. Track Mode has been removed, and with it several entertaining tools. Gone are the adjustable stability control levels, battery conditioning features, regeneration settings, and the ability to fine-tune front-to-rear torque distribution.

With the reduced focus on track capability, Moravy views the new 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance as a more balanced and capable corner-carver. Inside, the upgraded 16.0-inch central touchscreen—now sharper and more colorful—reveals simplified drive modes: Chill, Standard, and Insane. The adaptive dampers offer just two settings, Standard and Sport, and yaw-control customization is pared down to a single Reduced mode. Prioritizing everyday usability, Tesla now includes a trailer hitch and a 3500-pound tow rating as standard equipment.

The new Model Y may have stepped back from track-focused theatrics, but straight-line performance is still very much its calling card. It uses the same front and rear motors found in the updated Model 3 Performance, with the rear unit employing Tesla’s latest fourth-generation design. Together, they produce 510 horsepower—enough for Tesla to claim a 0–60-mph time of 3.3 seconds. We suspect it may be even quicker when we test it ourselves.

With Insane mode engaged, power comes on quickly. It’s not the kind of force that snaps your neck back, but it’s plenty to trigger a few laughs. Forward visibility is superb, giving us a clear view of the charred redwoods whipping past as we wind through the Santa Cruz Mountains south of San Francisco. The brakes, similar to those on the Model Y Premium but upgraded with a larger rear rotor and more aggressive pads, offer reassuring pedal feel from the first press. Throughout a day that seems to include 7000 corners of every possible radius, camber, and speed, the Model Y Performance remains composed and confident.

Inside, the Performance model’s front seats add larger side bolsters to keep you securely planted, along with extended thigh support for taller drivers. We’d prefer a bit more buildup in steering effort as the wheel is turned, but its precision is spot-on. Stability control’s Reduced setting delivers just the right amount of controlled tail-out slip before stepping in—exactly as Tesla intends, since not every driver has thousands of hours behind the wheel. All-season Hankooks come standard, but those wanting more lateral grip can opt for dealer-installed Pirelli summer tires.

Tesla openly acknowledges that the previous Model Y Performance didn’t ride particularly well. Improving comfort—while keeping the car engaging—was a top priority for the new version, and the company has delivered. The latest adaptive-damping algorithm is now in place, complemented by stiffer springs and anti-roll bars to maintain the Performance model’s character. Tesla also introduced new steering knuckles equipped with accelerometers alongside the wheel-speed sensors, supplying the system with even more data to refine the ride.

The setup works impressively well. Body roll is kept in check, and vertical wheel motions are well controlled. The ride is still on the firmer side—21-inch wheels don’t do it any favors—but overall, the 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance is significantly more comfortable than before. Cabin noise is also surprisingly minimal.

Externally, distinguishing the Performance model from the rest of the lineup is easy. It receives its own front fascia with air-cushion vents designed to reduce turbulence around the front wheels, a liftgate-mounted spoiler, and a more aggressive rear diffuser. Tesla says these changes drop the drag coefficient to a slick 0.235—better than the Premium models—which helps efficiency. Even so, the EPA estimates range at 306 miles, about 21 miles less than a base Model Y Premium AWD.

Moravy adds that the new Performance model is 16 pounds lighter than its predecessor. It’s not the dramatic 400-pound weight loss seen on the Model X, but in an era of ever-growing curb weights, any reduction is welcome.

We’re firm believers in driving for yourself, but it’s worth mentioning the Performance model’s $8000 “Full Self-Driving (Supervised)” option. There’s a certain charm in letting the car take over during our coastal highway cruise, allowing us to enjoy the scenery without worrying about missed turns—FSD even handled one we surely would’ve blown past while daydreaming. But once the road leads back to the canyons, the computers can slide back into the passenger seat.

Overall, our early impressions suggest Tesla has largely succeeded in creating a more comfortable yet still engaging electric SUV. And at $59,130, the 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance undercuts much of the competition aiming for the same balance.

2026 Tesla Model Y Performance Specification