Tesla Model Y Performance (2022-2026)

Unless you spend your life at the drag strip you probably won't need this much power – I'm already a huge fan of the Tesla Model Y. I recommend it as my electric SUV of choice to almost anyone who's looking for a practical, easy-to-live with electric SUV. I got back from an overseas trip and was greeted with the Model Y Performance. I was excited to get behind the wheel of my first 'Performance' Tesla product as it's packed with… Read more

power and performance upgrades.

However, I can't help but feel driving the 'slowest' Tesla Performance car made me wonder if you really need all this power.

Sure, it's fun to blast around town and have a ridiculous amount of acceleration under your right foot. But you get most of this experience with the Model Y Long Range (for less money and more range too).

It's clear the Model Y Performance suits markets with higher speed limits than ours, and more generous tolerances for speeding too.

If you're used to Porsche Macan Turbo power, but want to go electric, it's an ideal car for those with a need for speed.

I didn't find the upgraded suspension to make enough of a difference on back road driving through Bathurst to warrant me spending more money than a standard Model Y Long Range either.

It sure looks cooler, but it has the same interior as a Model Y Long Range too. You don't get any seat upgrades, you get the same instant EV acceleration feeling and low-centre of gravity handling as other Teslas.

Unless you're riding back to back in both, I don't think you HAVE to have the Model Y Performance.

Personally, I'd rather a Model Y Long Range. Although it lacks the Supercharger access and superior infotainment of the Tesla - the Kia EV6 GT and incoming Hyundai IONIQ 5 N are excellent alternatives which offer superior handling and similar performance too.

If you can't see yourself in a Tesla alternative, then the Model Y Performance is the electric SUV for those who crave the best Tesla has to offer when it comes to power and handling.

*Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.