2026 Model Y Performance released outside US at higher price with longer range and carbon fiber interior

Tesla sales are down 40% in Europe, thanks to Elon Musk's political activism and the onslaught of Chinese electric cars from BYD and other brands. Tesla's market share in new vehicle sales across the EU and UK has nearly halved from 1.4% to 0.8% now, and even the launch of the Model Y facelift couldn't save it.

Model Y Performance price and specs

This might be why Tesla is releasing the fastest Model Y, a 2026 Performance version, in the EMEA region first. The Model Y Performance will be released in September at a €62,990 price that is higher than the tag of its predecessor.

The 2026 Performance does offer longer range on a charge thanks to new LG battery cells with higher energy density that fit in the same weight and dimensions footprint as the battery pack in the Long Range AWD version that is about ten grand cheaper.

Thanks to the better cells, the 2026 Model Y Performance offers nearly the same range on a charge as the less powerful AWD version  - 580 vs 586 kilometers - on the local WLTP test cycle. WLTP is up to 15% more generous than the rigorous EPA testing routine, though, so if and when the Model Y Performance is released in the US, it is likely to arrive with a range estimate of about 323 miles on a charge, only a tad below the 327 miles of the AWD Model Y here.

The 2026 Model Y Performance 0-60 mph acceleration is 3.3 or 3.5 seconds, depending on the mode, aided by the two Performance 4DU motors with combined output of 460 horsepower. A controlled top speed of 155 mph rounds up the Model Y Performance offering that is rather jaw-dropping for a 2-ton family SUV at this price level.

To match the aggressive acceleration, Tesla has outfitted the new Model Y Performance with plenty of visual cues such as a new carbon fiber spoiler and exterior or interior elements, as well as the exclusive 21-inch Arachnid 2.0 forged wheels.

Besides the carbon fiber interior finish, Tesla has kitted the 2026 Performance Y with a brand new 16-inch touchscreen that comes with Ultra HD resolution. The sports handling and ride comfort are ensured by an electronically controlled continuously variable damping suspension with several modes that is adapted from the racy Model 3 Performance trim, as well as new bucket seats.

Or, as Tesla puts it, "heated and ventilated sport seats in first row with added bolstering and side cushions that hold you in your seat when cornering plus powered thigh cushion extenders for extra comfort."

Model Y Performance release date in the US

• Mid-October (est.)

The 2026 Model Y Performance release date in North America will probably have to wait for October. That is when the federal tax credit of $7,500 that can be applied towards a new electric vehicle purchase expires.

Since Model Y sales are going very strong at the moment as people rush to buy before the tax credit expiration date, Tesla would like to have some aces left up its sleeve for the last quarter of the year, and the Model Y Performance launch in the US could serve as just such a sales catalyst.

The September 30 deadline can still be extended slightly as the IRS tweaked its rules to allow any down payment or trade initiation to count as a sale, so even if one takes delivery after September 30, they will be able to get the tax credit. This can drag on until mid-October, so a Model Y Performance release in the US after than seems like a good bet.

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