Model Y Performance pops up in California with Tesla's new forged wheels

Tesla is readying to release a new and more powerful Model Y Performance trim with what might be a simultaneous launch in the US, Europe, and China.

After being spotted testing on the storied Nürburgring racetrack, an increasingly frequent sightings of the new Model Y Performance have been coming from California in these past few weeks.

The latest leak has the Model Y Performance filmed somewhere near a field in Palo Alto, covered with test mule wrapping and camo. For the first time, there is an up close and clear view of the side, though, putting the alleged new 21" forged wheels that Tesla has developed for the Performance trim on full display.

These, frankly, look like regular cast wheels, but all will be revealed when Tesla announced the Model Y Performance and its pricing. The previous Performance edition commanded about $10,000 premium over the price of the regular AWD model, and the difference is likely to remain the same.

Tesla will probably try to release the Model Y Performance before the federal tax credit expires at the end of September, though, so its alleged price tag of $59,990 could be reduced with the current $7,500 subsidy for new EV purchases.

The 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance is likely to borrow the 510 HP drivetrain of the Model 3 Performance. That will be a jump from the 456 HP of its predecessor, and should accelerate it from 0-60 mph in a bit over three seconds.

Moreover, the 2026 Model Y refresh is lighter and more aerodynamic now, so even if Tesla uses the same battery, the Performance trim should cover more miles on a charge than before.

Tesla will probably set the Performance trim apart with dedicated badging, big spoiler, and a different bumper with extra diffusers. The rumored forged 21" wheels are expected to be exclusive, too, adding to the sporty, more aggressive looks of Tesla's most powerful Model Y.

Get the 21" Tesla Model Y Performance Überturbine wheels rim protector on Amazon