The Tesla Model Y Family Is Growing Fast
Earlier this month, we learned that the Tesla Model Y would soon be available with a seven-seat layout, and not long after, reports emerged that a longer-wheelbase six-seater with captain’s chairs may be in the works too, aligning with comments made by Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, who said in February that more Model Y variants would debut this year. One of those upcoming variants is the Model Y Performance, which has now appeared in a post on X, revealing much of its styling thanks to no camouflage being applied to the prototype.
Several Subtle Styling Differences
Tesla
The fuzzy footage makes it tricky to determine any changes (if any) at the front of the prototype, but the view of the rear is clear enough to see a redesigned lower bumper panel with slightly more sharply defined recesses at the bottom, mimicking mini air diffusers. It also appears that the black lower valance panel has a slightly more slanted outer border, which increases the impression of width. On the far right of the tailgate, atop which a carbon fiber spoiler sits, a new Performance badge appears, and the prototype also appears to be wearing the trim-specific 21-inch wheels that help this EV stand out from others in the Tesla range. These may be staggered, though it’s tough to tell. Finally, we need to address the color. As noted by CarScoops, it appears that these images were captured using another Tesla’s built-in cameras, so don’t get excited by the burnt orange hue – it’s likely a coloring issue with the Tesla camera as it tries to render red in bright sunlight.
🔥🔥 New Tesla Model Y Performance spotted uncovered in the Alps!
✅ Sporty rear bumper
✅ New 21” wheels
✅ Carbon fiber rear spoiler
✅ Performance badgeH/t @stenboo pic.twitter.com/Wo7kUm9ZXu
— Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) June 20, 2025
Still Lots To Learn About The Model Y Performance
The presence of an undisguised Model Y on these German Alpine roads indicates that there isn’t much left to hide, suggesting that a launch can’t be far away. Since European markets got access to the new Model Y when it launched before us, it’s likely that the same will be true for the Performance model. Tesla doesn’t typically make major changes to the fundamental bones of updated vehicles, so we expect a dual-motor setup once more. The current Model Y Performance produces 510 horsepower and 554 lb-ft of torque, but there’s no guarantee that Tesla will add more – previous model updates have often been able to deliver better handling and quicker 0-60 times from the same output thanks to updated software, revised suspension, and improved traction. We’ll report back once we have more information, but it’s safe to assume that the hotter Model Y will be revealed before the year is out.