In a move that can only be described as quintessentially Tesla, the highly anticipated new Model Y Performance has launched in the United States on the evening of September 30th. The launch itself was major news, as it finally brought the updated Performance variant, which had been available in Europe, to American customers.
But the real story was the timing: Tesla launched the Model Y Performance with an X post just hours before the US Federal EV tax rebate was set to expire at midnight.
A Fleeting Opportunity
For a few frantic hours on launch night, the new Model Y Performance, with a starting price of $57,490, qualified for the $7,500 US EV tax credit. This presented a massive, albeit brief, opportunity for buyers who were ready to act immediately. The offer was not without its conditions, as Tesla made the vehicle available only for cash purchases* on its website, with financing not being an option. Additionally, as the tax credit requires lease deliveries to be completed by the 30th, leasing was also unavailable.
That fleeting window has now closed. Still, the last-minute launch created a dramatic scenario—and likely had many buyers rush to place their last-minute orders for the Model Y Performance. As an added incentive for this high-stakes purchase, Tesla also included every paint and interior color option at no additional cost for all US orders.
Customers placing an order now will be given an option to finance when it’s closer for delivery.
— Raj Jegannathan (@r_jegaa) October 1, 2025
A Tesla executive, Raj Jegannathan, later confirmed that customers placing an order tonight will be given the option to finance once closer to delivery.
What’s New for the US Market
For those who secured an order in the rush, and for everyone else going forward, the new Model Y Performance is a major upgrade over its predecessor.
There’s a notable boost in performance, with the 0-60mph time dropping to just 3.3 seconds. With a 155mph top speed and a 306-mile range, the new specs are nothing to sneeze at. That increased range over the last performance variant is thanks to the new high-density batteries with an increased charge capacity. The variant also features an adaptive suspension paired with high-performance brakes for improved handling and comfort, both on the track and on the road.
The exterior is defined by new, more aggressive front and rear fascias, a carbon fiber spoiler, and a staggered wheel setup for better grip. Of course, just as with all other refreshed Model Ys, it also includes the new front bumper camera.
Epic fun + adrenaline on tap
— Tesla Europe & Middle East (@teslaeurope) August 29, 2025
New Model Y Performance now available pic.twitter.com/1g3LPB1VNw
Inside, there are also significant changes. The cabin is built around a larger 16-inch, higher resolution (QHD) touchscreen and features new Performance-specific carbon-fiber decor. The most welcome upgrade for many will be the all-new sport seats, which offer improved bolstering for high-speed driving, along with the usual heating and ventilation. Take a look at all the changes in the new Model Y Performance over the Long Range version..
What’s Next
This was obviously a last-minute rush for Tesla to get the Model Y Performance in before the tax credit expired in the U.S. If you’re in the market for this model, we recommend buying it soon, as the free paint and interior options are still available, but they may disappear at any point.
The Model Y Performance is priced $8,500 more than the Long Range AWD variant, but if you were looking at getting the white interior (normally $1,000) and one of the more expensive paint options like Ultra Red (normally $2,000), that could make the Model Y Performance just $5,500 more than its AWD counterpart, making it a fantastic deal.
While the tax credit rush may be over, the launch of the new Model Y Performance in the US sets a new benchmark for the rest of Tesla’s lineup. Tesla expects to begin deliveries of the Model Y Performance in December of this year.
