A SUBTLE PERFORMANCE (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 62

With the launch of Tesla's Model Y mid-sized EV crossover in 2021 came also a top 'Performance'-spec version marked out by some very subtle styling cues to designate it as the ultimate small Tesla hatch. Power was up to 483bhp and the 62mph sprint took just 3.5s. This was an EV on a mission. Let's check it out as a used buy.

Modelsword count: 4

5dr Hatch (EV) [Performance]

Historyword count: 155

You'll have seen many Tesla Model Ys on the roads; it's the brand's best seller. But very few of them will have been the top flagship 'Performance' version, launched with the mainstream line-up in 2021, which has only a few exterior detail changes to mark it out from any normal Dual Motor 'Long Range' Model Y. It goes a fair bit faster though, so it'll be the variant of choice for anyone seeking Model Y motoring to the max. By 2021, Tesla had gradually been improving its prowess when it comes to R&D development and the result was that cars from the brand from this era were able to ride and handle to a significantly higher standard - something this top Model Y aimed to showcase. Here, we look at the earlier 2021-2024 versions of this Performance variant, which sold until a far-reaching 'Project Juniper' update brought a revitalised Model Y Performance variant in min-2025.

What You Getword count: 375

A 'Performance'-spec Model 3 is perhaps primarily recognisable by its lowered suspension and larger 21-inch 'Uberturbine' wheels, through the spokes of which you glimpse the red calipers of the uprated 'Performance' braking system. At the back, a neat carbonfibre rear spoiler has been added. Otherwise, there are no visual differences between this variant and an ordinary Model Y. Inside, the 'Performance'-spec upgrade is equally subtle, limited to a set of aluminium alloy pedals; otherwise, it's just as in an ordinary Model Y. Which means it's more minimalist than a Scandinavian loft. Well, in terms of button clutter anyway. There's nothing minimalist about this enormous 15-inch central touchscreen, on to which virtually all the comfort, infotainment and driving features you'll need have been located, including those you'd normally find in a conventional instrument cluster - here missing too. Beyond this, operating control provision has been kept to the absolute minimum. Don't bother looking for a gearstick, a starter button, a handbrake switch or physical ventilation controls; even the vents themselves are pretty hidden. Tesla also thought about getting rid of steering wheel stalks (as it subsequently did on the updated Model 3 and its larger cars), but they were reluctantly retained here, the left one for indicators and the right for gear selection. Otherwise, you're limited to a couple of unmarked scroll wheels on the steering wheel spokes. Getting in and out of the rear via the pillarless doors is easier than in a comparable Model 3 because of the taller body. Get inside at the back and the first thing you might notice is the completely flat floor - the usual transmission tunnel's not needed of course because there's no mechanical transmission. Even better, there's much more room than is usually provided for a centre-seated passenger to slide his or her shoes forward, beneath the jutting console with its twin vents. True, you'll rarely need the central pew to be occupied, but the space provided for it adds to the airy feel already created by the rear quarterlights and, primarily, by the huge standard panoramic glass roof. Out back, there's a decently-sized 854-litre boot, extendable to 2,100-litres in size if you fold the rear seats. You also get 117-litres of extra space under the bonnet.

To see the full road test text contact us on 0330 0020 227