Tesla has officially launched the Model Y Juniper Performance for the U.S. market as of September 30, 2025. This marks the return of the high-performance edition in the refreshed Juniper “2026” Model Y lineup, now loaded with upgrades inside and out. Here’s what we know so far, starting with the most urgent: Tesla released this Performance option on the day the $7,500 tax credit ends – Sept. 30, 2025. If you’re reading this today, nows your chance to claim it before it’s gone.
What’s New: Highlights & Spec Snapshot
Below is a summary of the key features and performance claims surrounding the Juniper Performance:
| Feature | Model Y Juniper Performance | Model Y Juniper AWD | Model Y Juniper RWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | dual motor awd | dual motor awd | single motor rwd |
| 0–60 mph | 3.3 s | 4.6 s | 5.4 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph | 135 mph | tba |
| EPA range | 306 mi (includes 21’’ Arachnid 2.0 Wheels) | 327 mi (includes 19’’ Crossflow Wheels) | 357 mi ((includes 19’’ Crossflow Wheels) |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 125 mph | 125 mph |
| Center touchscreen display | 16 in | 15.4 in | 15.4 in |
| Rear touchscreen display | 8 in – second-row screen | 8 in – second-row screen | 8 in – second-row screen |
| Seats front | sport seats with extra bolstering + heated and ventilated | heated and ventilated | heated and ventilated |
| Suspension | adaptive dampers, unique drive modes | standard | standard |
| Wheels and Tires | new staggered performance setup | 19 or 20 in | 19 or 20 in |
| Aero changes | new front and rear fascias carbon spoiler | refreshed juniper fascias | refreshed juniper fascias |
| Cameras | 8 exterior cameras including new front camera | 8 exterior cameras including front camera | 8 exterior cameras including front camera |
| Starting price US | $57,490 | $48,990 |
$44,990 |
While Tesla has not yet published detailed battery/motor specs (e.g. exact pack size, cell chemistry, peak output) for the Performance variant, most leaks suggest it uses higher-energy-density cells to narrow the performance vs efficiency tradeoff.
Strengths & Competitive Edge
Here’s what stands out — why this Performance variant matters:
- Performance without punishing range tradeoffs
One of the biggest knocks on performance versions of EVs is that pushing power often means chopping range. The Juniper Performance’s claim of staying in the 300+ mile range class is ambitious and a major win. - Tech trickle-down becomes faster
Innovations like adaptive suspension, new battery cells, and improved UI features introduced here are likely to “cascade down” to lower trims over time, enhancing the entire Model Y lineup. - Sharper differentiation
By giving the Performance variant unique interior and exterior elements (like the 16″ screen, sport seats, aero bits), Tesla ensures it’s not just a “performance option” but a distinct offering.
Where It Fits in the EV Landscape
Compared to rivals — and compared to Tesla’s own prior offerings — the Model Y Juniper Performance (2026) slots as a top-tier performance SUV with more usable range and elevated features. It competes with performance versions of EV SUVs from the incumbents (think BMW, Mercedes-AMG, etc.), but Tesla’s edge is its integrated software, charging network, and brand strength.