A camouflaged Tesla Model Y Performance was spotted testing in Northern California, giving enthusiasts and industry observers a rare glimpse at what could be the next iteration of Tesla’s most popular SUV. Although Tesla is known for its minimalist approach to design changes, the prototype suggests that the company is planning to launch an updated version of the Performance Model Y, accompanied by certain changes worth noting.
The vehicle was spotted with a black and white camouflage all over its body, hiding specifics of the design, but also indicating that Tesla was set out to prepare an update to be production-ready silently. Tesla tends to keep future projects a closely guarded secret, but such field sightings can usually be announced several months in advance.
Exterior Enhancements: Carbon Fiber and Classic Touches
The carbon fiber rear spoiler is one of the most noticeable upgrades made to the test vehicle, underscoring the car’s performance credentials. Carbon fiber is, as well, a lightweight material, but also a subtle nod to Tesla to make performance improvements without affecting efficiency. The spoiler on the prototype appears smoother than the one on the current prototype, and this may enhance aerodynamics and handling at high speed.
Black mirror caps are another minor-but-important detail on the car, which fits into Tesla’s recent design language, evident all around the updated Model 3 (“Highland”) and even on some trim levels of the Model S and Model X, and is popular in performance-oriented markets.
Perhaps the most intriguing is the fact that 20-inch Induction wheels are included, a design of the previous, more ancient versions of the Model Y. Whereas more recent Model Y Performance models typically come with 21-inch Überturbine wheels, the choice by Tesla to use the slightly smaller set begs questions. This may also be a portent of a plan to strike a balance between aesthetics, comfort in ride, and efficiency, which is particularly critical in the case of daily drivers who also desire to be able to perform.
🔥 Camouflaged Tesla Model Y Performance spotted in Northern California
✅ Carbon fiber rear spoiler
✅ Black mirror caps
✅ Gray headliner
✅ 20” Induction wheels (from the legacy Model Y) pic.twitter.com/KIkCSgSoyO— The Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) September 8, 2025
Interior Tweaks: Gray Headliner for a Premium Feel
The prototype has been caught with an interior grey headliner that is not characteristic of all-black interiors that are typical in the Tesla Performance models. The lighter headliner will help the cabin look larger and more high-end, as some of the owners complain that the all-black interior feels somewhat claustrophobic.
This small detail can be viewed as insignificant, yet it signifies Tesla’s ongoing attempt to polish the user experience, particularly since the competition in the electric SUV sector is increasing. Rivian, BMW, and Hyundai brands are pushing the limits in terms of comfort in the interior, and Tesla might have to make minor updates to remain ahead.
When Will It Arrive?
Tesla has not officially announced any updates to Model Y Performance, but the history of the company shows that prototypes such as the one observed in Northern California tend to be released within six to 12 months. As the company already has the humming production in Fremont, Giga Texas, and plants in Berlin and Shanghai, Tesla might be preparing a coordinated worldwide update.
