This week was full of pleasant surprises, as Tesla fans finally got to see the most-awaited vehicle with no covers to hide it amid the scenic backdrop of the Alps. The next version of the all-electric crossover SUV boasts several sporty changes, which may reflect in Tesla giving its most popular model an even sharper aesthetic and, perhaps, its performance.
What is New?
The images show a more decisive and sportive pose, and several visual adjustments give this version its edge over the earlier one. If you want to read more, you can check out the recent Model Y, which was spotted at Nürburgring.
Sporty Rear Bumper
About one of the clearest changes is the renewed back bumper. It is more sculpted and aerodynamic than its previous model making Model Y look wider and lower.
🔥🔥 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
Rear Carbon Fiber Spoiler
Borrowing directly from the inspiration of Model 3 Performance, the updated Model Y comes with a carbon fiber low-profile rear spoiler. It is not merely ornamental; it is meant to make the car more stable at the back and generate additional downforce when one is on a spirited drive.
The New 21” Wheels
The Model Y Performance still uses 21-inch wheels, but they have been changed in the design. Those wheels have just slightly modified multi-spoke design in comparison to current Uberturbines, having a cleaner but more sporty appearance. They look similar to the ones found on the Plaid S/X, but they are exclusive and could enhance cooling properties and performance.
P-zero Tires of Pirelli
Protecting the new hoops are Pirelli P-Zero tires, which should make it perfectly clear that Tesla is serious about its desire to achieve maximum traction and cornering grip to help it make the road disappear before its eyes.
Red Brakes Calipers
As well as to hold true to the Performance branding, the vehicle has red painted brake calipers, which have long been used in the superior performance models of Tesla. They should contain improved brake components and thus be able to stop more powerfully when loaded.
Performance Badge
The most minor yet significant detail is that the refreshed Model Y features a Performance badge on the rear liftgate. This is notable because Tesla has been phasing out exterior trim identifiers in recent years. While it reinforces the model’s identity, it still maintains the brand’s minimalist design language.
What Has Not Changed
In the case of the updated Model Y, both the front and rear fascia—aside from the lower bumper—remain unchanged. There are no new headlights, grille openings, or tail light redesigns. This suggests that Tesla is staying true to its core design language and focusing instead on meaningful performance improvements where they matter most.
What is Under the Hood: Anything Powertrainwise?
Tesla has not published any official specs on this refreshed variant, and the prototype spotted does not tell much about what is hidden beneath the hood. Current Model Y Performance already provides:
- 3.5 seconds to 0-60 mph
- Maximum speed 155 mph
- Dual-motor all-wheel-drive
- More than 450 horsepower
It remains unknown whether Tesla will invest in these figures in the refresh, or if the latter is mainly cosmetic and aerodynamic. Nevertheless, P-Zeros and aerodynamic refinements point at the possibility of more competent handling, economy, or thermal conditions, perhaps due to software or suspension tuning.
When Will It Be Launched?
Although Tesla has not yet officially reacted to the spotting, the fact that this model was spotted in the wild is an indication that there could be an official announcement soon. As they are certainly busy because of the big launch of Robotaxi, they sent out Robotaxi invites with a Launch Set for this Sunday in Austin. Tesla is notorious for unexpectedly making changes to its cars, traditionally either pushed out over the air or introduced unannounced in its online configurator.
Depending on how Tesla has done in the past as regards the timing in selling vehicles that have been refreshed, this could be in the market as late as 2025 or sooner, in 2026. This would be in line with the production cycle in Tesla and their product evolution tactic.
