The latest iteration of Tesla's family SUV, the Model Y Performance, has made its debut, offering a potent blend of practicality and exhilarating speed. This high-performance variant inherits significant technological advancements from its sedan counterpart, the Model 3 Performance, while incorporating bespoke modifications to suit its larger stature. It aims to deliver a thrilling driving experience without compromising the versatility expected of a modern family vehicle, setting a new benchmark in its segment.
Equipped with a dual-motor 'Performance 4DU' powertrain, the Model Y Performance generates an impressive 460 horsepower. While slightly less powerful than the Model 3 Performance, this output still enables breathtaking acceleration, propelling the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, ensuring formidable performance on the road. The vehicle's dynamic capabilities are further enhanced by adaptive dampers, a technology borrowed from its sibling, specifically tuned to manage the Model Y's greater mass and dimensions. Additionally, engineers have implemented revisions to the springs, bushes, and roll bars, contributing to a firmer and more controlled ride.
Distinguishing the Model Y Performance from its standard counterparts are several exterior and interior enhancements. Visually, it features a subtle carbon fiber lip spoiler, striking red brake calipers, and newly designed 21-inch wheels. Performance badging is strategically placed to signify its elevated status. Inside the cabin, occupants will find specially designed Performance-specific seats, offering improved support during spirited driving. A notable upgrade is the larger, higher-resolution 16-inch touchscreen, which surpasses the 15.4-inch display found in other Model Y variants and is currently exclusive to this performance model. This larger interface provides a more immersive and user-friendly experience for controlling the vehicle's myriad functions.
Although Tesla has opted to no longer disclose precise battery capacities, the company states that the Model Y Performance achieves an estimated 360 miles of range under the WLTP cycle, with a peak efficiency of 3.8 miles per kilowatt-hour. This suggests the inclusion of a battery pack approximately rated at 95 kilowatt-hours. Now available for order in the United Kingdom, the Model Y Performance carries a starting price of £61,990. While this represents a premium over the dual-motor long-range Model Y, it remains a significantly more accessible option than other electric SUVs offering comparable performance, such as certain Porsche Macan Turbo variants.
This new offering from Tesla underscores the company's commitment to delivering high-performance electric vehicles that cater to a broader audience. By integrating advanced powertrain technology, refined chassis components, and distinctive design elements, the Model Y Performance stands as a compelling choice for consumers seeking the excitement of a sports car blended with the practicality of an SUV.
A remarkable automotive anomaly has emerged from Michigan: a 2018 Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo Evo 1, a vehicle meticulously engineered for the demanding circuits of motorsport, is astonishingly deemed street-legal within the state. This high-performance machine, originally crafted for Lamborghini's exclusive one-make race series, is currently available for auction, presenting a unique opportunity for discerning collectors and enthusiasts. While its documentation suggests it can traverse public thoroughfares, the inherent characteristics of a race car, from its specialized aerodynamics to its potent engine and robust braking system, suggest that its true calling remains the racetrack. The vehicle's history, including its mileage and recent maintenance, underscores its readiness for exhilarating track days, even if its daily commute capabilities are more theoretical than practical. This intriguing blend of raw racing power and unexpected road legality offers a fresh perspective on the boundaries of automotive engineering and regulation.
A Track-Ready Beast Finds an Unconventional Home in Michigan
On a crisp day in Michigan, an extraordinary vehicle has captured the attention of the automotive world: a 2018 Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo Evo 1, a purebred race car, has been surprisingly registered for street use. This magnificent machine, which premiered at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show as a precursor to the advanced Temerario, was specifically engineered for the high-octane Super Trofeo one-make racing series. Its Evo 1 specification, introduced in 2018, brought significant aerodynamic enhancements, including redesigned front air intakes, a more assertive front diffuser, a distinctive roof scoop, and a stabilizing rear fin. These modifications allowed the car to achieve lap times 1.5 seconds faster than its predecessor on Italy’s legendary Monza circuit. This exceptional vehicle, despite its racing lineage, is being auctioned by a Michigan dealer on Cars & Bids, boasting a rare Carfax report, an uncommon sight for a competition car. The selling dealer, however, thoughtfully cautions prospective buyers about potential challenges with emissions testing in certain states and the likelihood of attracting attention from local law enforcement due to its extreme racing modifications.
Underneath its striking carbon-fiber bodywork, which, as is typical for race cars, displays minor imperfections such as dings, chips, and scratches, lies the heart of a beast. The Huracán Super Trofeo Evo 1 retains the formidable naturally-aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine, delivering a breathtaking 620 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. This immense power is channeled to the rear wheels via a sophisticated six-speed sequential gearbox. The car is equipped with 18-inch center-locking wheels, complemented by race-ready Brembo brakes and Öhlins dampers, ensuring unparalleled stopping power and handling. Furthermore, it features an air jacking system and an integrated roll cage, hallmarks of a vehicle built for the rigorous demands of professional racing. With an estimated 23,000 miles on its odometer, approximately 800 of which were added by the current seller, the car received comprehensive servicing last summer. This included essential maintenance such as an engine oil and filter change, as well as the replacement of the transmission input shaft seal, flywheel, clutch, clutch actuator, and transmission mount, ensuring it remains in peak condition for its next owner.
While navigating this marvel on public roads might prove impractical, its true potential shines on the track. The Super Trofeo series was designed to accommodate less experienced drivers compared to the more intense Huracán GT3. This makes it an ideal option for enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating track-day experience. Moreover, its current bidding price of $60,000 presents a potentially more economical alternative to acquiring a used STO or Performante, and it circumvents the waiting period for a brand-new Temerario race car. Lamborghini's commitment to motorsport, once a secondary concern for founder Ferruccio Lamborghini, has flourished under Volkswagen Group ownership. The establishment of its Squadra Corse racing department has led to numerous class victories in prestigious events like the Rolex 24 at Daytona, solidifying its legacy in the competitive world of motorsports. Although their recent venture into prototype racing with the Lamborghini SC63 has yet to yield similar success, the brand's dedication to high-performance engineering remains unwavering.
The tale of this street-legal Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo Evo 1 profoundly inspires a reevaluation of our perceptions of automotive engineering and the boundaries of possibility. It challenges the conventional understanding of what constitutes a 'road car' versus a 'race car,' demonstrating that with sufficient ingenuity and adherence to specific regulations, even the most extreme machines can transcend their intended environments. As an enthusiast, this narrative underscores the incredible adaptability of technology and the persistent human desire to push limits. It also highlights the fascinating interplay between strict performance engineering and the often-complex labyrinth of legal frameworks, reminding us that innovation sometimes finds its most exciting expressions in the unexpected intersections of these worlds. Ultimately, it’s a vibrant testament to the enduring passion for high-octane performance, regardless of whether it's on a dedicated circuit or, remarkably, a public street.
Despite a challenging year marked by declining sales and profits, Tesla is poised to make a significant impact with the unveiling of its comprehensively updated Model Y Performance. This refresh, initially released for European and Middle Eastern markets, offers a glimpse into what consumers in the United States can expect. The upgrades span various critical areas, from exterior aesthetics and advanced powertrain capabilities to expanded range and luxurious interior refinements. These strategic enhancements aim to reinforce the Model Y's status as a formidable force in the electric vehicle landscape, offering a compelling blend of speed, efficiency, and comfort.
The Reimagined Tesla Model Y Performance: A Detailed Look
On a bright day in late August 2025, Tesla officially launched the highly anticipated Model Y Performance across Europe and the Middle East, with a strong indication of its upcoming debut in the North American market. This new model builds upon the foundation of the updated Model Y Juniper, integrating substantial improvements to set a new benchmark for electric crossovers.
From a design perspective, the Model Y Performance now showcases a more aggressive and futuristic aesthetic. It features newly sculpted front and rear fascias, complemented by striking full-width lighting elements that create a distinctive visual signature. A sleek carbon fiber spoiler has been added, not just for style, but to optimize the vehicle's aerodynamics. Enhancing its sporty stance are the new 21-inch Arachnid wheels, which are staggered to provide superior grip and steering responsiveness. Buyers can choose from six vibrant exterior colors, including the captivating optional Ultra Red, allowing for greater personalization. A subtle yet significant detail is the graphical badge at the rear, featuring a 'Plaid' pattern—a nod to Tesla's top-tier performance heritage.
Underneath its sculpted exterior, the Model Y Performance houses an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. While specific horsepower figures remain undisclosed, Tesla confirms an astonishing 0-60 mph acceleration time of merely 3.3 seconds, a notable two-tenths quicker than its predecessor, with a top speed reaching 155 mph. This impressive performance is supported by new high-density battery cells, pushing the WLTP-claimed range to approximately 360 miles. Although the EPA rating for the US model is expected to be slightly lower, it is anticipated to exceed 300 miles, marking a significant improvement in range confidence. Furthermore, the vehicle now boasts an adaptive damping system, intelligently adjusting handling dynamics to various road conditions, alongside new driving modes designed for exhilarating high-speed experiences.
The interior of the new Model Y Performance has also received considerable attention, aligning with Tesla's broader efforts to elevate cabin luxury and functionality. Enhanced acoustic glass and advanced sound-deadening materials contribute to a noticeably quieter ride. Occupants are greeted by a larger, more immersive 16-inch touchscreen display, serving as the central hub for all vehicle controls and infotainment. The front seats now offer both heating and ventilation, featuring enhanced bolstering and side cushions for improved support during dynamic driving, alongside power-adjustable thigh extenders. Rear passengers benefit from heated seats with a power-reclining function, ensuring comfort on longer journeys. The cabin's performance-oriented theme is reinforced by elegant carbon fiber trim. While a standard all-black interior is available, the optional black and white combination, especially when paired with the Ultra Red exterior, creates a striking contrast. It is important to note that this Model Y variant remains a two-row crossover, accommodating five passengers.
The new Model Y Performance carries a UK price tag of £61,990, translating to approximately $83,600. When it eventually arrives in the U.S., its price is projected to range between $55,000 and $60,000, positioning it competitively against rivals such as the Cadillac Optiq-V, the forthcoming Genesis GV60 Magma, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT.
From a journalist's perspective, the refreshed Tesla Model Y Performance represents a bold declaration from the electric vehicle pioneer, especially after a period of significant scrutiny. It demonstrates Tesla's commitment to continuous innovation, not just in raw performance, but in refining the overall user experience. The integration of advanced features, from adaptive damping to enhanced cabin acoustics, suggests a maturing brand that is increasingly responsive to consumer demands for both exhilaration and luxury. The strategic timing of this release, particularly for international markets, could serve as a vital momentum builder, potentially reversing recent sales trends and reaffirming Tesla's dominance in the global EV market. It’s a testament to how even industry leaders must constantly evolve to stay ahead in a rapidly accelerating technological race.