Tesla Launches New Model Y Performance – Could It Be The Next EV Drifter?

You may be wondering why we’re debating whether the latest Tesla could be a great drift car. Don’t worry, it’s not clickbait; there’s a genuine reason the latest EVs are now being considered for their drifting potential.

Recently, DriftHQ, along with steering lock wizards, Wisefab, decided to transform a bone-stock Model 3 with a selection of drifting upgrades to see if it could hang with the likes of Nissan Silvias and BMW 3-Series’ you’d usually expect to see at the track.

Much to the surprise of just about every drifting fan, it was a resounding success. They even let former Formula DRIFT champion Chelsea DeNofa get behind the wheel to throw down some backwards entries!

However, Chelsea’s main complaint was, “It needs way more power”. It has “tons of power until about 65 mph,” but after that point, “… it just doesn’t have the balls.” Fair criticism, given that it’s a stock Model 3.

Enter the latest potential solution – the 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance.

Performance Improvements

Unlike the Model 3, which has under 300 horsepower, the Model Y Performance produces a significantly improved 460 horsepower. Surely that’d leave Chelsea with an even bigger grin?

The added power launches the midsize SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds (3.5 seconds for 0 to 100 km/h) – a significant improvement over the previous Model Y’s 4.8 seconds.

Although Tesla hasn’t revealed the battery capacity, it states that the new Model Y Performance utilizes higher-density cells, offering a WLTP range of approximately 360 miles (580 km).

Fast charging has also been improved, providing 150 miles (243 km) of range in just 15 minutes.

Styling Tweaks

Alongside the revised front and rear bumpers, and a funky, futuristic light bar (which may not be to everyone’s taste).

There are also new 21-inch forged wheels wrapped in “optimized tires” paired with Brembo-esque red brake calipers.

Further exterior tweaks include a carbon rear spoiler, which isn’t just for show, as it improves aerodynamics by increasing downforce and reducing drag.

Inside, classy yet comfortable bolstered sport seats look useful for holding you in, while also introducing heating and ventilation functions. The sporty vibes continue with a new carbon-fiber trim and aluminum pedals.

On the dash, a fresh 16-inch QHD touchscreen (featuring around 80% more pixels) replaces the old 15.4-inch model.

Handling & Suspension Upgrades

Tesla opted for an adaptive suspension system directly borrowed from the Model 3 Performance, but with upgraded springs, anti-roll bars, bushings, and a reinforced rear body structure.

The improved setup delivers real-time tuning, multiple drive modes (including a “Sport” setting), and sharper high-speed handling, replacing the old frequency-selective passive dampers used in previous Model Y trims.

We’re sure DriftHQ would still opt for some further drift-focused improvements before trying to throw it sideways, though!

Conclusion – Could It Make An Ideal Drifter?

Unfortunately, despite having the power potential that DriftHQ’s Model 3 lacked, the Performance variant is only available in all-wheel drive.

Since it’s unlikely anyone will be rolling out an aftermarket drivetrain swap for an EV, it’ll have to be a ‘no’. For now, at least, unless they have another trick up their sleeve!

While there are also two rear-wheel drive 2026 Model Y offerings, the standard and ‘Long Range’ models, the 0-60 times aren’t nearly as impressive, at 5.6 seconds and 5.4 seconds, respectively.

Given that the latest Model 3’s Long Range RWD model is capable of a 4.9-second 0-60 mph acceleration, that likely remains the better bet for now.

Additionally, there’s no official date for when the 2026 Model Y Performance will arrive in the US, although an update is expected soon. Currently, they’re rolling it out only in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.