Hey everyone, DennisCW here! If you're in the market for a Tesla Model Y, you might be eyeing the high-octane Performance version. But hold on—after diving into a recent review from Top Gear (or should I say Top Gun vibes?), I'm convinced it's not the best choice for most drivers. In this post, I'll break down why the Model Y Performance might not be worth the splurge, share some smart buying strategies, and highlight essential accessories to enhance your Tesla experience. Let's get into it!
Top Gear recently got their hands on a Tesla Model Y Performance in that eye-catching Ultra Red color. Their video is a must-watch—it's short, slick, and makes the car look incredibly sporty. They toned down the colors in the edit, giving it a premium, aggressive vibe. Imagine it with tinted windows and sides; it'd be an absolute head-turner! It even had me second-guessing if Ultra Red is the ultimate pick for a Performance model.
But here's the kicker: At the end of the review, host Tom straight-up advises, "Don't buy this Tesla." And honestly, I agree. While the Performance packs a punch with blistering acceleration, it's just not necessary for everyday driving.
For the vast majority of people, the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is more than enough. It hits 0-60 mph in about 5-6 seconds— that's super fast and plenty comfortable for daily commutes, highway merges, or even some fun drives. The Performance model, on the other hand, can feel harsh with its stiffer suspension, making it less ideal unless you're a speed demon or track enthusiast.
The price premium is another big factor. You're looking at an extra $10,000 to $15,000 for the Performance, and that's without factoring in potential tax credits like the $7,500 federal incentive. If you're on the fence, here's a pro tip: Lock in that credit now with a $250 deposit on a Long Range AWD or even the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) version as a backup plan. If the Performance ends up being too pricey, you can pivot easily.
Better yet, go for the Long Range AWD and add Tesla's Acceleration Boost for just $2,000. It shaves off precious seconds on your 0-60 time without the full Performance commitment. And let's not forget—the Long Range RWD is hands-down the best value in the lineup for most buyers. It's efficient, affordable, and delivers on Tesla's core promises without breaking the bank.
What do you think? Are you team Performance for the thrill, or team Long Range for smart savings? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—I'd love to hear from you!
Once you've snagged your Model Y (or Model 3), you'll quickly realize it comes with zero accessories. Not even basics like floor mats or a phone mount. But don't worry—I've got recommendations that'll make your Tesla life way better.
First up, protect your interior with a set of all-weather floor mats from 3W. These are my absolute favorites—they fit perfectly, come with a lifetime warranty, and are a steal compared to Tesla's OEM options. Use promo code Dennis35 for an exclusive 35% off! It's a massive discount that brings the price way down. We've got them in all our Teslas, and they're a game-changer for keeping things clean. Check the link in the description to grab yours and support the channel.
Tesla ownership gets even better with the right gear. My partners at Joah have you covered with high-quality, practical accessories that I personally use. Here's a quick list of essentials:
But Joah goes beyond the basics:
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At the end of the day, while the Model Y Performance is undeniably cool, it's not the smartest buy for everyone. Prioritize value with the Long Range options, secure those incentives, and kit out your ride with must-have accessories. If you're about to pull the trigger on a Tesla, what's your plan? Share in the comments, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit those links to support the channel.
Thanks for reading—stay charged!
-DennisCW
Tesla enthusiast and EV expert. Sharing tips on maximizing your Tesla ownership experience.