Tesla’s fastest SUV has just gone on sales and demand is already outpaced supply. The updated Model Y Performance, now sourced from Germany, is proving one of the most sought-after electric SUVs in the country, despite its higher price.
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Orders Flood In Within Days
After nearly a year’s absence, the Model Y Performance returned to Australia in early September. Order books opened on 5 September 2025, with prices set at $89,400 plus on-road costs.
Within days, insiders say more than half of the first shipment was claimed. Deliveries from this initial allocation are due before year’s end. While Tesla has not confirmed volumes, its website currently lists delivery estimates between December 2025 and February 2026.
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Higher Price, New Source
The Performance variant now comes from Tesla’s Berlin factory, rather than Shanghai, like the rest of the Model Y range. This shift is believed to have lifted production and shipping costs, reflected in the higher price tag, a $6500 increase over its pre-update version earlier this year.
The model also sits $20,500 above the Long Range variant, a larger gap than between Tesla’s Model 3 Long Range and Performance sedans.
Despite its European build, the Model Y Performance avoids tariffs because it falls under the Luxury Car Tax threshold of $91,387. That also keeps it eligible for the Fringe Benefits Tax exemption, a key driver of EV uptake in Australia.
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Specifications and Features
| Feature | Tesla Model Y Performance (2026) |
| Motor setup | Dual electric motors (AWD) |
| Power output | 343kW (reported peak >400kW) |
| 0–100km/h | 3.5 seconds (down from 3.7s) |
| Top speed | 250km/h |
| Battery capacity | ~82.1kWh usable (up from 78.4kWh) |
| Driving range (WLTP) | 580km (up from 514km) |
| Wheels | 21-inch alloys |
| Price (Australia) | $89,400 + ORC |
| Delivery window | Dec 2025 – Feb 2026 |
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Market Context
Last year, the Performance made up only 3.2% of Model Y sales in Australia, equating to 672 units out of more than 21,000 deliveries. By contrast, the Rear-Wheel Drive accounted for nearly 80% of sales, with the Long Range at 17%.
The new allocation suggests Tesla expects higher demand this time, especially given the upgraded specifications and continued FBT advantages.
Key Points
- Tesla’s Model Y Performance returned to Australia on 5 September 2025, priced from $89,400.
- Over half the first shipment is already spoken for, with deliveries due by early 2026.
- The flagship SUV now comes from Tesla’s Berlin factory, driving up costs.
- Performance upgrades include 343kW output, 3.5s 0–100km/h sprint, and 580km WLTP range.
- Despite its European origin, the SUV avoids tariffs and remains eligible for FBT exemptions.
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