Tesla launched the refreshed Model Y, often referred to as ‘Juniper’, in January 2025. However, as it often does with design refreshes, Tesla didn’t launch the performance version of the best-selling electric SUV with the broader refresh. The automaker stopped taking orders for Model Y Performance, but we have been expecting the variant to make a comeback under the Juniper design by the end of the year. Advertisement - scroll for more content While cycling near Tesla’s Palo Alto engineering headquarters, an Electrek reader spotted a Tesla Model Y prototype in camouflage, which we quickly identified as a Model Y Performance with the Juniper design refresh: What makes us think this is a Model Y Performance? The wheels look like Plaid 20″ wheels, which are generally reserved for performance versions. If we zoom in, we can also see that the Model Y appears to feature bigger red brake calipers – another feature that Tesla only offers on performance versions of its vehicles. Before the refresh, the Model Y Performance achieved an EPA-estimated range of 277–285 miles (446-459 km), depending on the wheel configuration.