Christina Nixon
This spring wasn’t just about the sunlight cutting through the rain-drenched skies or the blossoms returning to the UK after a grey, northern winter. I discovered a quiet confidence in the idea of stepping into something new, which led me to book my first driving test, with none other than the Tesla Model Y Performance at the Tesla Centre in Leeds. More than just an electric vehicle, the Model Y Performance showcases cutting-edge technology, intuitive controls, and a driving experience that feels engineered for the future. These Tesla test drive insights redefine what comfort, design, and innovation can look like on the road.
Thinking of going electric? This is a vehicle that barely makes a sound when it moves, that opens itself with a tap of your phone, and that feels like it knows what you’re thinking before you even touch the accelerator. Inside, the cabin featured Tesla’s signature clean layout with a panoramic glass roof and a 15-inch central touchscreen that controls nearly every function.
Starting the vehicle was almost imperceptible; there was no engine rumble, no mechanical lag. With a gentle press on the accelerator, the car glided forward in near silence. The instant torque delivered by Tesla’s dual-motor all-wheel-drive system was smooth, confident, and incredibly responsive, offering a drive experience that felt both premium and intuitive.
The Model Y Performance is not your average SUV. It’s not even your average electric SUV. It’s a masterpiece of engineering designed for people who want more—more speed, more control, more connection. Key specifications include:
- Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive: Offers superb traction on any road. Whether you’re gliding through wet cobblestones in Leeds or flying down a country lane, the grip feels intuitive.
- 0–60 mph in 3.5 seconds: Yes, you read that right. In an SUV. And it feels effortless.
- Top Speed 155 mph: Not that I tested that in Leeds traffic, but knowing it’s there adds a thrill.
- Range: Approximately 319 miles (WLTP)
- Lowered Suspension for Improved Handling: Gives the car a low, aggressive feel—without sacrificing comfort.
- Performance Brakes and Aluminum Pedals
- Überturbine Wheels: Designed for maximum performance and aesthetic edge.
All of that sounds impressive on paper, but behind the wheel, it becomes something else. It becomes emotional. A sensation of being connected to the road, the car, and—unexpectedly—yourself.
Its rapid acceleration is balanced with refined control, allowing for dynamic handling without sacrificing comfort. The regenerative braking system, combined with low center-of-gravity handling, contributes to a composed yet agile drive.
Tesla’s reputation for in-car technology is well deserved.
These are the features explored during the Tesla test drive:
- Autopilot with Lane-Keep Assist: The way Tesla holds its lane and keeps distance from other vehicles is nothing short of reassuring.
- Real-time Navigation and Traffic Data
- 360° Camera System and Ultrasonic Sensors
- Voice Command Integration: The real gem. A simple “Take me home” or “Open glovebox” made the whole experience feel hands-free and human.
- Smart Navigation: The real-time traffic data, alternative routes, and Supercharger station locations were all built-in and incredibly intuitive.
Tesla’s legendary tech isn’t just a gimmick. It’s genuinely transformative—especially if you’re a new or nervous driver.
The infotainment system is intuitive and fluid, offering entertainment, navigation, and vehicle data with minimal distraction. Over-the-air software updates allow Tesla to deliver new features and improvements long after purchase, turning the Model Y into a continuously evolving platform.
If you’re new to Tesla, the various Model Y versions can feel a bit confusing. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand how the Model Y, Model Y Performance, and the new version of Model Y Performance compare:
- Model Y Long Range
- Dual Motor AWD
- 0–60 mph: ~4.8 seconds
- Top Speed: 135 mph
- Range: ~331–351 miles
- Ideal for balanced performance and maximum efficiency
- Model Y Performance (pre-2024)
- Dual Motor AWD with performance upgrades
- 0–60 mph: 3.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 155 mph
- Sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, visual enhancements
- New Model Y Performance (2024 refresh)
- Hardware 4.0 for enhanced Full Self-Driving capabilities
- Updated interior with ambient lighting and sound system
- Improved suspension and thermal management
- Ventilated seats and refined driver assistance features
The new version feels even more refined, particularly with enhancements to ride comfort, build quality, and noise reduction—areas that mattered most to me during the drive. It’s a clear evolution, especially for lifestyle-focused drivers who want premium finishes without giving up speed.
Connectivity and Charging: A Plug Into the Future
The Model Y Performance integrates seamlessly with Tesla’s Supercharger network, allowing for convenient travel throughout the UK and beyond. Charging infrastructure is mapped in real-time through the onboard navigation system, and charging up to 175 miles in approximately 15 minutes makes long-distance journeys feasible. As a side note, we’ve had a 25% battery in our test car, which only dropped 6% in 2 hours. For travel enthusiasts, this means weekend escapes or longer road trips can be enjoyed with minimal interruption.
This Tesla test drive wasn’t just about the power or the tech. It was also the feeling that this car was made for people like me—people who want to feel safe, seen. If you’re entering the world of driving or looking to upgrade to a high-performance EV, the Tesla Model Y Performance delivers a uniquely futuristic yet user-friendly experience.
For those in the automotive or travel industries, it offers an exciting benchmark of where innovation is headed—without compromising everyday usability.
*Photos by Iconic Magazine Online
This Tesla test drive introduced me to a cutting-edge electric SUV that felt more like a glimpse into the future than a conventional car. However, the company has discontinued the sale of the legacy Model Y in North America, meaning you won’t find new Performance models at Tesla retail locations. Tesla may still sell the older Model Y in some regions outside of North America, and many dealerships and private sellers still have older Model Y Performance models in their inventory.
Cost of Ownership and Environmental Benefits
Owning an electric vehicle brings long-term savings beyond the pump. Tesla’s low running costs, minimal maintenance needs, and exemption from many UK road taxes contribute to its appeal. Moreover, the Model Y Performance represents a move towards more sustainable travel, aligning with the growing demand for cleaner mobility options.
For those conscious of their carbon footprint, this vehicle offers a viable alternative that doesn’t compromise on luxury or performance.
My test drive at Tesla Leeds offered more than a glimpse into what modern vehicles can achieve. It revealed the possibilities now available to every driver, blending style, intelligence, and environmental awareness into one seamless experience.
Whether you’re considering your first EV, upgrading from another model, or looking for a travel-friendly yet thrilling SUV, the Model Y Performance stands out.
As EV infrastructure grows and technology advances, cars like this will become the new normal. If you’re ready to be part of the next generation of mobility, the insights gained from this test drive suggest there’s never been a better time to make the switch.
Tesla’s Model Y Performance proves that the future of driving is not only electric—it’s exceptional.
