- The Tesla Model Y remains one of the world’s most popular cars for many reasons.
- In some states, it’s already relatively low price gets even better thanks to incentives.
- The Performance, available for as little as $32,000, hits 60 mph in around 3.5 seconds.
Tesla is currently transitioning to its updated Model Y Juniper, but for now, the $59,990 Limited Edition of the refreshed crossover is the only option available in the United States. However, many pre-facelift models are lingering in stock, including several of the top-tier Model Y Performance trims. To clear out this inventory, Tesla is offering some huge discounts, and the deals are surprisingly good. In fact, in some states with additional incentives, you can snag one for under $33,000.
More: We Compare The 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper Side-By-Side With Its Predecessor
Before you click “Buy,” keep in mind that the updated Model Y offers several key improvements over the first generation. Beyond cosmetic changes like a new front and rear design, it features reduced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), a revamped suspension to address earlier complaints, and upgraded interior materials. Plus, a new Model Y Performance version is on the way.
Looking at Europe and China, where the standard versions of the new Model Y Juniper are already available, we expect the updated version to launch in the next month or so at a similar price point (without any discounts in the beginning) to the current model. Something to consider if you’re eyeing the older model.
Nearly $20,000 Off—With Some Catch
Right now, the brand has several Model Y Performance examples in stock and these aren’t cars that have been sitting around for a year or more. Most are 2025 model year cars and Tesla has hacked up to $8,000 off the price in some cases.
Stack on that the $7,500 federal tax credit and additional discounts available in states like Colorado ($3,850), Illinois ($4,000), New Jersey ($2,000), Vermont ($2,500), Massachusetts ($3,500) and others, and you’re looking at just shy of $20,000 off the MSRP of $51,490. That means this car can be yours for less than $33,000 before taxes and delivery fees, an absolute steal. Plus, with Tesla’s direct-sales model, there’s no haggling—just a simple press of a button.
To put that into perspective, that’s around the price of a near-base compact SUV. For example, the base 2025 Subaru Forester starts at $29,995, with the next trim, the Premium, starting at $32,310.
Keep in mind that Tesla’s Model Y Performance, believed to produce around 470 hp, can rocket from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds with a rollout. That’s quicker than a new Ford Mustang Dark Horse, a Toyota Supra, a Porsche 911 Carrera and only 0.1 seconds slower than the Aston Martin Vantage. We’re talking about bonafide speed at what is essentially the price of a base Honda CR-V. There’s little question which is more fun to drive.
Not Just Speed. It’s Practical, Too
At the same time, it’s not as if this is some one-trick pony. The Model Y Performance offers a claimed 277 miles of range, five seats (or optionally seven for two very small kids), up to 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. That’s as much space for gear as some three-row SUVs. Furthermore, it also comes with a solid list of standard kit, including vegan leather, 21-inch wheels, and a full safety suite.
Of course, all of this comes with a caveat. Right now, anything related to Tesla—whether it’s owners, stores, or Supercharger stations—is under fire from several directions. To be clear, none of this is the fault of the owners, but it’s still something to keep in mind. At least, in this case, they can outrun just about anyone who might try to chase them down to slap a sticker on their car.
