Unplugged Performance Road Warrior Wheels Tesla owners have been waiting for are finally here, and the update adds new choices that go beyond styling. If you drive a Model 3 or Model Y, you already know wheel durability and efficiency can make or break the daily experience. With the latest forged 18-inch option, Tesla drivers now get a setup engineered for real-world use, not just showroom appeal.
A Forged Design Built for Tesla Drivers
The Road Warrior wheel family was created to solve a simple problem: Tesla owners need wheels that can withstand both potholes and high mileage. The new 18×8.5 forged design fits every Model 3 and Model Y, including the 2026 Model Y Performance, which just opened preorders in the U.S. These wheels are CNC-forged from 6061-T6 aluminum, with a load rating that exceeds what most daily drivers will ever demand.
Aero Efficiency With Real-World Gains
A wheel upgrade often comes with a trade-off between strength and range. The Road Warrior series was tested in CFD simulations and came within 0.010 Cd of Tesla’s lowest-drag factory wheel. That means owners get aerodynamic support at highway speeds, while the lighter forged structure reduces rolling resistance in city driving.
Everyday Durability and Protection
Driving in the city often means curbs and rough roads. To address that, Unplugged integrated a replaceable aluminum Curb Guard ring. Instead of worrying about cracked rims or cosmetic damage, drivers can swap the ring without even removing the tire. Combined with added sidewall support, these wheels absorb impacts that might otherwise damage suspension parts or tires.
Customer Experiences Speak Volumes
Early adopters are already putting the new wheels through real-world tests. One Model Y driver noted the combination of style and efficiency, while another reported completing a round trip to Buttonwillow Raceway on a single charge, something they could not achieve on stock wheels. Others highlight better highway efficiency and consistent range numbers even under demanding conditions.
Complete Wheel and Tire Packages
For those who want a turn-key setup, Unplugged offers full Road Warrior wheel and tire packages. Customers can choose Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 for year-round grip, Michelin X-Ice Snow or Pirelli Sottozero for winter driving, or EV-focused Hankook iON evo AS for quiet rolling and longevity. Every package includes professional mounting, balancing, and Bluetooth TPMS sensors, shipped ready to install.
Specs and Performance Highlights
The Road Warrior lineup now includes 18×8.5, 19×8.5, and 20×8.5 sizes, all fitting every Tesla Model 3 and Model Y trim worldwide. The new 18-inch size is priced from $2,595 per set, while complete wheel and tire packages start near $3,300. Beyond price, the draw is clear: high load ratings, forged aluminum strength, and aerodynamic efficiency tested against Tesla’s own benchmarks.
Summary
The new 18-inch Unplugged Performance Road Warrior forged wheels expand choices for Tesla Model 3 and Y owners who want strength and efficiency without compromise. From global shipping to a $1,000 trade-in program for OEM wheels, the lineup offers practical solutions for everyday drivers and enthusiasts alike.
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Source: Unplugged Performance