Tesla’s redesigned Model 3 sedan is now available in the United States, bringing subtle but noticeable changes to the popular electric vehicle. While Tesla may not boast the widest range of models, its Model 3 and Model Y have dominated sales, and the revamped Model 3 is poised to continue this trend in North America.
Introduced by Tesla CEO Elon Musk in 2016, the Model 3 saw customer deliveries beginning the following year. Unlike conventional automakers that typically release replacement models every four years, Tesla deviated from the norm and opted for a styling refresh after six years.
The updated Model 3, internally referred to as Highland debuted in China in September 2023, and European customers have had access to it since October of the same year. However, changes to the federal tax credit for clean vehicles may have influenced the delayed introduction of the revised Model 3 in the United States, as the vehicle is no longer eligible for the credit in 2024.
Now available in the US, the restyled Model 3 showcases noticeable changes in its lighting. The smaller headlight clusters feature more stylized daylight running lights, akin to the Models S and X. At the rear, the redesigned rear light cluster enhances the overall aesthetics of the car, addressing a previous shortcoming in its design.
Tesla has introduced two new colors for the Model 3:
ultra red and stealth grey. Additionally, the updated version features new wheel designs aimed at reducing drag, ultimately improving the vehicle’s range and minimizing wind noise. Inside, the Model 3 boasts an upgraded interior with user-configurable LED lighting, an enhanced sound system, and an 8-inch touchscreen for rear-seat passengers to interact with.
While the model range has been streamlined, with the discontinuation of the $50,990 Model 3 Performance, Tesla now offers two versions. The rear-wheel-drive Model 3 starts at $38,990, boasting an EPA-estimated range of 272 miles (438 km). On the other hand, the all-wheel-drive Model 3 Long Range starts at $45,990, with an impressive range of 341 miles (549 km). Combined with the refreshed design and improved features, these changes position the Model 3 to continue its success in the electric vehicle market.