The Updated Tesla Model 3: A Closer Look
Byline: Motor1 Italy
Location: Oslo, Norway
The much-anticipated restyling of the Tesla Model 3, previously known as “Project Highland,” has finally arrived. Tesla has given its popular electric car a makeover, with updates to its exterior design, sound insulation, suspension, seating, and software. Motor1 Italy had the opportunity to test drive the new Model 3 in Oslo, Norway, and here are their impressions.
Exterior Design:
The new Model 3 boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design. The front end no longer features the characteristic upward-stretched headlights and instead has a grille-less nose with a small horizontal air intake at the bottom of the bumper. The updated side view has a more integrated look, and the car has grown slightly in size compared to the previous model. The new Model 3 is 185.8 inches long, 74.0 inches wide, and 56.7 inches high, with a wheelbase of 113.4 inches. It comes in new body colors, including Ultra Red and Stealth Gray.
Interior Upgrades:
Inside, the trunk lid now has an extra actuator, increasing cargo capacity to 20.9 cubic feet. The rear bench has been reconfigured, and the front seats are now ventilated. Rear passengers have an 8.0-inch touchscreen for adjusting climate control and music, as well as access to YouTube, Netflix, and other streaming platforms. The car also features new dimmed ambient lights, customizable dashboard inserts, and an updated steering wheel with touch controls.
Improved Driving Experience:
The suspension has been upgraded, resulting in better absorption of road imperfections. The steering response is slightly less prompt but feels more progressive and linear. The Model 3 has new tires developed for improved rolling resistance and road absorption. The updated model provides better sound insulation, thanks to modifications to the interior reinforcement structure and double glazing in the rear windows. The car is equipped with cameras for Tesla Vision, improving its capability to monitor the surroundings.
Power and Range:
The updated Model 3 comes in two variants. The rear-wheel-drive version has a single permanent magnet electric motor with an output of 283 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. It can go from 0 to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds and has a range of 344 miles with 18-inch wheels. The long-range version features a dual-motor setup, delivering 498 horsepower and 364 pound-feet of torque. It achieves 0-62 mph in 4.4 seconds and has a range of 391 miles with 19-inch wheels. Both models have improved overall efficiency, with the long-range variant offering significant range improvements.
Price and Availability:
The new Model 3 has a starting price of $45,500 for the rear-wheel-drive variant and $53,500 for the long-range variant. These prices are based on the European market and have been converted to USD at the current exchange rate. The Model 3 is currently being produced in Tesla’s Giga Shanghai plant in China.
In conclusion, the updated Tesla Model 3 offers a more refined driving experience, with improved aesthetics, interior comfort, and driving dynamics. With increased range and improved efficiency, it is a compelling option for those considering an electric vehicle.