Tesla slashes prices and increases range for latest Model 3
Tesla has opened orders for its upgraded Model 3, which offers reduced pricing while dialling up the range.
On sale now via the Model 3 Configurator, the facelifted version is priced from £39,990 for the entry-level Rear-Wheel Drive model, down a further £3k after the brand slashed prices at the start of 2023.
It also delivers extra range – standing at 344 miles WLTP with the 18-inch standard wheels or 318 miles with the upgraded 19-inchers. Top speed is 125mph and 0-60mph time is 5.8 seconds.
The Long Range variant is priced at £49,990 and delivers 421 miles of range as standard or 390 with the larger wheels. Top speed echoes the Rear-Wheel Drive version but the 0-60mph time is 4.2 seconds.
The range improvements have been achieved despite the previous powertrains being retained and follow improvements to aerodynamics, including sharper body lines and redesigned wheels and tyres. Other exterior changes include new headlights and a revised bumper.
Exterior updates are, however, generally lowkey as the model stays true to “its sleek, uncluttered design aesthetic” and Tesla says it continues to focus on the Model 3’s “great range and efficiency with sports-car performance and handling at an approachable price point” that have made it a best seller.
More noticeable changes are in the cabin, which has been redesigned with a new centre console and redesigned seats that are now ventilated in the front while heated seats all-round come as standard. The 15.4-inch centre display now comes with a larger useable screen area, while rear passengers now have access to a new 8-inch rear display with integrated climate control, ventilation, entertainment and over-the-air updates. The upgraded Model 3 also introduces steering wheel buttons to replace stalks, customisable ambient lighting wraps around the cabin and gets a Tesla-designed premium audio system and improved connectivity.
Tesla also promises that the cabin is now “whisper quiet”, thanks to acoustic glass all round and improved sound-dampening materials.
The revamped Model 3 launches six years after the first car rolled off the assembly line, credited with having helped shift perceptions about electric vehicles from being seen as niche products to becoming more mainstream.
Deliveries for the updated Model 3 begin in January 2024.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.
