Tesla updates its bestseller. The American brand presented a new version of the Model 3 this Friday, September 1, confirming persistent rumors for many months. A model that will be exhibited at the Tesla stand at the Munich fair, which begins next week.
“After more than 2 million units delivered worldwide, we announce a significant evolution of the long-range all-wheel drive Model 3,” Tesla announced in a press release. In France, this model was very successful with more than 70,000 units sold.
Orders are already open and the first deliveries are scheduled for October or November 2023 in France.
A more aerodynamic front
On the front we notice the new light signature, with modified headlights.
“Sharper lines and streamlined body surfaces reduce drag, reduce wind noise and help increase range,” Tesla said.
In fact, autonomy gains about twenty kilometers for both versions, from 513 km for the Model 3 Propulsion with 19-inch wheels to 678 km for the Long Autonomy with 18-inch wheels.
a little bigger
This new Model 3 is a little bigger, 3 centimeters longer to look like 4.72 meters. The wheelbase remains at 2.88 meters.
There are also two new colours, “Red Ultra” and “Grey Stealth”, as well as “new wheels with improved aerodynamics, combined with optimized tires to reduce noise and increase range”.
Behind, Tesla in full
The rear of the Model 3 also changes with small details: the rear lights stand out with a new design, the complete Tesla inscription that replaces the T logo and a diffuser closer to that of its older brother, the Model S.
Interior, ventilated seats and new ambient lighting.
With its highly refined interior, the Model 3 had broken the cabin codes. Even without a screen behind the wheel, the information remains concentrated on the central 15.4-inch touch screen. An identical format, but with a larger area of use thanks to thinner edges.
Probably the most daring bet: Tesla eliminates the steering wheel controls. The turn signals pass through the steering wheel by means of tactile buttons, on the left side.
The small touch of wood disappears on the dashboard. Tesla references the use of high-end materials, “including premium aluminum and textiles. All assembled with precision.”
A customizable colored light strip now surrounds the cabin. Also highlight the seats that are now ventilated in the front, as well as heated (front and rear).
Finally, rear passengers can now enjoy a small 8-inch screen to control the air conditioning or enjoy entertainment.
From 37,990 euros with bonus
Although the rumors spoke of a cheaper Model 3, especially in the current context of “price wars”, all the modifications made and the additions of equipment end up driving the prices up a bit.
The Model 3 Propulsion has a starting price of 42,990 euros, or 1,000 euros more. You continue to be entitled to the 2023 ecological bonus of 5,000 euros, whose maximum limit is 47,000 euros.
The Model 3 Grande Autonomie starts above this ceiling, with 50,990 euros.
We can also note the disappearance of the Performance version, which represented the high-end Model 3.
Not (yet) for Americans
Note that this new Model 3 is the one that is manufactured at the Tesla factory in Shanghai for the markets of Europe, Asia and Oceania.
A date for the launch of this new Model 3 in North America and, in particular, in the United States, has not yet been announced, where the configurator continues to offer the old versions, including the latest Performance version.
As a consolation, Tesla has made significant price cuts on its Model S and Model X in the US market.
Source: BFM TV
