Facelifted 2024 Tesla Model 3 revealed
New exterior look, updated cabin and more tech bring reasonable price increases to Tesla’s best-selling electric sedanThe facelifted 2023 Tesla Model 3 has been revealed and priced, with the upgraded mid-size electric sedan set to start from $61,900 plus on-road costs and arrive in Australia in the first quarter of next year.
That opening figure is of course for the entry-level variant now simply known as ‘Model 3’, while the higher-spec Long Range variant starts from $71,900, marking prices increases of $4500 and $1500 respectively compared to the equivalent pre-facelift versions.
The extra outlay brings an obviously overhauled exterior design, a reworked interior comprising new seats, revamped chassis tune and more driver-assistance technologies to help make the new Model 3 as efficient, comfortable and safe as possible.
At this stage it seems there are no changes to any of the mechanical components, meaning the familiar 6.1- and 4.4-second 0-100km/h acceleration times remain, however, top speeds have been capped at 201km/h.
The slippery looking new body has a claimed drag co-efficient of just 0.219Cd, which in turn has boosted the base model’s WLTP range from 491km to 513km, and the Long Range’s from 602km to 629km.
Underneath the new skin are equally new suspension bushings working to improve ride quality and provide a quieter drive experience, in tandem with what Tesla calls ‘360-degree acoustic glass technology’ and extra sound-proofing.
Occupants are cocooned in a revamped interior comprising fewer individual components and “less clutter”, with many of the once-physical controls – like the indicators – being turned into buttons and moved to the steering wheel.
A 15.4-inch central display still take pride of place on the dash and is powered by an all-new operating system with faster response times and better graphics.
A second 8.0-inch display has been installed ahead of the back seats so passengers in the rear can access the climate controls and entertainment while on the fly.
Other cabin changes include the addition of an ambient light system, ventilated front seats paired to the climate control, redesigned centre console, virtual gear selector (via the primary touch-screen), plusher materials and a new multi-function steering wheel.
The whole package is kept in check by Tesla’s next-generation vehicle stability control system and the familiar suite of camera-based driver aids.
Optional equipment for the updated Model 3 will include Enhanced Autopilot ($5100), Full Self-Driving Capability ($10,100) and two-tone 19-inch alloy wheels ($1500).
Two new paint finishes – Stealth Grey and Ultra Red – have been added to the exterior colour palette and customers can still choose from a black or white interior.
Missing from the update is the range-topping Performance variant, which we assume will be revealed and released at a later date with all the same upgrades as its lesser stablemates plus a sportier disposition.
First released in the US and China in 2016, the original Tesla Model arrived Down Under in late 2019 and quickly because Australia’s top-selling EV, before it was gazumped this year by the closely-related Model Y medium SUV.
How much does the 2023 Tesla Model 3 cost?
Model 3 – $61,900
Long Range – $71,900
* Prices exclude on-road costs
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