SPY PICS: Facelifted Tesla Model 3 spied in US
Sighting comes only a week after report claimed an update for Australia’s top-selling EV was in the worksFirst spy images of an updated Tesla Model 3 have appeared online just a week after rumours of its imminent release started swirling around, confirming there is indeed a facelift coming for the aging but award-winning electric sedan, which remains Australia’s favourite EV.
Spotted in the US shrouded under a thick black camouflage wrap front and rear, the facelifted Model 3 can be seen clearly in these images posted to the Cochespias forum over the weekend.
The positioning of the camo suggests only mild exterior design tweaks at either end and it seems any major changes to the interior could be off the table given the obvious lack of camo within the cabin.
Unfortunately, a dedicated interior shot isn’t included in the trio of images, but it’s clear nothing’s changed when it comes to the cabin or basic dashboard layout, which continues to be dominated by an expansive portrait-style infotainment screen.
Odds are the infotainment system will score new graphics and perhaps an upgraded operating system to help keep it remain comparable with the more modern systems being fitted to the increasing array of younger Model 3 rivals coming out of Asia and Europe.
Tweaks to the battery-electric drive system are also likely, primarily in the form of revised battery chemistry or capacity, which should result in an increased driving range.
The upgraded battery could feasibly go hand in hand with a marginal power bump for the electric motors, even if the extra shove is liberated via a simple software update as opposed to new physical power units.
The Model 3 upgrade is reportedly being carried out under the project codename ‘Highland’ and production is set to start in the third quarter of next year according to anonymous sources within Tesla.
A facelift and powertrain update should ensure the Model 3 stays at the top of the local EV sales game a while longer, pending any major supply issues or until it’s usurped by its SUV sibling, the Tesla Model Y.
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