Tesla has officially taken the wraps off the eagerly anticipated refreshed version of its compact electric sedan, the Model 3 project “highland” (First Look: Tesla Model 3 Facelift Revealed in Leaked, Code-Named ‘Highland’). This marks the first major update to the car since its original launch in 2017. The redesigned Model 3 brings noticeable changes to the exterior styling, interior design, and tech features, aiming to keep the EV a compelling option in the competitive segment.
The most striking update is to the Model 3’s exterior design. The front end has been completely reworked with a smooth hood, reshaped headlights, and a new fascia that ditches the previous version’s pronounced grille. The rear end has also been redesigned for a sleeker look, with full-width tail lights and a refreshed trunk lid.
Inside, Tesla has spruced up the Model 3’s minimalist cabin with more premium materials and new tech. The 15-inch center touchscreen is now frameless and appears to float above the dashboard. Ventilated front seats and heated rear seats are now available for the first time. There’s also ambient interior lighting offered in several colors.
The steering wheel has been redesigned minus the scroll buttons, replaced by touch-sensitive controls. Tesla has also removed the radar sensor, meaning the Model 3 now relies solely on cameras for its driver-assistance features. A new rear-seat entertainment screen has been added behind the center console.
Performance and range have also been boosted. The rear-wheel Long Range model can now travel up to 423 miles on a charge, up substantially from the previous 353 miles. The Performance version clocks 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
Tesla is taking orders for the new Model 3 now, with pricing still starting at $46,990. Deliveries to Chinese customers are slated to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. With its fresh style and upgraded tech, the reinvented Model 3 aims to maintain its status as the most popular and affordable EV on the market.