Tesla Model 3 2023: what are the differences from the previous model?
The Model 3 marked Tesla's big breakthrough when it was introduced six years ago. Today, Europe's most popular electric car is getting some major aesthetic, quality and technical updates under the Highland moniker. We've put them together for you in an overview.
Tesla Model 3
Tesla Model 3 Highland
Tesla Model 3
Standard range
Tesla Model 3 Highland
Standard range
Improved aerodynamics
The Model 3 "Highland" looks distinctly different, especially with the new headlights, but is still instantly recognisable. At the rear, your eyes are caught by the bright tail lights integrated into the boot lid. Tesla says it has focused on improving the streamline, thereby reducing wind noise and increasing driving range. Together with the optimised rim design, the new bodywork design is said to lower the Cd value from 0.23 to 0.219, a record in this segment.
Two new body colours are added to the colour palette: Ultra Red and Stealth Grey. Ultra Red is a multi-layer paint that creates dynamic depth. Stealth Grey, in turn, is a rich dark grey metallic colour that accentuates the Model 3's shape.
Silent luxury cocoon
The new tyres not only contribute to energy efficiency, they also reduce noise levels on board. Occupants enjoy all the more peace and quiet thanks to the acoustic glass all around, as well as the improved bearing bushings, seals and sound-damping materials.
Tesla has also paid particular attention to the perceived quality of the interior. The Model 3 now uses real aluminium and textiles, and you can now also enjoy ventilated front seats integrated with the automatic air conditioning. Adjustable ambient lighting provides the finishing touch.
New displays
The centre display has the same dimensions as before, but the usable screen area grew from 15 to 15.4 inches thanks to the narrower bezel. It features a customisable user interface and will be enhanced over time with over-the-air updates. The mobile network was improved by 50%, according to Tesla. Dual-band Wi-Fi is available at 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
In the rear, there is also a brand new 8-inch display between the front seats. You can use it to control the rear air conditioning and entertainment. Listening to your own music or watching a movie: it is now possible. Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal are integrated into the system.
Even more clutter-free
Simplicity has always been a key characteristic of the Model 3's interior, but the Highland goes one step further. For instance, the levers on the steering wheel have been replaced by controls on the steering wheel. This will probably take some getting used to, as will the automatic gearshift function, which is carried over from the Model S and Model X. The car 'knows' from context whether you want to drive forward or reverse.
Slightly less revolutionary are the changes to the centre console, which now includes two wireless phone chargers. There are also a total of three USB-C ports in the interior, each with up to 65 W of power. Audiophiles can indulge in the new premium audio system with up to 17 speakers designed by Tesla itself.
Greater driving range
With better streamlining and lower rolling resistance tyres, the Tesla Model 3 Highland gains several dozen kilometres of driving range. The Standard Range now reaches 513 kilometres on a full battery, which can still store 57.5 kWh of net power. In terms of performance, it does not fall short at all: it can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds thanks to its 208 kW electric motor on the rear axle.
Even more power and endurance can be found with the Long Range Dual Motor, which sees its output rise to 366 kW. With that, you can complete the classic zero-to-hundred in 4.4 seconds. The battery is still a net 75 kWh, but it will take you 678 kilometres (WLTP), provided you go for the 18-inch wheels.
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