Tesla Model 3 Updated With New Styling And Tech, But Not For USA … Yet
The Tesla Model 3 has been given a mild redesign, but the changes are apparently more than skin deep.
Tesla unveiled the refreshed compact sedan in Asia and Europe, with first deliveries expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
The styling update marks the Model 3’s first since it went on sale in 2017.
It includes a new front fascia, with a slimmer bumper area and more horizontally arranged headlights.
The rear bumper now sports a black, diffuser-style insert.
The dashboard has been restyled and loses its signature wood strip but gains an adjustable ambient light bar that runs below the window line.
The Model 3 gets a new stalkless steering wheel — moving its transmission selector to the central touchscreen — and a rear entertainment screen. Ventilated front seats are offered for the first time and trim materials, including some real metal, have been upgraded.
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According to Tesla, despite its resemblance to the current car, over half of the Model 3’s parts have been changed, which has resulted in a 12% increase in driving range and quieter cabin.
Pricing has been increased a similar amount in most Asian and European markets, which are supplied by production in Shanghai, China. Tesla hasn’t announced when California-built Model 3s that are sold in the U.S. will be refreshed.
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It has, however, lowered the price of the Full Self-Driving feature for the Model 3 and the entire U.S. lineup from $15,000 to $12,000 without explanation.
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Base U.S. prices for the Model S and Model X were also significantly cut by $3,500 and $8,500, respectively, to $74,990 and $79,990, the latter making the Model X eligible for the full $7,500 federal clean car tax credit.
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