TESLA MODEL 3 HIGHLAND: 8 FACTS ABOUT THE SEDANS BIGGEST UPDATE YET
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The Tesla Model 3 has always been a favorite in the electric vehicle (EV) market, and the latest iteration - known by the code name "Project Highland" - is now turning even more heads. The Tesla Model 3 Highland brings a refreshed design, updated technology, and various improvements that aim to keep it competitive in the rapid and ever-evolving world of electric cars. However, not everything about the Tesla Model 3 Highland refresh is necessarily an improvement. Here are all the key facts to know about the upgraded Model 3.
All key information has been sourced from Tesla directly, unless stated otherwise.
Tesla
Tesla, Inc. is an American electric vehicle manufacturer largely attributed to driving the EV revolution. Through the Model S and subsequent products, Tesla has innovated and challenged industry conventions on numerous fronts, including over-the-air updates, self-driving technology, and automotive construction methods. Tesla is considered the world's most valuable car brand as of 2023, and the Model Y the world's best-selling car in the same year, but the brand's greatest achievement is arguably the Supercharger network of EV charging stations.
The Design Is Sleeker And More Aerodynamic
One of the first things youâll notice about the Model 3 Highland is its updated exterior. Tesla has given the car a more refined look, with a streamlined front bumper and slimmer headlights that enhance its sleekness. In addition, there are restyled C-shaped taillights. This refresh also brings some improvements to aerodynamics, which are always critical for boosting efficiency and range. With a drag coefficient reduced from an already impressive 0.23 to 0.219, the new design helps the car slice through the air more effectively. Not only does this contribute to the Tesla Model 3 Highland looking sharper on the road, but it also improves its energy efficiency and range. Regarding the Model 3 Performance specifically, Tesla claims 5% less drag and a 36% reduction in lift.
A Variety Of Wheel Designs And Two New Colors
The updated range of wheels is as follows:
- 18-inch Photon wheels (standard on RWD and Long Range AWD models)
- 19-inch Nova wheels (optional on RWD and Long Range AWD models)
- 20-inch Warp wheels (standard on Performance model)
Regarding the color palette, Stealth Gray and Ultra Red have been introduced as new options. The former costs nothing extra, but Ultra Red requires another $2,000.
Tesla Model 3 Vs. Tesla Model 3 Performance: 0-60, Price, Range, And More
Is the new Model 3 Performance worth the extra cost over the standard Model 3?
The Interior Displays Have Been Updated
As before, the interior of the Tesla Model 3 is dominated by a large center touchscreen interface. In the latest Highland model, the 15.4-inch display has been upgraded with slimmer bezels than before. Below this screen are two slots for charging mobile phones wirelessly. Rear passengers aren't forgotten, as they now have access to an eight-inch touchscreen of their own. Using this smaller display, those at the back can manage infotainment and climate settings without bothering the driver.
What won't thrill the connected generation is the continued omission of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, or even AM radio, which are functions most people will be accustomed to from other brands. A host of connectivity features are still available for passing the time when waiting for your car to recharge, however. These include:
- Video streaming
- Caraoke
- Music streaming
- Internet browser
Add CarBuzz to your Google News feed.
Cabin Quality Is Better Than Before
Tesla has made notable strides in improving the materials and overall fit and finish of the new Model 3 Highland. Early versions of the Model 3 were often criticized for having an interior that didnât live up to the carâs price tag, but the Highland refresh addresses these concerns. Youâll now find softer materials throughout the cabin, more refined trim details, and a generally higher-quality feel. Wood veneer has made way for an upscale fabric, while the wraparound ambient lighting also creates a more expensive-feeling atmosphere when seated inside. It's not yet a match for BMW or Audi in terms of quality, but at least Tesla is heading in the right direction.
Conventional Column Stalks Are Gone
Tesla is known for embracing a minimalist design philosophy, and the new Model 3 pushes this even further. The traditional gear selector stalk is now gone, replaced by predictive shifting, whereby the car automatically predicts whether you need to be in drive or reverse. It's not always entirely intuitive, so drivers can alternatively select drive or reverse by using the touchscreen or a partially hidden overhead panel. Some might argue that these changes enhance the futuristic vibe, but others will likely miss the physical controls for their simplicity and ease of use. Besides the more complex shifting routine, the latest Model 3 also features touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel for managing turn signals. It's another change that could frustrate drivers coming from a more conventional car.
Seating Comfort Has Been Enhanced
Tesla didnât just improve the interiorâs materials; the Model 3 Highland also offers better seats. Both front and rear passengers now benefit from seats with better cushioning and support, making the car more enjoyable overall. Rear-seat comfort is particularly better, thanks to a new bench seat with a higher front cushion, a more comfortable backrest angle, and improved padding. The Performance model gets its own sporty seat upgrades.
These changes enhance the feeling that the Model 3 refresh is a step up in luxury.
Inside, Model 3 Performance is now equipped with new Sport seats that feature enhanced bolstering and a deeper, more engaging seating position.
- Tesla
Improved Noise Insulation
One of the more subtle but significant improvements in the Tesla Model 3 Highland is the quietness of the cabin. Tesla has added more sound insulation, 360-degree acoustic glass, and better body baffles and sealing, making the Model 3 a much quieter ride. This not only enhances the overall driving experience but also makes everything more comfortable. Whether you're commuting or going on a road trip, the newfound serenity inside the cabin is a welcome change for many drivers.
Class-Leading Performance And Improved Range
Impressive Acceleration Across The Lineup
When it comes to performance, the Tesla Model 3 Highland still leads the pack in many ways. Even in its most basic configuration, the rear-wheel-drive Model 3 offers brisk acceleration, going from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The Long Range and 510-hp Performance variants shave that time down even further, with the latter hitting 60 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system in the higher trims also provides excellent traction and stability, making the Model 3 Highland a joy to drive in all conditions. Add in the instant torque from its electric motors, and you have a car that feels as responsive and exhilarating as ever.
| Tesla Model 3 Project Highland: 0-60 Times By Trim | |
|---|---|
| Rear-Wheel Drive | 5.8 seconds |
| Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive | 4.9 seconds |
| Long-Range All-Wheel Drive | 4.2 seconds |
| Performance All-Wheel Drive | 2.9 seconds |
No Range Anxiety Here
Tesla has long led the way for range on a full charge, and every trim continues to deliver on that promise, thanks to updated software and enhanced aerodynamics. The Long Range RWD leads the way with a 363-mile range, followed by the Long Range AWD's 341 miles. The Performance AWD maxes out at 303 miles, while the cheapest RWD variant gets 272 miles from a full charge.
Tesla's New Model 3 Long Range RWD Finally Breaks The 350-Mile Barrier
The newly-introduced Model 3 Long Range RWD offers buyers the best of both worlds and is eligible for the $7,500 tax credit incentive.
The Competition Has Never Been Tougher
When the Model 3 first debuted, it had relatively few competitors in the EV market. Now, the Model 3 Highland faces fierce competition from brands like Hyundai, Kia, Ford, and even luxury automakers like Audi and BMW. These companies are offering their own highly competitive electric vehicles, some with better features or more attractive pricing. While the Model 3 still holds its own in terms of performance and range, the increased competition means that itâs no longer the clear-cut leader it once was.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 boasts more adventurous styling and nearly matches the best Model 3 on range. Furthermore, luxury rivals like the BMW i4 Gran Coupe are more fun to drive and boast nicer finishes. All the Tesla's rivals also have less divisive controls.
Tesla Can Only Watch As Rivals Steal Its Customers
Tesla still dominates the EV segment, but rival brands are slowly catching up as electric vehicle sales grow slowly yet surely.
Final Thoughts: A Substantial Improvement
The Tesla Model 3 Highland represents a comprehensive refresh of an already popular electric vehicle. With updates like a sleek new design, quieter interior, and improved seating, itâs clear that Tesla has listened to some of the feedback from its users but appears to be reconciling updates into more efficient auto manufacturing. Overall, the Model 3 Highland remains a strong contender in the EV market, but itâs facing stiffer competition than ever before.
2024-09-18T21:38:25Z dg43tfdfdgfdSource: Tesla