Charging speeds are unchanged: the standard car tops out at 170kW and the Long Range version boosts that to 250kW.
As for straight-line speed, the brand quotes a 0-62mph time of 6.1sec for the 245bhp entry-level car, and 4.4sec for the 351bhp Long Range, both of which use the same powertrains as the pre-facelifted car. Both top out at 125mph.
The brand has yet to confirm figures for the 456bhp, four-wheel-drive Model 3 Performance, but based on the current car’s range, it should manage around 360 miles per charge.
Other functional visual tweaks include the introduction of aero-optimised wheel designs, said to be 5% slipperier, and ‘improved’ tyre sidewalls for the 18in or 19in wheels, which enhance cushioning while reducing road noise – the latter assisted by the introduction of double-glazed windows all around and new suspension and seal rubbers.
Tesla also highlights that the front and rear doors have been structurally reinforced to withstand heavier impacts – a move made in line with stricter crash regulations that dictate all cars must be able to withstand a collision with an SUV, given their increasing popularity. A by-product, according to Tesla representatives, is that they have a better-sounding ‘clunk’ when closing, helping to boost the car’s perceived quality.
The Model 3’s cabin has been refreshed, too, ushering in an even more minimalist look. The brighter, more responsive, 15.4in touchscreen has a slimmer surround and the steering column has lost its stalks. Indicators are now operated by buttons on the new-look steering wheel and the drive selector has become a touchscreen icon.
Tesla also highlights an improvement in cabin quality, thanks to the use of real aluminium for the redesigned centre console, upmarket textiles and “elevated levels of execution”. There are now two wireless phone chargers and three USB-C charging ports, plus an 8.0in rear display with climate control and infotainment functions built in.
The refreshed Model 3 will land in the UK early next year. There’s no word on pricing yet, but Autocar understands an increase of between £1000 and £2000 is likely, meaning the line-up will open at around £44,000 and cap out at nearer £60,000 for the Performance.
It is expected that that closely related Tesla Model Y will follow suit with a similar package of upgrades, but Tesla has given no indication of when this will be.
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Tesla Model 3 (Dual Motor) Performance Auto 4WDE 4dr (Performance Upgrade)
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Tesla MODEL 3 (Dual Motor) Long Range Auto 4WDE 4dr
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Tesla MODEL 3 (Dual Motor) Long Range Auto 4WDE 4dr
Tesla Model 3 (Dual Motor) Long Range Auto 4WDE 4dr
Tesla Model 3 (Dual Motor) Performance Auto 4WDE 4dr (Performance Upgrade)
Tesla Model 3 (Dual Motor) Long Range Auto 4WDE 4dr
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