Tesla’s much-anticipated Model 3 facelift (codenamed “Highlander”) has finally landed in North America, bringing with it a sleeker look, longer range, and a few minor pricing changes.
U.S. MSRP: While the official starting price is $38,990 for the rear-wheel-drive model and $45,990 for the all-wheel-drive model, don’t be fooled by the lower price shown in the configurator. Tesla pre-deducts “$3,000 in potential incentives and gasoline savings,” but that still applies to the full price. So keep the extra $3,000 in mind when you’re budgeting.
CANADIAN COOL: For our Canadian neighbors, the base prices are C$53,990 and C$63,990, respectively.
BODY COLOR: North America offers “Stealth Gray” for free as a base option, while Europe offers “Pearl White Multi-Coat” for free. For U.S. enthusiasts who prefer Pearl White, there’s an additional $1,000 to pay in addition to the “Dark Blue Metallic.” If you crave ‘Pure Black’, you’ll pay an extra $1,500, while the striking new ‘Ultra Red’ costs an extra $2,000.
PRODUCTION MYSTERY: Where will the North American ‘Hundred’ be born? Tesla remains tight-lipped, stating only that it is currently producing models in China for the Asian and European markets. However, with the launch of the North American market, production in Fremont seems imminent, if not already underway.
HIGHLANDER HIGHLIGHTS: Tesla has made improvements to the Highlander’s design, features, and possibly technology. The most noticeable changes are a redesigned front and rear end with new headlights and taillights, as well as new rim options. There’s also good news for range enthusiasts: all versions have increased range, up to 322 miles with rear-wheel drive (WLTP) and 391 miles with all-wheel drive.
Tesla’s takeaway: The updated Model 3 brings a sleeker new package to the North American market, though there are still some pricing nuances and production mysteries to be unraveled. For fans of Tesla’s electric revolution, however, the wait for the Highlander is finally over, and it’s set to hit the roads of the North American continent with longer range and a modernized look.