New Tesla Model 3 Performance revealed: first details and prices

The new Tesla Model 3 Performance is the range-topping version of the popular electric saloon, which joins the recently-facelifted EV line-up as a high-performance halo car. 

Boasting a sports car-rivalling 460PS, the new Tesla Model 3 Performance is the most powerful version yet, and will provide enhanced competition to rivals including the BMW i4, Polestar 2, Hyundai Ioniq 6 and BYD Seal.

Boss Elon Musk boasts the new Tesla Model 3 Performance can out-accelerate a Porsche 911. 

Despite its noteworthy potency, the new Tesla Model 3 Performance also still offers a decent 328-mile range, and easy access to the acclaimed Tesla Supercharger network. 

On sale now, the new Tesla Model 3 Performance costs from £59,990 – exactly £20,000 more than the entry-level Tesla Model 3. If you order now, you could get your new car as soon as June 2024.

Let’s find out what makes the new Tesla Model 3 Performance so special.

How fast is the new Tesla Model 3 Performance?

The new Tesla Model 3 Performance has two electric motors and all-wheel drive to make best use of its 460PS. It can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 2.9 seconds, and go onto a top speed of 163mph.

To handle all this power, the chassis has been performance-tuned, with reinforced components and uprated springs, dampers and anti-roll bars.

There is a Track Mode V3, which integrates adaptive suspension controls with a more performance-optimised powertrain setup.

There are custom controls to alter handling balance, stability controls and regenerative braking, all through a sporty-focused new UI.

The new Tesla Model 3 Performance has what are described as track-ready brakes. They have high-performance brake pads with higher thermal limits and more immediate deceleration. They’re marked out by red brake calipers, which are bespoke to the hottest Model 3.

The new Tesla Model 3 Performance sits lower to the ground and has brand new 20-inch forged alloy wheels with staggered tyres sizes – they are wider at the rear than the front.

Tesla says this gives sharper turn-in response, better predictability and improved traction.

What’s new with the Telsa Model 3 Performance’s styling?

The new Tesla Model 3 Performance has subtle updates compared to standard models. There is a beefier front bumper with new side air intakes, which feed cooling air to the brakes.

There is a bold diffuser at the rear, and only Telsa Model 3 Performance have a carbon fibre bootlid spoiler. This makes the new model more aerodynamic than the previous hot Tesla.

Inside, the new Tesla Model 3 Performance has unique front sports seats. These have an uprated seat cushion and beefy side bolsters, giving more side support during hard cornering. Heated and ventilated seats are available too.

Another unique interior feature for the new Tesla Model 3 Performance is a smart weave pattern for the carbon fibre trim – Tesla says this is a world first.

The new Tesla Model 3 performance’s Vehicle Dynamics Controller provides a unique look to the centre screen too – and it also has the updates to other new Model 3, including better trim quality, more ambient lighting and the controversial replacement of column stalks with indicator buttons on the steering wheel.