- New entry model cuts $9k from Model 3 price.
- Battery pack carried over from Premium model, even more range.
- Model Y Performance now from Shanghai factory, price reduced.
Tesla has introduced a cheaper version of the Model 3 RWD sedan for New Zealand. At $54,900, it's $9000 less than the Model 3 Premium RWD, despite sharing "proven" battery technology and still offering some high-end features like panoramic glass roof and the option of a full self-driving (supervised) subscription for $159 per month.
The new Model 3 offers similar range and performance to the Premium (which continues). It covers a claimed 572km on a full charge, compared to 520km for the Premium.
"Customers get the Model 3 they know, the silhouette, panoramic glass roof, ride comfort, over-the-air updates and Supercharger network access, at a price point that makes Tesla ownership a straightforward decision," says country director Thom Drew.
What's missing from the budget Tesla Model 3?
The car rides on passive suspension in place of the frequency dependent shock absorbers of the Premium.
Woven textile is introduced into the upholstery, although some vegan leather is retained. The audio system has been downgraded to 7 speakers from 9 and the rear-seat touch screen has been deleted. The ambient lighting has also been scaled back.
Tesla emphasises the new Model 3 retains many high-end features, including power front seats whose position can be saved to a phone-key profile, adaptive matrix LED headlights, eight-camera exterior network and hands-free boot operation.
The configurator is open now, with deliveries expected from late-November.
Updates for Model Y
Tesla says it has added "new capability, finishes, performance and range" across both Model 3 and Model Y for NZ.
A move to Chinese production from Germany for the Model Y Performance has reduced the price to $95,900 (previously $100,900), and two new colour options have been added: Glacier Blue and a Zen Grey interior (as offered on Model Y L).
Model 3 Premium and Performance gain a new 16-inch first-row touchscreen, a dark headliner and the Zen Grey interior option. Model 3 Premium is also available with new 19-inch Dark Nova wheels.
Model 3 Performance benefits from an increase in range, up 29km to a total of 600 km (WLTP) from the 571km currently available.
"Power Share" (essentially vehicle to load, or V2L) is now available across all Model 3 and Model Y variants. Using the vehicle's battery and the Tesla Outlet Adapter, owners can power devices and appliances.
Power Share requires the Tesla Outlet Adapter, sold separately and available from the Tesla Shop. It applies to 2027 model year vehicles only and cannot be retrofitted to existing vehicles.
