Tesla may have revealed the famous new Model 3 Highland, which features significant efficiency upgrades, but we’re still missing one important model. Right now, you can only get the base RWD model or the long-ranged AWD version, but not a Model 3 Performance. It’s widely expected this will be replaced by a Model 3 Plaid. Here’s what to expect.
The launch of the Model 3 back in 2017 wouldn’t have been the same without the Performance version. It took on the BMW M3 sedan in various performance tests all over the world and basically won. Up until that point, the M3 sedan was virtually unbeatable in its class, especially around a race track.
This made the Model 3 Performance the star of YouTube videos from Carwow, Throttle House, Top Gear, and more. At the same time, performance enthusiasts were placing orders with Tesla.
If Tesla put a Model S Plaid powertrain in the Model 3, the electric sedan would become one of the fastest cars ever made because it’s lighter. These renderings from AutoYa reveal the potential design of such a car, and its performance upgrades over the average Model 3 Highland.
Model 3 leak
So what kind of upgrades are we talking about here? Well, a couple of months ago, The Kilowatts published a very relevant leak. The Tesla Parts Catalog virtually confirmed a Model 3 PLAID with the iconic badge on the back of the car, along with a “Dual Motor” chrome scrip. So we know it’s not a tri-motor car.
Further inspection revealed the badge was more likely a Ludicrous mode Paired with an official statement from CEO Elon Musk, who said a Plaid Model 3 wasn’t coming, we know not to expect 1000+ hp from the basic Tesla sedan. However, there’s still room for 550+ hp, and performance upgrades are indeed coming. With a carbon sleeved rear motor, the Model 3 will comfortably get to 60 in under 3 seconds, making it faster than virtually anything you can buy under $100,000. It’s really bad news for the German car manufacturers, particularly AMG and its lackluster C63S launch.
These will include a new wheel design, bigger brakes, and modified suspension. The new performance model will also have brand-new seats and updated dashboard trim.
