Is the Tesla Model 3 Performance up to the mark?

Finally, here is the long-awaited Tesla Model 3 Performance. So, a new sporty variant or a slightly upgraded all-wheel-drive Model 3?

We wondered whether Tesla would just turn up the power knob and add a badge on the trunk. In the end, the manufacturer could have done it because the technical base of the Tesla 3 Highland can easily handle more power without the chassis twisting in laughter or the brakes going up in smoke. But Tesla played along and offers us a true Performance model.

Before diving into the technical specs, let’s take a quick look at the bodywork. While still far from the M-itzy BMW or AMG Mercedes preparations, Tesla has put in a bit of effort. The car sports very nice specific front and rear bumpers, a rear diffuser, and a small carbon fiber rear spoiler. Special mention for the gorgeous raw carbon front spoiler that adds an extra touch of aggressiveness to the Highland model’s face. The previous generation now looks quite dated! Add to this some beautiful lightweight 20-inch wheels slightly offset, and the overall look—while not overdone—creates a charming appearance and especially enhances high-speed stability.

This is crucial because high-performance electric blocks now develop a combined power of 460 horsepower and offer 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 3.1 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 260 km/h. While not quite an hypercar, it’s the most powerful and fastest Model 3 ever designed.

Beautiful outside but Tesla is primarily sporty

Under the bodywork, there is a completely new adaptive suspension, controlled by proprietary software ten times more responsive than previous iterations. It offers better control over pitch, roll, and dive, without sacrificing handling or comfort. The setup becomes firmer when the renowned V3 track mode is activated. Additionally, it is possible to customize stability controls and regenerative braking to tailor the vehicle to your preferences. The thermal management of the brakes has been optimized with new alloys to ensure consistent bite across a wider temperature range.

In the cabin, dressed with specific carbon fiber inserts, we find the new ergonomic sport seats with lateral reinforcement. A small luxury: they are ventilated to help keep you cool while you race through curves at very high speed.

Priced at €55,990, the package is almost perfect. The look sets it apart from the standard model, the range remains excellent at 528 km officially in WLTP cycle, and the reliability issues from the first generation Model 3 seem to be resolved in the Highland evolution. Most importantly, you’d have to spend three to four times this amount to find a comparable combustion engine model…

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