Report: Tesla Readying New Model 3 Performance

Chris Teague
by Chris Teague

Tesla released a new Model 3 for 2024, but keen eyes immediately noticed that the automaker had only refreshed two of the car’s three previous configurations. The standard range rear-drive model remained, along with the Model 3 Long Range, but the Performance was nowhere to be found. That could be changing, though, in typical Tesla fashion, there are no official confirmations.


InsideEVs reported that X/Twitter users have been sharing screenshots of leaked documents from South Korea that appear to show a new Model 3 variant with a possible 412-horsepower rear motor. That, combined with the car’s existing front motor, would add up to a potential 618 horsepower, more than a 100-pony boost over the outgoing car. That said, gearing and specific outputs could change before the car lands on our shores.


The documents also show that the new Model 3 Performance could sport a different name, possibly Mode 3 Ludicrous, which would set it apart from the Model S and Model X Plaid performance models. Whatever the configuration, we could get details as soon as this afternoon, as Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen will join a live stream on the car at 5 pm, which will clash with Rivian’s R2 reveal.


As these things typically go with Tesla, the automaker will likely sell all the Model 3 Performance units it can build. At the same time, the new car lost tax credit eligibility and its place as a compelling, affordable EV as a result. While it’s still less expensive than many competitors, the new Performance almost certainly won’t be cheap. That said, the car is still less expensive than some competitors, including vehicles from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.


[Image: Tesla]


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Chris Teague
Chris Teague

Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.

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  • 3SpeedAutomatic Elon took his eye off the ball while pre-occupied with "X" (formerly Twitter). Now, Tesla is coming around and biting him on the arse!!In the car business, you need to keep you finger on the pulse. Momentum will only carry you so far. If in doubt, think Lordstown and Fisker. He thinks technology will solve his problems. However, Telsa has moved from premier product to commodity with other manufacturers entering his exclusive domain. Time for Elon to fly back to Tesla HQ and come up with a long term plan. 🚗🚗🚗
  • Irvingklaws Anymore seems I want a color that is not black, white, red, or some shade of silver/gray. Though I coveted them when I was younger, I also seem to have developed an aversion to all-black interiors. I have a deep negative reaction to any vehicle identifying as "triple black". Don't even get me started on black wheels...I'm not the only one. We're looking to replace my wife's silver CX-5 and one of her few non-negotiable prerequisites is that it be "a color" not in the aforementioned list. It's looking like a Cascade Green Forester with a light gray interior is in her future.
  • Bd2 I dig it, Pure Pazaak!
  • 3-On-The-Tree My C6 is all blacked out, the rims are matte black and interior all black with no contrast. I was never a fan of chrome rims and lots shiny chrome/silver trim etc.
  • JMII Here are all the colors I've owned in order: tan, red, black, red, yellow, green, green, black, blue, silver, white, orange, red, blue and blue.So yeah I love colors...
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