2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance Preview
Are you in the market for a four-door electric vehicle (EV) to use as a daily driver and a track day car? Then look no further than the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance.
Like other versions of the Tesla Model 3, the Performance offers a quiet, comfortable, and minimalistic interior loaded with tech, all accessed via its 15.4-inch center touchscreen display. Unlike the other Model 3 trim levels, Tesla says the Performance offers a staggering 2.9-second zero-to-60-mph time, which is 1.3 seconds faster than the Long Range All-Wheel Drive (LR AWD) trim and 2.9 seconds faster than the base Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) version.
2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance Exterior - Find Tesla charging stations near you
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance receives a few updates to its exterior, but spotting them might be tricky if you don't know what you are looking for. Tesla added new intake slits and a front splitter to the front bumper to help with handling and stability around corners.
New 20-inch wheels and updated Pirelli tires increase the Performance's grip and traction. A rear diffuser and a carbon fiber spoiler around the back help with aerodynamics and balance.
The car's silhouette and design remain mostly the same in the Performance as in the RWD and LR AWD Model 3s. The Performance retains its sleek LED headlights, updated taillights, and hidden door handles.
2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance Interior - Find the best Tesla Model 3 deals!
Most notable updates to the interior of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance include new front racing seats, which provide more support while going around corners at high speeds, and a new carbon fiber interior trim. The seats are heated, ventilated, and 12-way power-adjustable like those in the RWD and LR AWD.
The Performance maintains the same minimalistic layout as the other Model 3 trims. The steering wheel houses two scroll wheels and touch controls, which manage everything from voice control to indicators, windshield wipers, and Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system.
Inside, the same noise and comfort improvements as other trim levels ensure the cabin is nearly void of unwanted road noises.
2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance Specs - Find Tesla charging stations near you
A dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which supplies 510 horsepower, powers the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance. According to Tesla, this system can rocket the Performance from zero-to-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. With an estimated range of 296 miles, the Performance sacrifices range for enhanced speed.
Compare those specs to the LR AWD trim, which, according to Tesla, will go from zero-to-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and has an estimated range of 341 miles—1.3 seconds slower than the Performance, but with an additional 45 miles of range.
The Performance also has a tuned chassis, stiffer suspension, and larger brakes than other Model 3 trims. Tesla says the upgrades enhance the car's sporty feeling and allow for a better driving experience.
2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance Safety and Technology - Find the best Tesla Model 3 deals!
Like the LR AWD and RWD trims, the Performance has two touchscreen displays: a larger 15.4-inch unit up front and an 8-inch screen for rear-seat passengers between the two front seats. The display in the front uses Tesla's operating system, which shows drive mode, battery percentage, and speed, and it controls all other apps. The smaller display in the back allows passengers to access their climate controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and some entertainment features.
All 2024 Model 3s have the same standard safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, blind-spot warning, and lane-departure warning.
2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance Competitors - Find Tesla charging stations near you
While Tesla dominates the EV market, its recent focus on speed and performance—not to mention reduced pricing—will make it hard for other automakers to make inroads. But that won't stop them from trying. Hyundai has released the Ioniq 6 N and the Ioniq 5 N, which offer quick zero-to-60-mph speeds and comfortable interiors.
Tesla is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of April 24, 2024, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
Zac Johnson is a lifelong car enthusiast pursuing his dream of becoming an automotive journalist. He is a social media manager, contributor to JDPower.com, and founder of Best Daily Drivers.
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