Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric mid-size sedan under the Tesla brand. Since its debut in 2017, it has become one of the iconic models in the global electric vehicle (EV) market courtesy of its minimalist tech aesthetic, efficient EV powertrain, and leading intelligent driving ecosystem. Built at Tesla's Gigafactory Shanghai, the model is sold in the Chinese market. As of June 2026, the domestic 2026 Model 3 lineup comprises four variants: Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range All-Wheel Drive, and Performance All-Wheel Drive, with official retail prices ranging from RM235,500 to RM339,500. Additionally, a "Standard Rear-Wheel Drive" (budget variant) priced between an estimated RM180,000 and RM200,000 has been rolled out across several overseas markets and listed in China's tax exemption catalogue. Key rivals to the Model 3 include the BYD Han EV, Zeekr 007, and Xiaomi SU7.

Design Language

The Model 3 carries forward Tesla's signature minimalist design philosophy. Up front, a closed-off grille is paired with sharp split LED headlamps, which, together with a low-slung stance, exude a strong high-tech and sporty vibe. The side profile features sleek, flowing lines, while the fastback silhouette, flush door handles, and frameless doors deliver a clean and sharp look. The vehicle boasts a drag coefficient as low as 0.21 Cd to 0.23 Cd, directly benefiting its real-world range. In terms of dimensions, it measures 4,720 mm (4,694 mm for select variants) in length, 1,848 mm in width, and 1,442 mm (1,422 mm for select variants) in height, with a 2,875 mm wheelbase.

Inside, the Model 3 retains its "clusterless" minimalist cockpit, housing all driving information and vehicle controls within a 15.4-inch floating central touchscreen. The cabin features a wraparound layout, generously lined with soft-touch materials for an elevated tactile feel and premium ambience. The 2026 model receives subtle refinements, adding ventilated and heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel as standard across the range. A new 8-inch rear touchscreen display allows rear passengers to easily adjust climate settings, seat heating, and entertainment functions. With acoustic laminated glass fitted all around and 256-colour ambient lighting, cabin refinement and NVH levels are noticeably improved over its predecessor.

Powertrain & Performance

Built on Tesla's dedicated EV architecture, the Model 3 comes in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) setups. The Rear-Wheel Drive variant is powered by a single rear permanent magnet synchronous motor rated at 194 kW (264 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, completing the 0-100 km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds. The Long Range RWD variant also runs a single-motor rear-drive setup, shaving the 0-100 km/h acceleration time down to 5.2 seconds. The Long Range All-Wheel Drive variant gets a dual-motor AWD system delivering a combined 331 kW (450 PS) and 559 Nm, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Meanwhile, the flagship Performance All-Wheel Drive churns out 343 kW (460 PS) and 723 Nm, achieving the century sprint in a blistering 3.1 seconds with a top speed of 261 km/h.

On the battery front, the standard RWD variant packs a 62.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, offering a CLTC-rated range of 634 km; the Long Range RWD ups the range to 830 km; the Long Range AWD is rated at 753 km; while the Performance variant delivers 647 km. When it comes to charging, the car supports up to 250 kW DC fast charging, recouping approximately 250 km of range in 15 minutes. Backed by Tesla's global network of over 75,000 Superchargers, long-distance touring remains exceptionally convenient.

Chassis & Handling

Underneath, the Model 3 rides on a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link independent suspension setup. The chassis tuning retains Tesla's hallmark sporting character—short suspension travel, rapid damping response, minimal body roll in corners, and pinpoint steering accuracy. The 2026 model benefits from re-engineered shock absorbers, yielding a marked improvement in ride quality compared to the older model; while preserving sharp dynamic handling, it tackles speed bumps and road irregularities far more cleanly. However, the firmer, sport-focused damping means low-speed road chatter is not entirely filtered out, presenting a calculated compromise in ride comfort.

Cabin & Features

The Model 3's cabin revolves around the 15.4-inch central touchscreen as the primary user interface, through which virtually all vehicle controls are accessed. The infotainment system supports a comprehensive suite of entertainment features, including online music streaming, video playback, and in-car gaming. Audio-wise, it is fitted with a proprietary sound system featuring 9 to 15 speakers depending on the variant. In terms of practicality, the dual front and rear boot layout offers generous cargo room, with the rear boot measuring 682 litres and expandable via folding rear seats. An efficient heat pump air conditioning system comes standard, helping mitigate energy draw during colder weather.

Safety & Intelligent Driving

For passive safety, the Model 3 is engineered with a high-tensile body structure capable of withstanding multiple times the car's own weight, while the floor-mounted reinforced battery pack substantially lowers the centre of gravity and rollover risk. On the active safety front, standard equipment includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and other driver aids. In terms of intelligent driving tech, the 2026 Model 3 comes standard with Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Centring Assist across the board. Notably, since January 2026, Tesla has discontinued basic Autopilot as standard equipment on the new Model 3; features like autosteer lane centring now require a monthly subscription to "Full Self-Driving (Supervised)" (FSD) at USD 99 per month. FSD (Supervised) handles route navigation, steering, lane changes, and automated parking, though active driver supervision remains mandatory.

Market Performance & Evaluation

The Tesla Model 3 stands as one of the world's best-selling electric vehicles. In the first quarter of 2026, Tesla delivered 365,600 vehicles globally, with the Model 3 and Model Y together accounting for 351,000 units. In 2025, Tesla recorded total global deliveries of 1,636,100 units. Nevertheless, the Model 3 has faced stiff headwinds in the Chinese domestic market, registering just 1,640 units in January 2026; before staging a strong rebound by May with a 39% month-on-month surge. To spur demand, Tesla has introduced enticing sales promotions, including a 5-year 0% interest financing scheme (saving around RM12,000 in interest), a complimentary home wallbox charger and installation package (worth roughly RM4,000), and Premium Connectivity services (worth RM1,200).

The core strengths of the Model 3 lie in its highly efficient electric drive systems, impressive real-world range accuracy, extensive Supercharger network, razor-sharp handling, and solid resale values. Conversely, its drawbacks are equally clear: the ultra-minimalist cabin lacks traditional luxury flair, rear legroom is somewhat snug, the firm suspension setup compromises outright ride comfort, and high-level FSD features have yet to be fully deployed in China. All told, anchored by Tesla's "tech democratisation" ethos and continual product upgrades, the Model 3 remains a formidable contender in the RM200,000 to RM350,000 EV sedan segment.