The Tesla Model 3 Highland, a significantly updated version of Tesla’s popular electric sedan, represents the company’s ongoing commitment to refining its core product. Introduced in April 2024, this facelifted Model 3 aims to improve upon the original’s already compelling combination of performance, range, and technology. Positioned in the competitive compact executive car segment, the Model 3 Highland seeks to attract buyers looking for a premium, all-electric vehicle with a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge features. The “Highland” designation refers to an internal codename for the refresh, and signifies substantial changes to the vehicle’s exterior, interior, and technology.
Tesla Model 3 (Highland) Performance: A Detailed Overview
The Performance variant of the Model 3 Highland is the top-tier offering, prioritizing exhilarating acceleration and dynamic handling. It distinguishes itself through a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain, delivering a combined output of 460 horsepower and 723 Nm (533.26 lb.-ft.) of torque. This potent combination allows for a remarkable 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 2.9 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds, making it one of the quickest vehicles in its class. The vehicle boasts a top speed of 162.8 mph (262 km/h).
Engine & Performance
The Model 3 Highland Performance utilizes a dual-motor setup. The front axle is driven by an asynchronous motor producing 215 Hp, while the rear axle features a synchronous motor generating 412 Hp. This configuration allows for precise torque vectoring, enhancing both traction and handling characteristics. Power is delivered through a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of electric vehicles. The 79 kWh lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt oxide (Li-NMC) battery pack, weighing 1005.31 lbs (456 kg) and positioned beneath the floor, provides a usable capacity of 79 kWh. This translates to a WLTP-rated all-electric range of 328.08 miles (528 km). Energy consumption is rated at 16.7 kWh per 100 km (26.88 kWh per 100 miles), equating to 125 MPGe and a range of 3.7 miles per kWh.
Design & Features
The Model 3 Highland maintains the sleek, fastback sedan profile of its predecessor but incorporates significant design revisions. The front fascia has been redesigned with new headlights and a revised bumper, improving aerodynamics and visual appeal. The rear end also receives updates, including new taillights and a redesigned trunk lid. Inside, the Highland features a minimalist cabin dominated by a large central touchscreen display. The interior materials have been upgraded, enhancing the overall sense of quality and refinement. The vehicle comfortably seats five passengers and offers 20.98 cu. ft. (594 l) of trunk space. Safety features are comprehensive, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) – details of which are not fully specified in the provided data. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tesla |
| Model | Model 3 |
| Generation | Model 3 (Highland, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | Performance 79 kWh (460 Hp) Dual Motor AWD |
| Start of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan, Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 2.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162.8 mph (262 km/h) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 248.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 390.6 Nm/tonne |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 79 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery weight | 1005.31 lbs (456 kg) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 328.08 mi (528 km) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 16.7 kWh/100 km (26.88 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 125 |
| km/kWh | 6 |
| mi/kWh | 3.7 |
| Electric motor 1 Power | 412 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 Model/Code | 4D2 |
| Electric motor 1 Location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 Type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 Power | 215 Hp |
| Electric motor 2 Model/Code | 3D3 |
| Electric motor 2 Location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 Type | Asynchronous |
| System power | 460 Hp |
| System torque | 533.26 lb.-ft. (723 Nm) |
| Kerb Weight | 4080.76 lbs (1851 kg) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 20.98 cu. ft. (594 l) |
| Length | 185.83 in. (4720 mm) |
| Width | 72.83 in. (1850 mm) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 76.1 in. (1933 mm) |
| Width including mirrors | 82.24 in. (2089 mm) |
| Height | 56.34 in. (1431 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 113.19 in. (2875 mm) |
| Front track | 62.36 in. (1584 mm) |
| Rear (Back) track | 61.81 in. (1570 mm) |
| Front overhang | 34.17 in. (868 mm) |
| Rear overhang | 38.46 in. (977 mm) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 5.04 in. (128 mm) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 38.39 ft. (11.7 m) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
The Tesla Model 3 Highland Performance represents a significant evolution of an already successful electric vehicle. Its combination of blistering performance, long range, and advanced technology positions it as a compelling option for buyers seeking a premium and sustainable driving experience. The updates introduced with the Highland refresh further solidify the Model 3’s position as a leader in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
