2024 Tesla Model 3 preview: price, specs and release date

2024 Tesla Model 3: price and specs

New pricing for the Model 3 variants 

Since going on sale in Australia in 2019, Tesla has offered three variants of the Model 3. But with the recent announcement of the updated version, the EV specialist is only selling two of those three variants here: the entry-level Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), and the mid-grade Long Range.

Working out which model gets which features is tricky from the Tesla website, but we have been able to determine that all versions will get heated seats, ventilated front seats, powered front seats, and dual wireless phone chargers.

There are few equipment differences between RWD and Long Range, but a big one is the sound system. The RWD will get a nine-speaker sound system, whereas the Long Range gets 17 speakers, including two subwoofers.

Prices are up by $4500 and $1500 respectively, with the RWD selling from $67,406 drive away, and the Long Range from $77,826. That makes both versions eligible for the fringe benefits tax exemption as part of the government’s Electric Car Discount bill.

What has changed with the 2024 Tesla Model 3?

Think of this latest Tesla Model 3 as a mid-life update. The core of the car is unchanged from the 2023 version, from the doors and the underpinnings, to the panoramic glass roof.

For 2024, there’s more overt Tesla branding, with the steering wheel and boot replacing the T logo with “Tesla” spelled out in full.

New wheels, lights and bumpers add to the fresh look, as does the redesigned bonnet.

They also help improve the flow of one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars on the market. The coefficient of drag drops from 0.23 to 0.219, meaning less resistance at speed.

The new Tesla Model 3 will be arriving on Australian shores in 2024. Image: Supplied

Model 3 interior now more upmarket

Tesla has addressed criticism about the simplicity of its cabins by upgrading some of the finishes and materials in the 2024 Tesla Model 3. Plastics and dash trims look more upmarket, and the centre console has been redesigned for more storage space.

The addition of ambient lighting (with the choice of 200 colours) and ventilated front seats adds to the sense that the 2024 Tesla Model 3 has stepped up.

There’s also a major change with the steering wheel and its surrounds. There are no longer stalks for indicators or gear selection. Instead, there are indicator buttons on the steering wheel, and a 'Smart Shift' system designed to automatically detect whether you want to go forwards or backwards. This can be overridden via the 15.4-inch screen that is still the centrepiece of the cabin.

There’s also now a second touchscreen in the form of the 8-inch unit in the rear. It allows those in the back to adjust the air flow and seat heating, as well as other functions.

Sound changes to the Model 3 

The refreshed Tesla Model 3 should also be quieter. Tesla says it is using 360-degree acoustic glass, as well as more sound deadening to suppress unwanted sounds.

At the same time, in line with recent updates to Teslas sold in Australia, there’s now a pedestrian warning system that incorporates Boombox. It can use an underbonnet speaker to play songs or amplify a 'modulated version of your voice.'

Increased range in the new 2024 Tesla Model 3 

There are few details, but it appears the battery pack is unchanged. That means a circa-60kWh capacity on the entry-level Rear-Wheel Drive.

However, the revised aerodynamics have eked more range between charges, stepping up from 491km to 513km.

The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range's driving range is up from 602km to 629km.

Along with the Tesla Model Y, that still makes the Model 3 one of the most energy efficient EVs on the market.

No changes to performance for the 2024 Tesla Model 3

The latest Tesla Model 3 uses the same motors as previously, which translates to a claimed 0-100km/h time of 6.1 seconds for the RWD, and 4.4 seconds for the Long Range, the latter adding a front motor for all-wheel drive capability.

The main change is a slight reduction in the top speed, although it’s hardly an issue in Australia; as both can still get up to 201km/h.

Is the 2024 Tesla Model 3 better to drive? 

While details are thin, expect the flavour of the old Tesla Model 3 with a few minor improvements.

For instance, it appears the updated Tesla Model 3 for 2024 will be a similar drive to the outgoing model. However, there will be tweaks.

There are bigger suspension bushes, and the traction and stability control systems have been improved, with apparently smarter controls and swifter reaction times.

What are the drawbacks with the new Tesla Model 3?

The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range no longer gets separate front foglights, but Tesla is apparently incorporating a foglight function into the main light unit. That could be partly about reducing manufacturing costs, or cleaning up the front bumper to improve aerodynamics.

The ultrasonic parking sensors are also expected to disappear with this revised model. Tesla has been switching to what it terms 'Tesla Vision', which uses only the external cameras to measure distances to other objects. It’s designed to replace traditional parking sensors.

When can I get the 2024 Tesla Model 3 in Australia? 

First deliveries of the updated Model 3 are scheduled to arrive in Australia early in 2024.