The Tesla Model 3 Performance has become a hot topic lately, and it’s no surprise given the swirling political discourse surrounding its CEO. While opinions about him may vary widely, one thing is clear: Tesla continues to dominate the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, and the latest Model 3 Performance offers a compelling blend of speed, style, and technology that leaves competitors scrambling to catch up.
Having had the chance to drive numerous electric vehicles, I can confidently say that the updated Tesla Model 3 Performance is among my top picks. The latest iteration, known as the “Highland” model, steps things up with fresh design elements, upgraded seating, and an overall more refined interior. The enhanced suspension system also contributes to a driving experience that feels not only sporty but distinctly elevated for its price point.
Let’s talk details:
Starting with a base price of €58,400 in Europe and $54,990 in the U.S., this car comes with a robust 79 kWh battery that grants it an impressive range of around 328 miles on a single charge (according to the WLTP standard). When it’s time to refuel, a quick charge can take you from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes, thanks to its 250 kW CCS charging capability. It’s powered by a dual-motor setup that pumps out 460 horsepower and a jaw-dropping 533 lb-ft of torque, launching from 0-62 mph in a brisk 3.1 seconds. In comparison, the U.S. spec can achieve an even quicker sprint at 2.9 seconds, making it a powerhouse in its class and leaving fast gas cars surprisingly in the dust.
When I took the Euro-spec Model 3 Performance for a spin, I was greeted by a few less horses than its American counterpart, but honestly, it was still exhilarating. The acceleration feels overwhelming—like you’re being shot from a cannon. This is the kinda power that can embarrass many a supercar. The car’s lightweight design adds to the thrill; weighing in at 4,080 pounds, it feels nimble and responsive, especially when you consider the bulky competition out there.
Before jumping behind the wheel of the Tesla, I’d spent time with a BMW M4 Competition, and to my astonishment, the Tesla felt just as swift, if not swifter. Both on the takeoff and the rolling start, the Tesla delivered a performance that rivaled my previous ride—without the growl of a traditional engine. Initially, I found the silence somewhat disconcerting, but it’s refreshing in its own right. There’s something uniquely appealing about gliding forward with nothing but the whoosh of wind at your ears.
One of the most engaging aspects of the Model 3 Performance is its cornering prowess. I usually worry about back-end slides in rear-biased electric cars due to their weight and torque. But with Track Mode, Tesla allows you to tweak the car’s handling. I was able to coax a little oversteer without feeling like I was in an adrenaline-fueled video game, which gave me a rush of confidence. Driving through sharp turns felt precise rather than precarious, making quick maneuvers a breeze. In fact, the steering in this model is a standout feature for me; it feels intuitive and direct, as though it’s guiding you rather than demanding constant correction.
The seating arrangement plays a role in this experience too. With a sporty, lower position and fantastic visibility, it felt like I was behind the wheel of a true sports car. Even in the regular Model 3 variants, this forward-driving position enhances the overall sporty feel, but the Performance model kicks it up a notch with sport seats designed to hold you snug while you tackle tight corners.
Moreover, Tesla has reworked the suspension system in the Model 3 Performance. It’s been fitted with stiffer adaptive dampers that adjust according to your driving style or road conditions—giving you the option of a firm or softer ride. However, opting for that sporty firmness can lead to a bouncier experience over rough roads, which was pretty noticeable compared to its regular counterparts. Driving on the same roads with both models highlighted the difference, with the Performance feeling robust but at times less polished than rivals like the BMW M4.
While the intention behind the sport seats in the Performance is to keep you securely fitted during hard cornering, I found them less comfortable than the regular model’s seats. But that’s part of the trade-off for getting a car that can perform at such an exhilarating level. It’s about finding that balance, and in the Tesla Model 3 Performance, it feels like a thrilling drive that could redefine how we think about electric vehicles.
So if you’re on the fence about making the switch to electric or are contemplating an upgrade, the Tesla Model 3 Performance makes a strong case. It blends performance, tech, and a surprisingly fun driving experience, and trust me, once you get behind its wheel, you’ll understand exactly why people are buzzing about it.The driving experience of modern electric vehicles (EVs) continues to evolve, but there’s a personal touch that makes this journey relatable. As a six-footer behind the wheel of the Tesla Model 3 Performance, it’s easy to feel a bit like your legs are hanging off a cliff—especially with a seat that lacks extendable thigh support. Though the car excels in handling sharp corners and embraces driver engagement, there’s always room for improvement. For someone of my stature, having a seat that accommodates longer legs is crucial. When I slipped into the BMW M4, I immediately felt the difference. While the M4 seat was less aggressive, it was much more comfortable. It’s not just about performance; it’s also about how each model can accommodate different body types and preferences.
When it comes to aesthetics, the Model 3 has come a long way. Tesla listened to feedback on the pre-refresh version that didn’t quite stand out among its less sporty counterparts. With the updated Performance model, they’ve added an aggressive front bumper complete with smart active side vents, which balance style and aerodynamic efficiency at high speeds. A noticeable addition is the larger splitter that not only enhances its aggressive look but also does wonders for performance by reducing lift. Just visualizing this makes you appreciate the engineering that goes into these changes.
Take a look at the new “Warp” 20-inch staggered wheels as well; they might not have the eye-catching allure of the previous generation’s Überturbine wheels, yet their design focuses on maximizing aerodynamics. It’s a trade-off, but the efficiency can be essential for performance driving. And in the rear, the refreshed diffuser and a subtle carbon fiber spoiler only add to the aggressive charm of the car. Even though my test model sported 19-inch wheels without classy center caps, the overall look remained strikingly impressive.
However, let’s address the rather bitter pill when we compare numbers: the electric range. When stacked up against the Long Range model, the Performance screams speed but whispers hesitation in the range department. In Europe, the range dips from an impressive 390 miles (629 km) to 328 miles (528 km) for the Performance version. If you’re in the U.S., the numbers differ slightly as well—346 miles drops to 298 miles. As I took the Model 3 Performance out for a spin in particularly cold temperatures, I was initially doubtful. But equipped with a nearly full charge, I managed to squeeze out 285 miles (458 km) of range. Not too shabby for a frigid day!
The week I had the car, winter reared its frigid head, and while I was prepared to face range anxiety, it remained manageable. Even with limited Supercharger stations in Bucharest, I found the charging process smooth—albeit the station was bustling during peak hours. Preconditioning the battery before I arrived allowed for a quicker charge, but the maximum I experienced was 88 kilowatts, likely constrained by other vehicles demanding power from the busy station.
Ultimately, the Tesla Model 3 Performance shines brightly in the realm of performance EVs. Starting at €57,490 in Europe and $54,990 in the U.S. (before tax credits), it delivers exceptional value for those seeking thrilling performance in a blend of electric efficiency. While other contenders like the BMW Neue Klasse i3 and an upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 6 N are on the horizon, currently, the Tesla raises the bar high for what a performance electric vehicle can offer.
It’s about the driving experience—understanding how the car fits you and how every detail contributes to that exhilarating ride. Whether you’re a performance enthusiast or simply seeking an alternative to traditional combustion engines, the Model 3 Performance feels like a forward leap into the future of driving that truly resonates with many of us. Like you, I want a car that doesn’t just drive well but understands where I’m coming from.
Image Source: Tudor Alexandru / Shutterstock
