2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance: 0-60 in 2.9 seconds!

Summary

In this video, the creator reviews the refreshed Tesla Model 3 Performance, comparing it to the Model S Plaid. They highlight new features like a more aggressive front end, upgraded wheels and brakes, carbon fiber accents, and a sporty interior. The Model 3 Performance also boasts improved handling, faster acceleration, and new track mode settings for performance enthusiasts. While the Model S Plaid has depreciated significantly, the Model 3 Performance offers a high-performance, fun driving experience at a more affordable price, making it a strong contender in its category.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Tesla Model 3 Performance refresh (Highland) offers a mini Model S feel with significant upgrades and refinements.
• 😀 The front of the car features a larger splitter, sharper headlights, and a functional air slot, giving it a more aggressive look.
• 😀 New staggered 20-inch wheels with removable Aero caps, and upgraded red brakes are key visual cues for the Model 3 Performance.
• 😀 The car is powered by a new rear motor, providing 510 horsepower, 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds, and a top speed of 163 mph.
• 😀 The Model 3 Performance’s new rear motor delivers improved power distribution, offering better overall torque across the entire speed range.
• 😀 The car's handling has improved, thanks to new dampers, larger brakes, and reduced weight, making it more nimble than its predecessor.
• 😀 Track Mode allows customization for steering, regenerative braking, and stability, making the car more track-friendly.
• 😀 Inside, the Model 3 Performance features sportier seats with enhanced bolstering, providing more support during spirited driving.
• 😀 The interior retains the minimalist design of the Model 3 but adds refinements like carbon fiber accents and a sleeker glove box.
• 😀 Despite improvements, Tesla has reverted to capacitive touch buttons on the steering wheel, which is a downside compared to the previous physical buttons.
• 😀 With a price tag under $60,000, the Model 3 Performance offers great performance and value, positioning itself as a high-performance daily driver.

Q & A

What makes the Tesla Model 3 Performance different from the regular Model 3?

The Model 3 Performance not only offers faster speeds but also includes aesthetic and performance enhancements. It features upgraded brakes, a more aggressive design with a larger front splitter, unique wheels, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, and improved dampers for a sportier driving experience.

How does the Tesla Model 3 Performance compare to the Model S Plaid?

While the Model S Plaid focuses on extreme performance with a triple motor setup and higher-end features, the Model 3 Performance offers a more affordable performance experience. The Model 3 Performance is essentially a smaller, more compact version of the Model S Plaid with a dual-motor setup and a focus on a balance between everyday usability and high performance.

What are the key performance specifications of the Model 3 Performance?

The Model 3 Performance boasts 510 horsepower, can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 163 mph. It's a high-performance car with more responsive power delivery, especially due to the new rear drive unit.

What are the new features of the Model 3 Performance that enhance its driving experience?

Key improvements in the Model 3 Performance include a more powerful rear motor, upgraded brakes, improved handling with better dampers, and a track mode. The track mode allows users to customize various settings for steering, torque distribution, and regenerative braking.

How does the handling of the Model 3 Performance compare to its predecessor?

The handling of the Model 3 Performance is notably improved, thanks to upgraded dampers and new hardware. Despite being the same weight as the outgoing model, it feels nimbler and more responsive, offering better performance on twisty roads and tracks.

What changes have been made to the wheels and brakes on the Model 3 Performance?

The Model 3 Performance features staggered 20-inch wheels with a new design, featuring removable aero caps. The car also comes with upgraded brakes and red brake calipers, offering better stopping power, specifically designed to enhance the performance of the car.

What are the improvements in the interior of the Model 3 Performance?

Inside the Model 3 Performance, the seats have been upgraded for more support, with enhanced bolstering for a sportier feel. The car also includes aluminum pedals, carbon fiber trim on the dashboard, and improved seat ventilation. However, the capacitive touch buttons on the steering wheel are a step backward compared to the previous physical clicky buttons.

How does the Model 3 Performance's driving experience differ from other cars in its price range?

The Model 3 Performance stands out by offering sub-3 second 0-60 mph acceleration at a price point under $60,000. Its combination of peak power, responsive torque, and track-focused features make it an exceptional value compared to other cars in the same performance bracket.

What is the significance of the 'Insane Speed' badge on the Model 3 Performance?

The 'Insane Speed' badge on the Model 3 Performance highlights the car's high-performance capabilities, with acceleration and top speeds that rival many sports cars. It's a nod to the car's enhanced dual-motor performance without the inclusion of Tesla's 'Plaid' designation, which is reserved for the top-tier Model S and other triple-motor setups.

What is the Track Mode in the Model 3 Performance, and how does it work?

Track Mode is a feature exclusive to the Model 3 Performance, offering customizable settings for things like steering responsiveness, over/understeering, regenerative braking, and stability assist. It is designed for drivers who want to take their cars to the track, providing the ability to dial in precise driving dynamics for optimal performance in different conditions.