Introducing the New Model 3 Performance
The Tesla Team, 23. april 2024
Six years after the first Model 3 Performance deliveries, we are launching the new Model 3 Performance: a highly differentiated performance trim that leverages Tesla’s latest manufacturing and engineering capabilities to create what we consider to be a perfect, high-performance daily driver.
Building on the quality and platform improvements of the latest Model 3, the new Model 3 Performance delivers our most driver-focused experience, yet.
Performance-Tuned Chassis
The new Model 3 Performance leverages the latest Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) and comfort improvements of the new Model 3, plus bespoke chassis hardware that deliver performance and stiffness improvement while reducing mass, including adaptive dampers with hollow damper piston rods, multi-sectioned stabilizer bar, ultra-high strength steel springs, and stiffer suspension top mounts.
With these updates, we’ve built a more capable, performance-oriented chassis that maximizes the effectiveness of the new technologies found under the skin.
Our Most Powerful Model 3 Yet
Our latest generation performance drive unit – Performance 4DU – unlocks more torque, power and better efficiency. Compared to the previous Model 3 Performance drive unit, the Performance 4DU can deliver up to +22% continuous power, +32% peak power, and +16% peak torque delivery. Behind the wheel, drivers will sense more immediate and sustained acceleration out of corners. That’s the beauty of more torque!
These performance improvements have been achieved without sacrificing efficiency. In fact, we are seeing about 2% reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous generation Model 3 Performance.
This extra performance is transferred to the road via forged and staggered 20” wheels with Tesla-specific Pirelli P ZERO 4 performance tires. This staggered wheel fitment has several knock-on effects, including:
- Performance: this setup is optimized for the higher torque output of the 4DU; the larger contact patch allows for better traction out of corners while limiting traction control interventions.
- Comfort: with a stronger rear tire, we were able to increase overall roll stiffness while reducing head-toss and improving overall comfort.
- Range: Our new Pirelli P ZERO 4 tires have lower rolling resistance and increase range.
The unparalleled responsiveness of our electric motors allows us to regulate front and rear motor torque output with millisecond precision; these adjustments are controlled by Tesla’s in-house Vehicle Dynamics Controller (VDC) and happens hundreds of times per second. With the new Model 3 Performance, the powertrain torque split is more rear-biased thanks to the Performance 4DU and maximizes traction from the larger rear tire in corner exit. The result is a driving experience that launches the car out of corners with more immediacy.
For more braking performance, our track-ready brake pads now come standard on Model 3 Performance*, delivering more immediate deceleration and higher thermal limits and endurance.
All-New Adaptive Damping
A first for Model 3, and unique to the new Model 3 Performance, our new Adaptive Damping system adjusts to driver and road inputs in real time to optimize ride and handling, while also improving ride comfort.
Much like our powertrain, our adaptive suspension is controlled via Tesla’s in-house software, and is therefore a fully integrated chassis sub-system. This allows significant product adaptability in the future via OTA software updates.
Ride and handling characteristics are now controlled via preset modes:
- Standard: relaxed/calm character offering significant comfort and absorption improvement but still well controlled and engaging to drive in all conditions.
- Sport: elevates damping control for faster settling times to increase connection with the road during focused driving and improves steering response but still adapts to rougher roads.
- Track: body control and response are maximized with reduced adaptation to provide high and consistent performance on closed circuits (automatically selected in Track Mode).
Track Mode V3
With the addition of Adaptive Damping, Track Mode V3 now integrates motor controls, suspension controls, powertrain cooling, and Tesla’s Vehicle Dynamics Controller (VDC) under a single, unified system.
All-new controls and calibration within the powertrain and adaptive damping results in a more predictable experience that more accurately honors driver requests, and stability controls have been revised to allow drivers to explore the performance envelope in various track environments.
We have also implemented a top-to-bottom re-calibration of handling balance, stability assist, regen braking and ABS tuning controls to deliver a more consistent and predictable driving experience across different track conditions.
Track Mode V3 UI has also been revised to give you more vehicle data and control, right at your fingertips.
Functional, Performance-Focused Design
New Model 3 Performance has significant design differentiation compared to base vehicles, including front and rear fascias, spoiler, front splitter, and rear diffuser. These new design elements are not just aesthetic – they provide significant aerodynamic performance and better end-to-end air flow.
This focus spans every surface to create aerodynamic harmony at the component level (one surface to the next) and as a complete system (entire vehicle). Compared to the previous generation Model 3 Performance, the interaction of these design elements generates several major benefits, including up to -5% reduced drag, -36% lift reduction, and 55% improvement in front-to-rear lift balance.
Seats & Interior
Inside, Model 3 Performance is now equipped with new Sport seats that feature enhanced bolstering and a deeper, more engaging seating position. The new seating geometry and construction provide more lateral support during cornering and dynamic driving while remaining accessible and comfortable for daily driving; 12-way power plus heating and ventilation ensures customers don’t lose any functionality or comfort compared to RWD or LR AWD trims.
Model 3 Performance also benefits from the same improved NVH and cabin comfort as the new Model 3 RWD and LR AWD trims, including end-to-end NVH treatment for better noise isolation, 360˚ Acoustic Glass, and improved body baffles and sealing, to name a few.