Approximately two years after its debut in Singapore, the Tesla Model 3 is back on our sunny shores - this time, with the upgraded Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range Dual-Motor variants. Both were up for customer orders just two weeks ago. As deliveries will start in late 2023, Singapore can expect the new cars to hit our roads by the end of the year.
The new all-electric Model 3 is designed to be better, safer, and quieter than before. At its unveiling event held at Jewel Changi Airport today, Tesla said the upgraded Model 3 embodied the world's safest car becoming even safer.
One of the enhanced safety features include the packing in of more airbags at the front, overhead, for the knees and on the sides to cushion impact during a crash or collision. Blind spot assist now also takes the form of a red light that comes on at the base of the A-pillar of the front passenger seat.
The Model 3 has an improved suspension system, having taken in customer feedback, tuned for better handling and performance on the road. The steering wheel also got an upgrade: The stalk is replaced by buttons on the wheel.
If there is one thing that Tesla consistently does well, it is its knack for user experience. The 360-degree acoustic glass roof may not be a new feature in the Model 3 but in this facelift, it has been double glazed. In fact, the double glazing extends to the car windows. The result is an even more tranquil cabin with enhanced heat insulation.
Another addition is the 8.0-inch rear screen that allows passengers in the backseat to access climate controls and curate in-car entertainment. The new Model 3 also comes with ventilated seats to boost comfort in the cabin for the driver and passengers.
On display from now until 4 November 2023 for the public to experience is the Long Range Dual-Motor variant in ultra red. While there is no difference from what we already know about the performance figures of both variants, it is worth highlighting that the dual-motor's powertrain is capable of sending 377kW (506bhp) and 660Nm of torque, variably to all four wheels. On the other hand, the variant's RWD sibling boasts a powertrain that pushes out 208kW (279bhp) and 420Nm of torque.
Both variants are powered by batteries that support rapid DC charging. The 78kWh battery found in the Long Range Dual-Motor Model 3 can be charged at up to 250kW, while the 60kWh battery in the RWD variant can be charged at up to 170kW.
On a single charge, both variants of the sedan offer impressive WLTP-rated ranges: 629km for the dual-motor, and 513km for the RWD.
Tesla car owners in Singapore can now get their vehicles charged when they drive to Johor Bahru, as Tesla enables cross-country charging. The company also revealed future plans to make this available in Thailand and other parts of Malaysia. Within Singapore, there are 11 Tesla Supercharging stations currently.
Customers who are interested in the upgraded Model 3 can place orders here. Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y is on display at Level 2 of Jewel Changi Airport until 5 November 2023 for customers to experience as well.
| Car Model | Price as of press time (excluding COE) |
| Tesla Model 3 Electric RWD 60 kWh (A) | $88,650 |
| Tesla Model 3 Electric Long Range AWD 78 kWh (A) | $114,953 |
