With a 0-100km/h sprint time that puts the average Porsche 911 in the shade, the Tesla Model 3 Performance isn’t slow… but it’s not as crazy fast as the bigger, more expensive Model S Plaid.
That could be set to change. Twitter user The Kilowatts has revealed the Tesla Parts Catalogue has a Plaid badge for the Model 3 in it, suggesting an even faster flagship is coming.
Combined with a new set of wheels in the same catalogue, the badge points to a new flagship for the Model 3 to sit above the Performance – a facelifted version of which hasn’t yet been revealed.
Tesla’s Parts Catalog confirms Tesla is working on a Performance version of the new Model 3, potentially PLAID!! pic.twitter.com/N7qxt0LUqM
— The Kilowatts 🚗⚡️ (@klwtts) October 19, 2023
Prior to the latest facelift, the fastest Model 3 hit 100km/h in 3.3 seconds. Although that’s far from slow, it’s not a patch on the Model S Plaid and its 2.1-second run to triple figures.
It’s not clear if Tesla will slot a tri-motor powertrain into the Model 3 Plaid, or whether it will extract more power from the current dual-motor setup.
The Model S Plaid has up to 761kW of power and 1424Nm of torque from its triple motor setup, and can be optioned with a Track Pack that combines all that power with stickier tyres, bigger brakes, and a track-optimised tune for the adaptive air suspension.
Like the broader Model S range, the Plaid isn’t available in Australia.
Tesla in May 2023 confirmed anyone waiting for a Model S or Model X would have their deposit refunded, and would be offered a $3000 credit towards an order on the smaller Model 3 or Model Y.
In the UK, the brand has taken a more creative solution.
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