TESLA Model 3 Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Despite being just a facelifted version of the 2017 Tesla Model 3, the 2024 model year version of this electric vehicle came with essential updates and upgrades.

The Model 3 was one of the best cars in its class. Not only that it could outrun most of its competitors in terms of performance, but it was also among the most affordable. In addition, it provided several features that were not available on any other car brand. For the 2024 model year, which was revealed in September 2023, Tesla claimed that it changed or improved more than 50 percent of the vehicle. It was a bold statement for a vehicle that looked mostly the same. And yet, there were significant upgrades for it.

Like any other facelift or mid-life cycle update, the car had to show a distinct look. While the profile remained the same since Tesla built the 2024 Model 3 on the same platform and structure, there were other exterior details that differentiate the new model from its older sibling. At the front, the American brand reshaped the headlights’ design. They become slimmer and more stylish. In addition, the automaker added more prominent LED daytime running lights fitted inside the headlights. Since the new headlights required a reshaped bumper, the automaker improved that as well. As a result, it sported a slimmer and wider lower air intake while it deleted the fog lamps. The automaker considered them futile. Tesla added new wheels in its offer with sizes up to 19 inches and a multi-spoke design. Strangely, though, at the rear, the taillights were mounted on the tailgate. On the lower bumper, the automaker added red fog lamps. These were needed and enforced by law in most parts of the world.

Inside, the dashboard looked similar to the one on the non-facelifted version, and yet it was new. The design idea was similar, with a simple flat area, which on the new model was adorned by an LED strip that ran at the windshield’s base, between the A-pillars. There was also a new steering wheel design with integrated buttons for turn signals and cruise control. On the 2024 Model 3, Tesla deleted all the column-mounted stalks. It moved even the windshield wipers on the redesigned steering wheel. The automaker installed a new center console between the front seats that housed a storage compartment and a pair of cup holders. But changes didn’t stop there, and the automaker also upgraded the touchscreen from the center stack, which remained at the same size but offered a better image quality. There was also another big improvement for the rear-seated passengers, which got a fresh color touchscreen that allowed the rear-seated passengers to control vents and the stereo.

Even though the facelifted version got the same engines and batteries, it could reach up to 423 miles (678 km). The base model, on the other hand, allowed the car to travel 346 miles (554 km) on a single charge.

After a good start on the market, Tesla turned its face toward the mass-market and offered a more affordable vehicle: Model 3. It wasn't that fast as its siblings, but it shook the motoring world.

A daily-driver car must be affordable and energy-efficient. It doesn't have to hit the 62 mph (100 kph) barrier in less than 5 seconds, but it has to offer enough comfort and an affordable price. That's why the Model 3 was so desirable. Moreover, it was still quick enough to embarrass a lot of sports-cars.

Designed as a family sedan, the 3 offered four doors and an aerodynamic profile. The designers looked like they didn't know how to start the front end and left a flat area where other cars had the grille. There was an actual grille for the AC compressor and battery coolers, but it was on the apron. Overall, the Model 3 looked more like a shrunk Model S than a new car, but with an uglier nose.

Inside, Tesla installed five real seats with enough room for five occupants. On the center stack, it installed a landscape mode touch-screen. Depending on the options, it was fitted with an autopilot system that allowed a completely autonomous driving system without the driver's need to control the steering wheels or the pedals.

The Model 3 was offered with three power options and four battery packs, offering something for every need. The performances were not bad, and the range could reach 310 miles (500 km).