Tesla adds $1,000 to the price of Model 3 Performance, makes Black and White interior standard

The updated Tesla Model 3 Performance was only unveiled last month its 510 horsepower and it's already gone through a bunch of price adjustments.

Initially launched for $52,990 in the US, undercutting the lower-spec Long Range model after tax credits, the Model 3 Performance quickly garnered positive reviews and significant attention. Tesla, perhaps encouraged by the car's reception, has twice raised the price since, bringing it to $54,490. This is just $10 shy of the $55,000 limit for the full $7,500 US federal EV tax credit.

Tesla slightly offset these price hikes by lowering the cost of some options. Initially, the "Black and White" interior was a $1,000 upgrade, but it's now included in the base price. Conversely, the standard black interior now costs an additional $1,000. These adjustments create a confusing pricing landscape for consumers, who might struggle to determine the best value proposition.

Despite the price increases, the Model 3 Performance, with a post-tax-credit price of $47,490, remains slightly cheaper than the Long Range model, which costs $47,740 after tax credits. This difference might be negligible for some buyers, but it could be a deciding factor for those seeking the best deal.

However, for those considering leasing, the landscape shifts dramatically. The lease rates for the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range AWD models, at $299/month and $439/month, respectively, are significantly lower than the Performance AWD model's $616/month. This considerable difference may deter some potential lessees from opting for the Performance model.

Tesla has also tinkered with the pricing of other Model 3 options. The "Black and White" interior, previously a $1,500 upgrade for the RWD and Long Range models, now costs $2,000. This adjustment further complicates the pricing structure, potentially leading to consumer confusion.

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