The new Tesla Model 3 is here with better looks, longer range

Tesla is like that one friend who never fails to dominate the conversation at a party. This time, it's back in the limelight with its new and improved Model 3. The “refreshed” Model 3 promises greater range, better design, and more features. Tesla did manage to spring a surprise on all of us with the unveiling, but the bigger surprise is absolute lack of mentioning of the new model in the US - it seems it's not ready to cross the Atlantic just yet. But let's break it all down.

The Model 3 has some exterior enhancements that are more than just skin-deep. It now sports a chiseled front and rear, which not only makes it look sleeker but also improves aerodynamics. This aerodynamic efficiency helps to extend the vehicle's range. By the way, the car is now an inch longer and a tad bit lower than its predecessor. And there’s no question it looks way better, more mature, and less “froggy” - small and subtle changes have actually made a big difference.

According to Tesla’s numbers, the estimated range for the updated Model 3 is 421 miles for the long-range (LR) variant. That’s a good 11% to 12% jump from the current models. Still, these are estimates based on the European WLTP cycle, but not the actual test result. Americans should keep their expectations in check until we see the EPA figures, which will probably be closer to real-life performance.

The interior has received an upgrade, now featuring a “lounge-like” atmosphere (because who doesn't want to feel like they're in a lounge while stuck in traffic?). New ambient lighting surrounds the entire cabin with choice of colors and the new dashboard blends into the doors - a really nice wrap-around design. The infotainment system has more screen real estate, and there’s even a new 8-inch rear display for the backseat drivers - er, passengers.

One change is already drawing plenty of unhappy responses from the public - the steering wheel. At a first glance it looks smaller and little bit beefier with a flat bottom - all good so far. But the big change is the lack of indicator stalks. Just like in the Model S, the new Model 3 features touch-sensitive indicator switches on the left side of the steering wheel - some people like it, but it seems majority favors the good old mechanical solution.

Music lovers will appreciate the new audio system. The LR variant boasts 17 speakers, two subwoofers, and two amplifiers. It's like attending a concert right in your car, minus the screaming fans and overpriced merchandise. Tesla has also thrown in some other extras like wireless charging for two phones and improved microphones for those ever-so-important Zoom calls on the go.

Let's not overlook the changes hiding under the sleek new body. The updated Model 3 has a revised front suspension geometry and a stronger side impact structure, new suspension bushing is in place, new Hankook tires aim to provide more grip and less noise and now all the glass is made up of two sheets laminated with acoustic film. All these changes are aimed at making your drive safer and more comfortable. Even the rear seats, although still looking the same as in the older model, have been tweaked for more comfort. Oh, and the front seats are now ventilated as well.

The refreshed Model 3 production is already underway at Tesla’s Gigafactory Shanghai, the company's largest producer of electric vehicles. It will commence local and SEA shipments towards the end of this month. Deliveries in Europe and the Middle East are expected to commence by late October. And we are still waiting for the official unveiling of the Cybertruck - let’s just say its delivery event is "imminent," which in Tesla time could mean anything from next month to when we colonize Mars.

Tesla has managed to surprise us all and bring in a few notable improvements with the new Model 3, but let's remember, the devil is in the details. The price, we are being told, will remain the same which makes the new Model 3 an even better value with all the improvements.

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