Tesla has made an unexpected move by unveiling a more affordable version of its Model 3 sedan, designed to deliver a balance between cost efficiency and the brand’s signature modern look. The new “Model 3 Standard” aims to make owning a Tesla more accessible without sacrificing the company’s core design philosophy and driving experience.
According to Motor1, the Model 3 Standard comes with a single motor setup, offering a range of 321 miles (517 km) and 0–100 km/h acceleration in just 5.8 seconds. With a total cost of $38,630 including fees, it is roughly $5,500 cheaper than the Model 3 Premium Rear-Wheel Drive. Despite its lower price, the car retains the clean and minimal Tesla aesthetic, though it drops some luxury features to keep costs down.
Tesla has removed amenities like ambient interior lighting, ventilated seats, and powered mirrors or steering adjustments from the Standard model. It will be available in only three colors — white, black, and gray — and the cabin materials have been simplified to fabric upholstery for a more practical and minimal interior feel.
From a performance perspective, the Model 3 Standard charges up to 170 miles in 15 minutes — slightly less than its Premium counterpart — and does not include the Autosteer function. However, buyers can still add Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) package for an additional $8,000.
Currently, the Model 3 Standard stands as Tesla’s most affordable car on the market, competing with electric rivals such as the Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Hyundai Ioniq 6. Tesla confirmed that deliveries will begin in December 2025 or January 2026, positioning the new Model 3 as an accessible entry point into the Tesla ecosystem for a wider range of drivers.
