Tesla Model 3

Tesla's ground-breaking electric saloon gets its most extensive update yet On sale February 2024 (est) Price from £44,000 (est)

- Lawrence Cheung

THE IMPACT THAT the Tesla Model 3 has had on the UK's electric vehicle (EV) market since sales began in 2019 can't be overstated, and after recent price drops it has redefined perceptions of EV value for money. Only around £3000 separates the entry-level Model 3 from the smaller Vauxhall Astra Electric, which has much less range and performance to offer.

While minor updates have kept it fresh over the years, the next chapter in the Model 3's life cycle has arrived with this facelift. Don't worry: those price reductions were no end-of-season sale just to shift old stock; Tesla promises only incremental price increases (around £1000-£2000) when the updated car arrives in the UK early next year.

So, what's new? Well, most obvious is the new styling. The headlights are sleeker and the separate foglights have been removed; these changes allow for a reshaped and slimmed-down bumper in a quest for better aerodynamics and improved efficiency. At the back, visual tweaks include C-shaped tail-lights and the replacement of the badge with 'Tesla' lettering. The reversing lights are now mounted low down on the bumper.