TESLA MODEL 3 Performance Review

Editor: Mark K | Cars&TechSG

Unleashing the electrifying speed and tech of the Tesla Model 3 Performance! ⚡🚗

Unveiling The Ride

First looks upon viewing the car from far, one thing excites me. That's the unique badge at the rear of the car, the "PERFORMANCE" badge. This isn't just any car; it's a machine built for thrill-seekers. A surge of excitement rushes through me as I anticipate the exhilarating experience that awaits behind the wheel of this sleek and aggressive ride.

Opening the door and settling into the driver's seat, I'm immediately greeted by a premium, minimalist interior—an unmistakable signature of Tesla's design philosophy. Every surface I touch exudes sophistication, while the cabin's hushed environment enhances the feeling of high-tech refinement. It's a space that feels both futuristic and inviting.

Unable to locate the gear selector or signal stalk? Well, that's because they are all integrated! Tesla has reimagined the driving interface. The gear selection is now integrated into the touchscreen, while turn signals are operated via push buttons on the left side of the steering wheel. Coming from a conventional ride with stalks on the steering, you do need some time to get used to it, as the saying goes, practice makes perfect! Although many would prefer the traditional signalling stalks?

The Tesla Model 3 Performance packs a 15-inch HD infotainment touchscreen, serving as the nerve center for navigation, media, and vehicle controls. With snappy responsiveness and sleek UI, it offers real-time maps, Autopilot visuals, and Track Mode tweaks. Stream Spotify, binge Netflix, or game with the steering wheel. Be entertained while waiting for your car to juice up! Plus, OTA updates keep it fresh with new features. A tech-loaded cockpit for the ultimate electrified thrill!

The interior seats offer a blend of sleek design, comfort, and advanced functionality. The front seats are crafted with premium materials, offering a sporty yet comfortable feel. They feature a minimalist design with high-quality synthetic leather upholstery, which is both durable and easy to maintain. The seats are well-contoured, providing good support for both the lower back and thighs, making them comfortable even for longer journeys. However, you might have to exercise cautions if your seats were to be of the lighter white tone. If there were massaging functions and better shouldering support, it would have added another tick to the list.

The Tesla Model 3 Performance offers impressive boot storage, combining practicality with performance. The rear trunk is deep and spacious, offering whopping 682 liters of cargo capacity.

On-Road Sensations

Driving the Tesla Model 3 Performance is nothing short of exhilarating. There are 3 driving modes available with interesting names, namely the Chill, Standard and Insane! Witha blistering 0-100 km/h time of just 3.1 seconds, acceleration is a pure rush particularly on the insane mode—perfect for quick merges and effortless overtakes. Brutal acceleration, instant torque, and a neck-snapping launch—pure electric insanity. The car's low center of gravity and razor-sharp steering make it incredibly agile, delivering exceptional handling whether you're navigating tight city streets or cruising along winding roads. Cornering stability? It's definitely a tick! 

While the ride is sportily firm, it handles imperfections with grace, offering a serene, quiet cabin on highways. Tesla's Autopilot system makes tackling traffic a breeze, though you'll still need to stay engaged. The regenerative braking system smooths out stop-and-go driving, cutting down on brake use and enhancing efficiency.

Thanks to its compact size and smart parking features, the Model 3 is a breeze to maneuver and park. With impressive efficiency and access to the ever-expanding Supercharger network, it's perfectly suited for urban driving. Overall, the Model 3 Performance blends heart-pumping performance with everyday practicality, making it a perfect match for our vibrant roads.

Conclusion

If you're seeking a ride that combines heart-pounding performance with cutting-edge technology and everyday practicality, the Tesla Model 3 Performance is hard to beat. Its jaw-dropping acceleration, agile handling, and smooth driving experience on Singapore's roads make it a truly exhilarating machine. Inside, the sleek, minimalist design and premium materials ensure a stylish, comfortable ride, though the lack of massaging seats or more aggressive shoulder support might leave some desiring a bit more luxury.

The tech-packed 15-inch touchscreen and Autopilot features add a futuristic touch, while the regenerative braking system and efficient energy use make it perfect for city driving. If you enjoy high-tech gadgets and seamless integration, plus the thrill of fast acceleration, the Model 3 Performance offers an unbeatable combination. However, if you prioritize ultra-luxury comforts like premium seat adjustments or extra rear-seat space, it may not be the ideal choice.

In short, if you're after a dynamic, fun-to-drive electric car that delivers on performance, innovation, and efficiency—while still offering enough comfort for daily use—the Tesla Model 3 Performance is definitely worth considering. However, sadly the road tax might be a big drawback in Singapore context.

Car Specifications

Battery Capacity : 78kWh

Charging Time     : Up to 282KM in 15 Mins (DC Charging Up T0 250kW)

Power                    : 618 BHP

Torque                  : 730 Nm

Century Sprint     : 3.1 secs

Range                    : Up to 528 KM

Boot Capacity     : 682L

Road Tax              : $6698 Annually

Official Website  : TESLA SINGAPORE

For more images of the ride, visit our Instagram Page!