Model 3 Performance review tests acceleration as Tesla prices it with tax credit

The new Model 3 Performance specs may disappoint those who were expecting 600+ HP and crazy acceleration numbers, but the first 2024 Ludicrous-badged sedan reviews paint a rosier picture.

2024 Model 3 Performance vs 2019 Model 3 Performance specs

The Model 3 Performance goes from 0-60 MPH in 2.9 seconds, faster than its predecessor, though the combined output of its new rear and old front motor is 510 HP.

It has a top speed of 163 MPH, 547 lb-ft of torque, and, with 296 miles of range, stops just shy of the proverbial 300-mile mark.

Tesla says that the 2024 Model 3 Performance outputs 22% more continuous power, 16% higher torque, as well as the whopping 32% of extra peak power compared to the last 2019 Model 3 Performance refresh.

2024 Model 3 Performance price and tax credit eligibility

Tesla has priced the new Model 3 Performance very competitively, starting it from just $52,990 before the federal tax credit or other savings.

That's right, thanks to its Panasonic battery, the Model 3 Performance fully qualifies for the $7,500 tax credit in the US, bringing its price down to $45,490, a number that is hard to beat for a 500 horsepower cars.

Granted, Tesla advertises the new Model 3 Performance as a $40,000 car, but that is because it applies the potential gas savings over 5 years compared to a legacy ICE vehicle.

Model 3 Performance reviews

A few weeks ago, Tesla gathered an assorted panoply of YouTubers and influencers for a hands-on experience, so the firs Model 3 Performance reviews are now out.

Needless to say, everyone says that the sub-3 seconds acceleration is amazing for a car of its price tag and nearly glues you to the ventilated sports seats.

Apart from the bucket seats with more support, they found the interior very similar to the Model 3 Highland, save for the carbon dashboard and the new UI.

The new adaptive suspension makes the Model 3 Performance much more stable now, report the reviewers, with less body roll and feeling "grippier" when it comes to traction. The Standard and Sports suspension and steering modes also made a tangible difference between a comfortable ride and a more aggressive feel.

There is also a brand new Track Mode V3, which brings "all-new calibration for the powertrain and adaptive suspension to give you more authority behind the wheel," while "you can customize handling balance, stability controls and regenerative braking to set the car up how you like it."

Despite that the Track Mode is only supposed to be used, well, on a racetrack, the YouTubers couldn't be bothered and gave the plethora of settings a spin.

All in all, Tesla has done a commendable job keeping the new 2024 Performance fun to drive without making it too heavy or overburdened for everyday use, just as a Model 3 should be.

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