A top-of-the-line Tesla Model 3 Performance costs $70,500.
With the long-awaited $35k Model 3 still no where in sight, I thought I’d explore the extreme opposite and see how much it’s *possible* to spend on a newtop-of-the-line Tesla Model 3. The answer? $70 Large. $70,500 to be exact. And that’s after the recent $2k price cut but beforefactoring in taxes and fees, the (now reduced) $3,750 federal tax credit, gas savings, or any other benefits. Let’s break down what kind of mid-size all-electric sedan you’ll get for an additional $26,500 over the base price of $44k.
Model 3 Performance Edition ($18,000): This package upgrades your Model 3 to dual motors (all-wheel drive) and the long range battery. You’ll get: 310 miles of range, 3.3 seconds 0 – 60 mph, and 155 mph top speed. You’ll also get the 20″ performance wheels, performance brakes, a carbon fiber spoiler, lowered suspension, aluminum alloy pedals, and “Track Mode”(!)
A top of the line Tesla Model 3 will set you back $70,500 USD, before tax credits, incentives, or fuel savings.Red Multi-coat ($2,500): It’s a ticket-magnet, but this color is an absolute show-stopper.
White Leather Interior ($1,000): White leather is only for certain people (you know who you are). If you plan on going outdoors, ever, or having kids, save a grand and buy these black rubber mats for the Model 3 instead.
Enhanced Autopilot ($5,000): Most owners say this option is so impressive, it should be standard. In the future, we’ve been promised this will allow your Tesla to be 100% self-driving. Over-the-air software updates are gradually making this a reality, but it’s not there yet. That said, the standard autopilot provides impressive safety features like automatic emergency braking and forward and side-collision warnings. If you change your mind, you can always upgrade to Enhanced later, for a premium.
Safest Car on the Road (no additional cost): this cannot be overstated. The Model 3 is the safest car on the road, hands down. It received NHSTA’s top rating for “lowest probability of injury,” beating every other car, truck, and SUV on the market. Somehow, it even beat the Model S and Model X.
A top of the line 2018 BMW M3 costs $12k more, is 0.6 seconds slower, and gets 78% worse fuel mileage than a Tesla Model 3.
While this may sound like a lot of money for a sedan, compare it a top-of-the-line BMW M3 for $82k. It’s hard to deny the looks of the BMW M3, but it costs $12k more, is 0.6 seconds slower 0 – 60, and gets 78% worse fuel mileage (25 mpg vs 116 mpge).
Meanwhile, a fully loaded Model S tops out at $145,000. We’ll save that breakdown for a future post.
