The Tesla Model 3 lineup has undergone a refresh as of January 9, 2026, with the introduction of a new entry-level trim: the Model 3 Standard. Priced at £37,990, this new variant replaces the previous “Rear-Wheel Drive” model and aims to address the issue of high insurance costs for UK owners.
Tesla is also offering a PCP price of £299 per month, making it an attractive option for those looking to own a Tesla Model 3. The car comes in Grey as standard, with optional colors like White or Black available for an extra £1,300. It features 18″ Photon Wheels for a stylish look on the road.
In terms of price and performance, the Model 3 Standard offers significant value compared to the outgoing Model 3 RWD. With a starting price of £37,990, a range of 332 miles (WLTP), a 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds, and a top speed of 110 mph, the Model 3 Standard provides great performance at a more affordable price point. Additionally, the car falls into Insurance Group 32, making it more accessible for younger drivers and those in high-premium areas.
A notable change in the new Model 3 Standard is the return of the physical indicator stalk, a feature that many UK drivers will appreciate. This change from the controversial steering wheel buttons introduced in the previous model makes driving on British roads more intuitive and user-friendly.
The shift in battery strategy from LFP to NMC batteries has enabled Tesla to offer the Model 3 Standard at a lower price point. While the WLTP range has increased to 332 miles, daily charging recommendations have changed to preserve battery health. The interior of the Model 3 Standard has also been streamlined, with features like fabric and vegan leather seats, manual steering wheel adjustments, and tech deletions to reduce production complexity.
Despite these changes, the Model 3 Standard retains key features like the panoramic glass roof, the 15.4-inch center touchscreen, and the full suite of Autopilot safety hardware. This makes it a compelling option for those looking for an affordable electric vehicle that doesn’t compromise on performance and technology.
Overall, the Model 3 Standard is positioned as a competitive offering in the mass-market EV space, competing with other electric vehicles like the MG4, BYD Seal, and the new MINI Cooper Electric. It appeals to company car drivers with attractive Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rates and private buyers looking for a more affordable electric saloon option. With its combination of price, performance, and features, the Model 3 Standard offers a compelling choice for those willing to trade a bit of speed for savings and lower insurance costs.