Tesla is making waves once again with reports of two significant interior upgrades for the Model 3, aligning the electric sedan with recent refreshes seen on other models. The updates were discovered through backend coding in Tesla’s European and Chinese web configurators by @BERKANT, hinting at a global rollout for the 2026 model year.
One of the major changes includes the introduction of a black headliner for the Model 3. This move comes in response to long-standing customer requests for a monochromatic interior aesthetic, as even the “black” interior package previously came with a contrasting grey ceiling. Tesla recently made a similar switch for the Model Y in various markets, opting for a darker headliner. The reported internal code “Premium Black” suggests that the Model 3 will now sport a premium, all-black look, starting with the Performance and high-end trim levels.
In addition to the black headliner, Tesla is also rumored to be upgrading the Model 3’s display to a new “16-inch QHD” screen. This would represent a significant improvement in both size and clarity compared to the current hardware. The high-definition display is said to be the same unit found in the Model Y Performance, promising a sharper and more responsive user interface for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle controls.
While these changes are currently surfacing in overseas build data, Tesla typically standardizes its manufacturing processes across all regions. It remains to be seen whether these upgrades will indeed become a reality for the 2026 Model 3 globally.
In other news related to the Model 3, Tesla is aggressively targeting the electric sedan market with a new financing offer of 0.99% APR for the Model 3 Premium and Performance trims in the United States. This move represents a significant drop from the previous 2.99% offer and underscores Tesla’s strategic push to dominate the market.
Furthermore, Tesla has quietly introduced the cheapest Model 3 in the world in South Korea, with the launch of the Model 3 Standard priced at 41,990,000 won (approximately $28,000 USD). With local EV subsidies applied, the price drops even further, making it an attractive option for buyers in the region.
On the safety front, Euro NCAP has named the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y as the safest vehicles in their respective categories for 2025. The recognition comes as automakers continue to roll out more electric vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems, highlighting Tesla’s commitment to safety and innovation.
As Tesla continues to make strides in the electric vehicle market, these latest developments signal a bright future for the Model 3 and reinforce Tesla’s position as a leader in the industry.