The Tesla Model 3 has gotten somewhat of a cult following since it first hit the electric car scene back in 2017.

Videos have circulated online showing drag races between Tesla‘s most advanced model and some of the most esteemed sports cars on the market. And the Model 3 isn’t just pipping them to the prize of first place – it’s crossing the line seconds ahead!

If you thought the argument for battery-powered cars couldn’t get any stronger, think again. Tesla has created a Performance version of the car that, for an extra £16,000, turns this vehicle into the ludicrously quick machine that the brand’s infamous ‘Ludicrous Mode’ suggests.

Want to find out what the Performance variation of the Model 3 gets over the Standard Range Plus and Long Range versions? Read our full review to see what it’s like inside-out, the standard features and how it performs out on the road.

Tesla Model 3 Performance in numbers

• Acceleration (0-62mph): 3.4 seconds
• Top speed: 162mph
• Power: 577bhp
• Electric range: 270 miles
• Charge time (0->270 miles): 7h45m* for 100% charge
• Fast charge time (27->216 miles): 22 minutes for 80% charge

*Charging times can be achieved by using a standard 7.4kW home charger.

As the name suggests, this Model 3 isn’t all about trivial knick-knacks (or as Tesla calls them, ‘Easter Eggs’). Instead, it’s what’s under the shell that counts here.

Performance models feature a powerful dual-motor drivetrain – one for each axle. In an out-and-out sprint, the Model 3 has the beating of the BMW M3 and Audi RS 4.

Tesla Model 3 Performance standard features

Your ‘standard’ Model 3 isn’t exactly unequipped.

For starters, you’ve got the massive 15″ tablet-like touchscreen infotainment display mounted in the centre of the dashboard. Although there isn’t much else in terms of flashy buttons, dials or trims in the cabin, everything you need to control inside is housed within this giant screen.

There’s plenty of robust material used for the upholstery, dash and door sills too. In short, it feels a lot more premium than the ‘partial premium interior’ description used by Tesla suggests.

How then does Tesla justify spending £16,000 more on its baby saloon in order to get your hands on its Performance guise?

Well, as standard you’ll get the following additional features on top of the base model when you make the step up:

• 20″ performance wheels
• Performance brakes
• Carbon fibre spoiler
• Lowered suspension
• Aluminium alloy pedals
• Increased top speed from 145mph to 162mph
• Track mode
• All-wheel drive

What’s it like to drive?

While the Model S grabs all the headlines as Tesla’s flagship vehicle when it comes to speed, Model 3 is undoubtedly the brand’s best for handling.

Traction is absolutely brilliant in the Model 3, with a setup that offers virtually no risk of skidding, regardless of weather conditions. Tesla’s all-wheel-drive system is very eager too, so grip while cornering at pace is guaranteed.

Adding ‘track mode’ to the mix has definitely bumped up the fun factor of this car too. Drivers can customise handling in three ways:

1. Balance: you can decide how much torque is delivered to the front and rear motors for different oversteer and understeer behaviours.
2. Stability assistance: the stability control systems can be turned on and off depending on how much driving autonomy you want behind the wheel.
3. Regenerative braking: with the track mode feature you can manually adjust how much deceleration is delivered by the Model 3’s motors and foundation brakes. Remember that this will affect how much braking force is required to slow the car down.

Premium interior vs partial premium interior

Another key difference between standard Tesla Model 3 vehicles and the Performance guise is the quality of the interior.

Tesla specifically point out that you’re getting its very best premium interior when you step up to its range-topping Model 3.

Performance models throw in some extra comforts for driver and passengers that make journeys in the car much more refined. This includes 12-way power adjustable heated front and rear seats, a premium audio system (14 speakers, a subwoofer, two amps and ‘immersive sound’) and interior floor mats.

Are you partial to a bit of karaoke on the go? Well, the Model 3 Performance comes as standard with a one year free subscription to the brand’s ‘Premium Connectivity’ pack. A ‘Caraoke’ function lets you play your favourite sing-along tracks through your beefy audio system while displaying the follow-along lyrics on the massive infotainment screen.

Do you want to configure your ideal Tesla Model 3 Performance, without needing to worry about the hassles of ownership? Then why not consider leasing? Compare prices on our latest Tesla Model 3 lease deals and get a quote in minutes.

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