Shortly after setting up shop in Malaysia, Tesla Malaysia is set to launch the Tesla Model 3 ‘Highland’ next week, as the company has sent the media invite this morning, it will take place at Central Court, Pavilion Damansara Heights on 19th October 2023.
Prior to this, Tesla Malaysia has already started taking preorders for the new Model 3 last month on its official website, available in two variants of Rear Wheel Drive and LR All Wheel Drive, prices start at RM189,000 and RM218,000 respectively, customers can simply place a RM1,000 non-refundable booking fee if they are interested in getting one, while Tesla Malaysia has also allowed customers who booked the Model Y to switch to the new Model 3 with no extra charges.
In terms of performance, the RWD variant with a single-rear mounted motor can do the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 201 km/h, while range is rated at 513km according to the WLTP cycle.
The LR All Wheel Drive with dual motor will then achieve the 100km/h mark in just 4.4 seconds, while top speed remains the same as the above, you also get a longer 629km range due to a bigger battery.
The new Model 3 features a facelifted exterior with sleeker headlamps and a redesigned tail lamp, while the bumpers have also been redesigned and a new single central vent gives the car a more aggressive look.
The interior dashboard now boasts LED lighting and adjustable dash trim. Tesla has also enhanced the material quality for a more opulent touch. The cabin features more aluminum accents, ensuring it doesn’t appear too simplistic.
Techy drivers will value the clearer and swifter dashboard display. This screen also offers the option to shut off the AC for the passenger side, conserving energy when driving solo. However, similar to the earlier Model 3, adjusting the blower angle is only possible through the display without any tangible dials.
A newly designed steering wheel now incorporates the turn signals, removing the necessity for stalks. This change might be seen as an advantage or a drawback, based on one’s adaptability. Along with the removal of the signal stalk, the gear lever has also been omitted. Gear selection (P, R, D, etc) is now done via the touchscreen.
If the touchscreen becomes unresponsive, gear selection buttons are available on the panel situated at the front of the roof, between the sunshades for the driver and front passenger.
Tesla Malaysia targets to deliver the Model 3 ‘Highland’ to new owners in late 2023, and for those who wants to get a touch and feel of the car, you can of course do so at Pavilion Damansara Heights starting next week.
