Tesla's freshened Model 3 Performance is a crazy fast, 510-hp bargain

Tesla's freshened Model 3 Performance is late to the U.S. market after the standard and long-range versions launched in January. But the 510-hp sport sedan may be the best deal of the bunch.

The performance model gets adaptive suspension for the first time, sport seats with a new design and carbon-fiber interior pieces trim, Tesla said. The automaker estimated 0 to 60 mph acceleration at 2.9 seconds.

"There's a new Tesla Model 3 Performance, and it already looks like a stellar bargain," Edmunds said this week. "It's based on the recently refreshed Model 3, a car we've come to enjoy as one of Tesla's best efforts to date." Tesla opened orders for the performance variant Tuesday.

Because the performance trim level qualifies for the $7,500 EV credit — and other Model 3s do not — the go-fast variant is less expensive than the long-range model for buyers who qualify for the incentive.

According to Tesla's website, the Model 3 Performance starts at $52,990. Including the point-of-sale tax incentive, the performance version starts at $47,130.

The Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive, the middle trim level, starts at $49,380, Tesla's website shows. The base Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3 starts at $40,630. All prices include shipping.

Because of stricter battery-sourcing requirements, the Model 3 base and long-range versions lost access to the federal tax credit on Jan. 1. The rules are meant to reduce reliance on China for battery materials.

Tesla said on its website that the Model 3 Performance includes a new track-driving mode that "calibrates adaptive suspension, chassis and powertrain controls to give you more control behind the wheel." The track setting offers customization for handling balance, stability control and regenerative braking, it said.

While all freshened versions of the Model 3 received new front and rear fascias, the performance model includes a unique rear diffuser and carbon-fiber spoiler to reduce drag and improve balance at high speeds, Tesla said. The sport model also gets an updated performance brake package, Tesla said.

The Model 3 Performance sits 0.4 inches lower to the ground than other versions and comes with unique forged wheels, Tesla said.

The EV maker upgraded the interior for a sportier, more premium experience while maintaining the brand's minimalist approach.

"New front seats feature enhanced bolstering and a deeper, more engaging driving position, plus heating and ventilation," Tesla said. The interior also includes carbon-fiber dash materials, premium stereo and a rear-seat infotainment display.

The performance variant gets 296 miles of battery range, according to the EPA estimate, compared with 341 for the long-range all-wheel drive.

One of the media outlets to drive the freshened Model 3 Performance was AutoTrader UK, which titled its April 23 YouTube video "Supercar Killer."

"I think they've done a fantastic job with this car," said Rory Reid, YouTube director for the outlet, in his video review. "Not only is the straight-line performance absolutely blistering, but it's also very, very good through the corners."

Reid noted the improvement versus the previous performance version of the Model 3 with the adaptive suspension, which can be switched from the softer "standard" mode to the firmer "sport" and "track" settings.

"One of the best things about his car is the dual personality that it has," Reid said. "It's quick, it's refined, you can drive it on a highway without feeling like you're in a 500-horsepower car."