Tesla has rolled out a significant mid-cycle update to the Model 3 for European markets, featuring a larger battery, more power, and hardware changes that address some of the most persistent owner complaints.
New Battery and Range Gains
All European Model 3 variants now ship with an 82 kWh battery pack using LG's latest 5M cells, replacing the previous pack. The result is a meaningful range increase across the lineup:
| Variant | Old WLTP Range | New WLTP Range | Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| RWD | 513 km | 544 km | +31 km |
| Long Range RWD | 702 km | 750 km | +48 km |
| Long Range AWD | 678 km | 716 km | +38 km |
| Performance | 528 km | 571 km | +43 km |
The Long Range RWD variant now sits at 750 km WLTP, placing it among the longest-range mass-market EVs available in Europe.
Performance Boost
The Model 3 Performance receives a power increase from 460 hp to 500 hp, narrowing the gap with its North American counterpart (510 hp). The update reflects Tesla's ongoing effort to harmonise specifications between regional variants.
The Stalk Returns
Perhaps the most discussed change: physical turn signal stalks are back. Tesla removed the traditional stalk in the 2024 Model 3 "Highland" refresh, replacing it with steering-wheel buttons that drew widespread criticism. The new stalk handles turn signals only — no high-beam or wiper control — but addresses the primary complaint.
Front Bumper Camera
A new forward-facing camera integrated into the front bumper eliminates the blind spot directly ahead of the vehicle. This improves low-speed autonomous features and parking visibility, and likely supports future FSD capabilities in European markets.
The updated Model 3s are produced at Giga Shanghai, which supplies all European Model 3 units. The cosmetic addition of a blacked-out front Tesla logo rounds out the visual changes.
Update: Tesla subsequently launched a turn signal stalk retrofit programme for existing Model 3 owners in Europe at EUR 660, and in the US at $595. The range improvements have been confirmed across all delivered units.