It wasn’t too long ago that the automotive social media world was flooded with videos and reports showcasing powerful Teslas achieving supercar-level acceleration and performance. This spectacle caught everyone’s attention, especially at a time when electric vehicles (EVs) were just beginning to make their mark, and seeing a car that looked ordinary yet reached incredible speeds was a novelty.

Today, it’s no longer rare to find an EV, particularly with the growing number of Chinese manufacturers entering the market, that can achieve similar feats. The ability of an EV to go from 0 to 100km/h in under four seconds is no longer as extraordinary as it once was. So, in this context, what makes the updated Tesla Model 3 Performance—currently the most powerful Model 3 available in Singapore—still relevant to drivers here?

What Makes the Model 3 Performance Special?: Let’s start with the stats. The dual motors in the Model 3 Performance produce 618hp and 730Nm of torque, a significant upgrade from the 506hp and 660Nm of the pre-facelift Model 3 Performance that launched in 2021. It's also considerably more powerful than the Model 3 that qualifies for Category A (for low emissions) we tested last year. This power allows the latest Performance variant to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.1 seconds, a feat that could easily outpace a Ferrari under the right conditions.

What’s the Driving Experience Like?: Describing the sensation of acceleration is challenging—it’s an experience that can only be fully appreciated through superlatives or exclamations. The Model 3 Performance offers three throttle response modes: Standard, Chill, and Insane. The last one, in particular, launches you forward with the force of a cannon, provided you find a clear stretch of road. It’s an exhilarating experience, though it can be overwhelming for some, almost like a roller-coaster ride—thrilling for some, but nausea-inducing for others. For those who enjoy it, though, the rush can be addictive.

More Than Just Speed: What Else Does the Model 3 Performance Offer?: Beyond its insane speed, the Model 3 is an enjoyable EV to drive. As a sportier variant, the Performance model includes several upgrades to enhance its driving dynamics. These include more powerful brakes, stickier sports tires, firmer suspension, adaptive dampers, and selectable drive modes for power distribution between the wheels.

In Sport mode, the Model 3 Performance truly shines. Its chassis is well-balanced, making it extremely controllable and stable when cornering, without losing comfort for daily driving. While the steering could be more engaging, the car’s overall performance is outstanding. There’s also a Track mode for experienced drivers, allowing for fine-tuned control over power delivery and stability systems—best used in controlled conditions.

Cosmetic Upgrades and Interior: There are some minor cosmetic changes, such as reshaped bumpers, a small rear spoiler, stylish 20-inch wheels, a 10mm lower ride height, and a distinctive badge on the boot lid. However, the rest of the car remains quite similar to other Model 3s. Inside, aside from the sports seats, the cabin is nearly identical to the regular Model 3, with the same 15.4-inch touchscreen that controls everything and a minimalist dashboard lacking traditional physical buttons. This design choice is divisive, but Tesla’s decision to reintroduce a physical stalk for the upcoming Model Y suggests they’ve taken note of customer feedback.

Is It Worth It?: Teslas are often polarizing, but if evaluated objectively, the Model 3 Performance offers excellent value. Priced at $256,054 including COE (as of May 2025), you get an EV that can outperform many sports cars at a much lower price point, while still being fun to drive. Sure, the interior design might not be for everyone, but if you can overlook that, the Tesla Model 3 Performance proves it’s more than just a car that generates social media buzz—it's a car with a lot of substance.