New Tesla Model 3 and Model Y updates: better range and an indicator stalk
October 03, 2025 by Mario Christou
Car changing is a big deal
Tesla has made some changes to the Model 3 and Model Y, promising more electric range and greater ease-of-use. Senior reviews writer Mario Christou explains all.
- Tesla has upgraded the Model 3 and Model Y with new battery tech
- Model 3 gets a heated wide-angle front camera
- A new indicator stalk replaces the Model 3’s indicator buttons
- Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3 can now travel 466 miles to a charge
- New Model Y gets the same batteries, now has 390-mile range
The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y are some of the most popular electric cars on sale. While they’re loved by a lot of their owners, the ultra-minimalistic interiors can be a faff to use – and other manufacturers are introducing cars that travel even further such as the upcoming BMW iX3 and Mercedes CLA Electric.
To keep them from falling behind the pack, Tesla has introduced new battery tech to its saloon and medium-sized SUV, meaning up to 466 miles from a single charge on the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3 – up from the current version’s 436 miles. If you fancy something cheaper, the entry level Rear-Wheel Drive car can go as far as 323 miles on a charge, an improvement of five miles.
All-Wheel Drive versions offer a touch less range, but the Long-Range model can now travel 445 miles, while the range-topping Model 3 Performance can only manage 355 miles, as a result of its more powerful motors and bigger wheels.
The Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive now offers 390 miles to a charge thanks to the same battery improvements. That’s 18 miles more than before, but it’s still 110 miles off the new BMW iX3
It’s not just under the skin where Tesla has made changes to the Model 3, because you now get – wait for it – an indicator stalk, as opposed to the existing steering wheel-mounted buttons. No need to re-invent the wheel, eh?
A bigger change comes in the form of a new front camera, offering a wider view than before which should make life a bit easier when parking or pulling out of tight roads. It’s clever, too, with its own heater and washer system to stay fog-free and clean in colder, wetter months. Neat.
Can those changes keep you from checking out the German alternatives, or can Mercedes and BMW tempt you away with their 500-mile ranges?
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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*Savings are made up of the maximum dealer discount off RRP – subject to dealership, location and trim. Prices correct at the time of writing.