The Tesla Cybertruck might have been hogging the limelight with its unconventional design and apocalyptic durability, but it’s not the most groundbreaking release from the electric vehicle pioneer in recent months. Last fall, Tesla unveiled a significant update to its trailblazing sedan, the Model 3, affectionately dubbed the Highland. Having had the opportunity to examine it up close at the Chicago Auto Show, although not from behind the wheel, it became clear that while its exterior and interior modifications might seem subtle at first glance, they potentially set a new standard for the electric sedan market.
The modifications to the Model 3’s body are not radical but rather refined. The notable change to its front fascia, featuring a new bumper and headlights, marks a departure from the previously characteristic upturned snout. The Highland edition adopts a more conventional, straightened nose, coupled with headlights that have lost their boomerang shape for crisp corners at each end. This design shift might make the Model 3 less distinctive but arguably elevates its elegance, presenting a classic yet modern aesthetic. Additionally, the tail’s slight modification with C-shaped taillights adds a subtle flair that, while easy to overlook, enhances the vehicle’s overall design.
Stepping inside, the Model 3 Highland reveals an interior that is familiar yet fresh. The most striking change is the introduction of a long, arcing ambient light strip that traverses the cabin, reminiscent of luxury models like the late Jaguar XJ. This not only adds a layer of visual interest to the dashboard but also represents a pinnacle in Tesla’s minimalist interior design philosophy. However, the shift from a wood grain dash trim to a fabric-covered panel, while unique, might be seen as a step back for those who appreciated the warmer aesthetic the wood brought to the car’s interior.
The steering wheel redesign is another point of contention. Tesla’s decision to replace the traditional stalks for turn signals with steering wheel buttons in pursuit of minimalism might not sit well with everyone. The argument against this choice is practical; turn signal stalks offer the advantage of remaining stationary, making them easier to find without looking, especially during turns. This critique is not unique to Tesla, as similar design choices have been questioned in other high-end vehicles, highlighting a broader debate within the automotive industry about the balance between innovation and usability.
Despite these changes, the Highland’s interior largely retains the qualities that have defined the Model 3’s cabin experience. The forward visibility remains unparalleled, thanks to the low positioning of the hood, dash, and thin pillars. The spacious front seating area and supportive seats continue to make the Model 3 a comfortable ride, albeit with an awkwardly high seating position. However, the rear seating area still presents challenges for adult passengers due to the low seat position and limited headroom, a design choice seemingly made more bearable by the expansive glass roof.
The addition of a new 8-inch rear touchscreen for controlling climate functions and entertainment for rear passengers is an interesting choice. While it adds a layer of autonomy for those seated at the back, its small size and low positioning might not make it the most practical feature, especially for longer journeys. This decision, juxtaposed with the move to simplify the control scheme at the front, highlights Tesla’s ongoing experimentation with the balance between functionality and minimalist design.
Cargo space remains unchanged, with the Model 3 offering a generous trunk and a smaller ‘frunk’ that is more suited for storing charging cables and emergency items rather than regular luggage. This practicality, combined with new features such as blind-spot warning, acoustic glass, and an upgraded sound system, underscore Tesla’s commitment to evolving the Model 3 while retaining its core strengths.
Despite not having the opportunity to test drive the Highland Model 3 due to Tesla’s policy on press cars, initial impressions suggest that the suspension tuning might lean towards a sportier ride. This, along with the other updates, indicates Tesla’s ambition to refine and perfect the Model 3 in response to consumer feedback and evolving market dynamics.
The Tesla Model 3 Highland embodies a blend of subtle refinement and bold innovation. While some changes might provoke debate among purists and fans alike, the Highland edition of the Model 3 demonstrates Tesla’s unwavering pursuit of improvement. It stands as a testament to the electric vehicle revolution, pushing the boundaries of design, comfort, and technology. As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve, the Highland Model 3 positions itself as a beacon of what’s possible, challenging the status quo and inviting drivers to reimagine the future of sedans.
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