A handful of new spy images of the heavily-revised Tesla Model 3 have been shared on social media, providing us with our best chance to see the new car and to get an idea of some of the changes that have been made to it.
These high-resolution photos of the car were snapped by Y2KColin on Twitter and show a prototype in Palo Alto, California with black cladding over the front and rear fascias. This cladding does a good job of hiding much of the car’s updated design but fortunately, we are given an unimpeded view of the car’s side.
Few changes are visible but we can see that the door skins and door handles appear identical to the outgoing model. The most prominent change we can see is a small crease that extends from the side mirror housings on the front quarter panels along the front door. This is a design feature present in the Model Y but new for the Model 3.
Read: Tesla Model 3, Y Owners Claim Their Steering Systems Are Malfunctioning, Feds Open Investigation
Tesla Model 3 “Project Highland” just Spotted in Palo Alto, CA. Any changes here? pic.twitter.com/wreYnI27Nx
— Colin W. (@Y2KColin) July 27, 2023
Some reports assert that Tesla has equipped the updated Model 3 with a new camera positioned low on the front fascia and that the car will use the brand’s latest Tesla Vision system that completely ditches ultrasonic sensors in favor of cameras. While not visible in these images, it is widely believed that significant changes will be made to the headlights, taillights, and bumpers of the new Model 3, all of which should combine to make for a sleeker and more visually-appealing sedan.
A series of modifications are also believed to have been made to the car’s cabin and if reports are true, they will be far more comprehensive than a traditional facelift. Updates could include the yoke steering wheel of the Model S and Model X, an increased focus on recycled materials, and an ambient lighting system.
It is not yet known when Tesla plans on releasing the new Model 3 but we would be surprised if it is not unveiled in full by the end of this year.