Tesla has introduced a new entry-level Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) in Australia as part of a 2027 update, dropping the starting price of the electric sedan to just $45,900 (before on-road costs).
The new variant sits below the existing Model 3 Premium Rear-Wheel Drive, which starts from $54,900, creating a sizeable $9000 gap between the two. Despite the lower price, Tesla quotes an impressive 572km of WLTP driving range, along with a 0-100km/h time of 6.2 seconds.
The cheaper model retains the familiar Model 3 exterior design, panoramic glass roof, front camera, 18-inch wheels, matrix LED headlights and powered boot.
Most of the cost cutting is found inside. The rear passenger touch-screen has been removed, while the audio system is reduced to seven speakers. Upholstery combines flat-woven textile and vegan leather, although the front seats retain heating and electric adjustment.
A 16-inch central touch-screen remains, along with wireless phone charging, three USB-C ports, heated steering wheel, heat pump and footwell ambient lighting.
Cargo capacity is rated at 682 litres across the boot and front storage compartment, expanding to 1659 litres with the rear seats folded.
The new variant is also Power Share capable, allowing the car’s battery to run external appliances and equipment through Tesla’s Outlet Adapter.
Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) driver-assistance package is available through a $149-per-month subscription. Other software features include Grok AI integration, Sentry Mode, Pet Mode and over-the-air updates.
A new Glacier Blue exterior colour has also been introduced, joining Pearl White, Diamond Black and Stealth Grey.
The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty, while the battery and drive unit receive eight years or 160,000km of coverage, including a minimum 70 per cent battery-capacity retention guarantee.
Orders open from October 1, with the first Australian customer deliveries scheduled for mid-to-late October. The addition expands the Australian Model 3 range to four variants. See below for starting prices (excluding on-road costs):
2027 Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive: $45,900
2027 Tesla Model 3 Premium Rear-Wheel Drive: $54,900
2027 Tesla Model 3 Premium Long-Range Rear-Wheel Drive: $61,900
2027 Tesla Model 3 Performance All-Wheel Drive: $80,900
