Tesla is fighting back against the tide of talented opposition with a new cut-price version of the Model 3 which costs only a little more than a top-spec MINI Cooper Electric. The company has also binned the controversial button indicators and reinstated a traditional stalk behind the steering wheel.

The new Model 3 Standard costs £37,990 - £2,000 less than the previous cheapest version - and it costs from £299 per month on finance. It has a smaller battery pack and a single rear motor. Tesla launched a Standard version of the Model Y in December 2025. 

The new set up gives the Model 3 0-60mph time of 6.2 seconds, which is an increase of 0.4 seconds compared to the older entry level car. This allows for more range – rising from 323 to 332 miles – and a lower insurance group. 

The simplified line up now has a Premium version with the single or dual motors and the bigger battery, giving a 410 mile or 466 mile range.  They cost £44,990 and £49,990 respectively. 

While the Standard has to make do without the customisable ambient lighting, power adjust steering wheel and rear seat touchscreen, it still has a decent level of kit. A glass panoramic roof is standard in the UK, unlike in some other markets where the roof has been covered over to save costs. 

The ‘vegan leather’ and textile seats are electrically adjustable and heated for front seat passengers, as is the steering wheel. The Premium models have an upgrade with microsuede fabrics.

Bad news for music fans though – the subwoofer has been binned from the Standard, along with the AM/FM tuner. There is also a limited exterior colour choice. Stealth Grey is the only 'free' option, with Diamond Black and Pearl White costing an extra £1,300. 

Under the body, the Standard has a conventional passive dampers for the suspension and the Autosteer in the driver assistance has been removed. 

The first deliveries are expected in February.