Kuala Lumpur (Jan 24) - A few months after its global launch in October 2025, Tesla has introduced the Model 3 Standard to the Malaysian market, with the model now appearing on the official order page at a starting price of RM147,600, making it the most affordable brand-new Tesla available locally.
With the arrival of this variant, Tesla has rebranded the existing RWD, Long Range RWD and Long Range AWD versions as the Tesla Model 3 Premium range, while the Performance model remains the flagship offering.
In terms of performance and range, the Model 3 Standard RWD delivers a WLTP-rated driving range of 534km, slightly exceeding the Premium RWD’s 520km. Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h is marginally slower, with the Standard completing the sprint in 6.2 seconds, just 0.1 seconds behind the Premium RWD.
Visually, the Standard can be identified by its exclusive 18-inch Prismata wheels, with no option to upgrade to the larger 19-inch Nova design. Colour choices are also more limited, as buyers opting out of the default Stealth Grey can only select Pearl White or Diamond Black, each costing an additional RM5,000.
Inside the cabin, several cost-saving changes distinguish the Standard from the Premium models. The audio system is reduced to seven speakers instead of nine, and the FM radio tuner has been removed. Ambient lighting along the dashboard and doors is no longer included, nor is lighting in the door pockets. The steering wheel now features manual adjustment, while seat controls have been shifted entirely to the touchscreen, supported by driver profile memory.
Other interior differences include electrically adjustable side mirrors that no longer auto-dim, fabric upholstery replacing leather and microsuede, and reduced seat functionality. Front seats retain heating but lose ventilation, rear seat heating has been removed, and the rear touchscreen display has been eliminated. Rear air-conditioning vents now require manual adjustment.
Mechanically, the suspension setup has also changed. The Model 3 Standard uses a fully passive suspension system, similar to pre-Highland models, instead of the frequency-dependent shock absorbers introduced with the Highland update.
Alongside this launch, Tesla Malaysia has not introduced a Standard version of the Model Y, which remains more visually distinct from its Premium counterpart.
For Sabahans, the introduction of a more affordable Tesla Model 3 could improve access to electric vehicles, particularly as EV infrastructure in East Malaysia continues to develop. The lower entry price may encourage greater EV adoption in Sabah, helping residents reduce fuel costs while supporting the state’s broader shift towards cleaner transportation.