Tesla increases Model 3 prices for New Zealand

International price increases for the popular Tesla Model 3 have impacted the New Zealand market, with the manufacturer confirming the second price increase for the model in three weeks.

Each trim level in the Model 3 range has had its price altered, with more expensive variants copping more significant premiums

The entry-level Model 3 (formerly known as the ‘Standard Range) is now priced from $74,900; a $1700 jump over its previous price of $73,200.

This is the latest in a series of pricing adjustments for Tesla’s cheapest locally offered model. Up until last July, it was priced from $66,990. It’s now almost $8000 more expensive than it used to be.

The Model 3 Long Range has received the most significant price increase, leaping from $86,900 to $91,200; a $4300 premium.

The flagship Performance, meanwhile, is now $3000 more expensive, jumping to $103,900.

The pricing changes don’t appear to impact the Model Y. Curiously, this isn’t the case in Australia, where the much anticipated plug-in’s price has increased.

Tesla announced pricing for the Model Y earlier this month on both sides of the Tasman. Its price in New Zealand remains $76,200 for the base grade and $108,900 for the Performance.

The update comes amid a significant number of Model 3 owners listing their cars for sale on TradeMe following the announcement of the Model Y order book opening several weeks ago.

Tesla representatives including chief executive Elon Musk, have yet to comment on the origins of the latest pricing changes. But it’s widely speculated that they’re a response to ongoing manufacturer struggles with inflation and increased costs.