Tesla Model 3 gets 750km range variant for NZ

Tesla has announced significant updates to its Model 3 lineup for 2026, introducing an all-new Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive variant with up to 750km WLTP range and upgrading the Performance model’s battery capacity.

The new Model 3 Long Range RWD will be priced from $71,900 in New Zealand, excluding government charges, while the updated Performance variant starts at $84,900 following a battery upgrade that extends range from 528km to 571km WLTP.

Both models will feature black Tesla badging and will be available for order from October 3, with test drives from late October and deliveries beginning in November 2025.

Performance gets battery boost

The Model 3 Performance receives an updated NMC (Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt) battery that increases WLTP range to 571km while maintaining the variant’s performance credentials.

The Performance model delivers 343kW of power, accelerates from 0-100km/h in 3.1 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 261km/h. Tesla says the vehicle achieves its extended range through highly efficient design where all components work seamlessly together.

New long-range variant targets distance drivers

The Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive offers what Tesla claims is the longest range of any battery electric vehicle available for purchase and delivery in Australia and New Zealand as of October 2025.

The 750km WLTP range is certified with 18-inch wheels, dropping to 691km with optional 19-inch Nova wheels. Tesla says actual range may vary depending on conditions and driving behaviour.

Model 3 variants for Australia and New Zealand will continue to be built at Tesla’s Gigafactory Shanghai facility.

Supercharger network reaches milestone

Tesla has confirmed its Supercharger network across Australia and New Zealand has grown to 1003 posts across 163 locations. The company says Superchargers can add up to 282 kilometres of range in 15 minutes, with stops typically short as charging above 80% is rarely necessary.

Enhanced service offering

Tesla has introduced a mobile tyre repair service operated by the company, offering puncture repair and tyre replacement at customer locations. A 24/7 loaner wheel programme is also available through Tesla’s roadside assistance network, accessible via the Tesla app.

The Tesla Model 3 received a five-star safety rating from ANCAP and Euro NCAP, achieving high scores in child occupant and vulnerable road user protection under 2023-2025 testing criteria. Key safety features include advanced airbag systems, a fortified battery pack, an active bonnet for pedestrians, and an in-cabin child presence detection system.

Both 2026 Model 3 variants will be available in Pearl White Multi-Coat as standard, with optional colours including Diamond Black, Deep Blue Metallic, Stealth Grey, Quicksilver, and Ultra Red. Interior options include standard black or optional white trim.