2026 Tesla Model Y and Model 3 Standard Unveiled, But Not Headed to Australia

Tesla has introduced new ‘Standard’ versions of its popular Model 3 and Model Y in the United States, offering lower prices but with stripped-down features and simplified design. However, these cost-cutting variants are currently limited to the US market, with no confirmation of an Australian release.

▶️MORE:Tesla Model 3 2025: Latest Specs, Features & Pricing Breakdown

A Leaner, Cheaper Tesla Lineup for the US

In lieu of the US$7500 tax credit which will soon end, Tesla’s latest move aims to make its vehicles more affordable by removing several premium features. The new Model 3 Standard starts at US$36,990 (A$56,200), while the Model Y Standard begins at US$39,990 (A$60,700), a reduction of about US$5000–$5500 compared to their Premium counterparts.

To achieve these savings, Tesla has removed certain physical controls and comfort amenities. Both models now lack FM radio, relying solely on digital radio. Seat adjustment buttons have been deleted, forcing drivers to make all changes via the central touchscreen.

Despite the cuts, the cars retain essentials like the 15.4-inch infotainment display, heated front seats, dual wireless phone chargers, and power tailgate.

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Design Tweaks and Trim Changes

The Model Y Standard has undergone more noticeable design changes than the Model 3. It now features:

• Simplified single-piece LED headlights and redesigned tail-lights
• New front and rear bumpers and body-coloured tailgate section
• Updated 18-inch “Aperture” wheels (with optional 19-inch “Crossflow” alloys)

Inside, Tesla has opted for cloth and leather-look upholstery instead of full synthetic leather. The panoramic glass roof has been replaced with a covered “closed” version, and power-folding rear seats have been removed.

In contrast, the Model 3 Standard retains its glass roof but loses features like power-folding mirrors and ventilated seats. Both models also downgrade from a 15-speaker audio system to a 7-speaker unit and replace the HEPA cabin filter with a standard particulate filter.

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Range, Power, and Performance

Under the surface, both the Model 3 and Model Y Standard variants are rear-wheel drive and powered by smaller battery packs. The Model Y’s new 69.5kWh battery delivers an EPA-rated range of 321 miles (517km) on 18-inch wheels and 303 miles (488km) on 19-inch wheels.

The Model 3 Standard offers the same figures, down slightly from the longer ranges of their Premium RWD versions.

Performance has also been toned down:

• Model Y Standard: 224kW (300 hp), 0–60 mph in 6.8 seconds
• Model 3 Standard: 213kW (286 hp), 0–60 mph in 5.8 seconds

Both vehicles support DC fast charging up to 225kW, compared to 250kW for higher trims.

▶️MORE:Tesla Model 3 & Y Home Charging Guide (2025)

Tech and Safety Adjustments

While Tesla has cut some features, the new Standard models retain the brand’s advanced driver-assistance systems, including Autopilot and optional Full Self-Driving (Supervised) for US$8000 (A$12,100). However, lane-centering assist has been removed.

Tesla has also added a front bumper camera to all new US-built Model 3 and Model Y units, likely as part of its evolving FSD hardware suite.

Both vehicles are now available in just three paint options, Stealth Grey, Pearl White, and Diamond Black.

▶️MORE:Tesla and BYD Push EV Sales to Record 11.3% Market Share

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Australian Context

For Australian buyers, these Standard variants won’t be joining Tesla’s local lineup. The Model Y and Model 3 available in Australia will continue to feature the higher-end trims, retaining luxury and convenience equipment that the US versions have lost.

With Tesla’s local strategy focused on maintaining premium positioning and strong competition from BYD, Kia, and Hyundai, there’s currently no indication these budget-focused Teslas will make it Down Under.