That is the reference level for EVs, and that’s unlucky for all the opposite carmakers promoting EVs in Malaysia. Their plans have been sound, and so have been their electrical vehicles, however many enjoying within the RM150k to RM300k vary woke as much as discover their merchandise change into ‘poor worth’ in a single day, subsequent to the Tesla Mannequin Y and the Mannequin 3 you see right here.
It’s not truthful, as a result of an excellent EV is just not unique to Tesla (analysis and take a look at all earlier than committing to at least one), however Elon Musk’s automobile firm has robust branding and a direct gross sales mannequin that doesn’t require a neighborhood companion or sellers. After the primary salvo that was the Mannequin Y, the Mannequin 3 ‘Highland’ facelift upped the ante with extra interesting appears, newer tech and a fair cheaper price.
The Mannequin 3 facelift is obtainable right here in two variants, the Customary Vary rear-wheel-drive priced from RM189,000, and the Lengthy Vary all-wheel-drive priced from RM218,000. It’s the latter that Hafriz Shah evaluations within the video under.
The Mannequin 3 Lengthy Vary AWD will get a dual-motor powertrain in addition to a bigger capability battery, enabling a WLTP-rated vary of 629 km, in comparison with 513 km vary for the Customary Vary. The LR will also be recharged at the next DC charge of as much as 250 kW, whereas the SR takes in 170 kW max. Each variations have a prime velocity of 201 km/h, however the dual-motor LR is way quicker from 0-100 km/h – 4.4 seconds versus 6.1.
For me, extra necessary than the blistering efficiency is the a lot improved appears of the Highland. Small modifications, massive impact. This can be a facelift that’s instantly recognisable, with slimmer headlamps, extra outstanding LED DRLs and a revised rear finish with new hind lights. The Pearl White tester sits on 19-inch alloys, which look completely sized.
Inside, a brand new steering wheel homes the indicator sign controls rather than stalks, whereas the transmission is now managed by way of the touchscreen; a bodily set of substances selector buttons on the entrance of the ceiling function backup controls. Did they actually must reinvent the wheel on this method? The primary touchscreen itself is now brighter and quicker responding, and rear occupants now get an 8.0-inch unit in the back of the centre console.
The Mannequin 3 may be very well-equipped, with ventilated seats and a 17-speaker sound system with twin amplifiers and twin subwoofers, up from 14 audio system on the pre-facelift. The SR RWD will get a nine-speaker, single-amplifier arrange. As for driver aids, all Malaysian-spec Mannequin 3s include Autopilot as normal, although this may be upgraded to Enhanced Autopilot for RM16,000, or Full Self-Driving for RM32,000.
So, is the Mannequin 3 facelift the very best EV you should purchase for round RM200k? “It’s an outstanding electrical sedan. It’s way more comfy and refined than the earlier model, with the next high quality inside too. However, it’s removed from good,” our man says. For the complete overview and verdict, watch the video above.
GALLERY: 2024 Tesla Mannequin 3 Highland Lengthy Vary AWD
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