Core Tesla Model 3, Model Y variants get new names

Tesla Australia has renamed most of its line-up to bring it into alignment with other markets, with all Model 3 and Model Y variants save for the flagship Performance duos getting new titles.

The move comes as the American electric vehicle (EV) specialist launches stripped-out ‘Standard’ variants of its models overseas; the new naming convention creates uniform across all key global markets.

As such, the entry-level Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is now known as the 2026 Tesla Model 3 Premium Rear-Wheel Drive, while the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive has become the 2026 Tesla Model 3 Premium Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive.

It’s the same story for the Model Y, with the base model now sold as the Premium Rear-Wheel Drive and the Long Range All-Wheel Drive as the 2026 Tesla Model Y Premium Long Range All-Wheel Drive.

The respective Performance models meantime retain the existing ‘Performance All-Wheel Drive’ designation.

Tesla Australia has confirmed the name changes don’t come with any price or equipment alternations, meaning the Model 3 still starts from $54,900 plus on-road costs and the Model Y from $58,900.

Those waiting for a cheaper Standard version of either to come along will be bitterly disappointed as the local operation has stipulated they “will not be available for Tesla Australia and New Zealand”.

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