Spending a day immersed in the world of Tesla enthusiasts offers a unique glimpse into the passion driving the electric vehicle revolution. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience this firsthand, stepping into the shoes of a Tesla aficionado to properly evaluate the brand new 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance. It turned out to be an enlightening and genuinely exciting day.
My friend Ian, a true data-driven enthusiast and early adopter, had just taken delivery of his Model 3 Performance a mere 18 hours before our planned test session. Ian’s deep dive into Tesla forums over the past few years had fueled a singular mission: to rigorously quantify the real-world performance of his new car within the first 24 hours of ownership. Fueled by online reports of a 3.14-second 0-60 mph sprint achieved by another owner, Ian arrived armed with a plan, and a connection to Fast Wheels, hinting at aftermarket wheel and tire upgrades to push the Model 3’s performance envelope even further.
This wouldn’t be your typical, surface-level first review. Instead, we aimed to delve deeper, satisfying the curiosity of those seeking more than just the usual tech-focused overview. We wanted to explore the raw performance and driving dynamics of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance in detail.
Unleashing the Instant Power: Initial Speed Tests
Our first order of business was to establish a baseline performance with the factory-equipped 20-inch wheels and tires. The 2018 Model 3 Performance, boasting a potent dual-motor setup and 450 horsepower, is officially rated by Tesla at 3.5 seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint. However, our initial runs told a different story. Right out of the gate, the Model 3 consistently clocked 3.2 seconds. As the tires warmed up with subsequent runs, the times dropped even further, reaching an impressive 3.17 seconds. Let’s be clear – this level of acceleration is genuinely rapid, placing the Model 3 Performance firmly in sports car territory.
Before embarking on any modifications, Ian generously handed over the key card, a nervous yet excited grin on his face. I eagerly seized the opportunity to experience the Model 3 Performance on some winding country roads. What immediately struck me was the car’s surprising familiarity.
Having recently driven a 2018 Volkswagen Golf R to Fast Wheels, its driving characteristics were fresh in my mind. Within moments of taking the wheel of the Model 3, the Golf R comparison sprang to mind. Much like Volkswagen’s acclaimed hot hatchback, the Model 3 Performance strikes a remarkable balance between taut athleticism and everyday usability.
Driving Dynamics: Poised and Responsive
Focusing on the steering feel, with all settings in “Normal” mode, the level of assistance is expertly calibrated. It requires just the right amount of input, offering light initial effort that builds linearly and predictably. The steering is also notably quick, hinting at the Model 3 Performance’s potential on a track. Adding to the excitement, Ian mentioned the imminent arrival of the “Track Mode” software update for his car, further piquing my interest in its dynamic capabilities.
The 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance’s ride quality lived up to expectations. Despite its 4,000+ lbs weight, the car feels agile and responsive. The dampers effectively smooth out road imperfections, maintaining composure even over challenging surfaces. The Model 3 remains firmly planted, exhibiting exceptional grip and resisting body roll even during quick changes of direction. While the ride is never harsh, it also avoids being overly soft, reinforcing the comparison to the Golf R. For many, the Golf R serves as a benchmark for handling prowess and ride comfort in a performance car. Tesla’s achievement in delivering a similar balance in their first attempt is truly commendable.
Given the prior acceleration tests, I refrained from conducting my own, especially with a car barely a day old and not my own. However, even a half-throttle application revealed the Model 3’s instantaneous and abundant power. Experimenting with repeated throttle inputs at varying speeds revealed no discernible lag or drop-off in power delivery – the thrust is consistently immediate and forceful.
A Minor Quirk: One-Pedal Driving Limitation
As someone still deepening my understanding of electric vehicles, I learned a notable detail from Ian: the distinction between permanent magnet motors and synchronous motors. The Tesla Model 3’s rear permanent magnet motor, while contributing to its efficiency, prevents true one-pedal driving. Unlike some EVs, the Model 3 doesn’t come to a complete stop solely through regenerative braking. This was a slight disappointment, as one-pedal driving is a desirable EV feature for many.
Upping the Ante: Aftermarket Wheels and Tires
Upon returning from the drive, Ian wasted no time in implementing his planned wheel and tire upgrade. He swapped the stock 20-inch wheels for lighter 18-inch Fast FC04 wheels and replaced the 235-section Michelin tires with wider 255/40 Yokohama Advan V105 rubber. The rationale was twofold: first, the 18-inch wheels are significantly lighter, reducing unsprung weight by 9.2 lbs per wheel. Second, the reduced rotational inertia promised even quicker acceleration.
The results were undeniable. With less than 3km on the new Yokohama tires, the Tesla Model 3 Performance achieved a 0-60 mph time of 3.12 seconds on its second run with the new wheel and tire setup. While breaking the 3-second barrier remained elusive on this particular day, the improvement was clear.
The Verdict: Incredibly Fast and Engaging
The 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance is undeniably, breathtakingly fast. While I still harbor some reservations about the minimalist cabin design and the central 15-inch touchscreen interface – details I explore further in my separate “Should You Buy” review – the fundamental driving experience is exceptional. The cabin is comfortable, and the seats are supportive. While the driving position initially felt slightly unusual, I suspect extended seat time would quickly resolve this.
Starting at $64,100 at the time of this test (with a base price closer to $45,600 as detailed in my earlier preview), Ian’s fully optioned Model 3 represented a significant investment. When asked about opting for the top-tier Performance model, Ian simply stated it was his dream car – and why compromise on a dream? His plans to track and even rally his Model 3 Performance underscore its impressive performance capabilities. Traditional performance cars from STI to RS and R models now face a serious electric contender. The 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance is not just fast in a straight line; it offers a genuinely engaging and dynamically rewarding driving experience.
