While the Tesla Model 3 Performance is undeniably quick in a straight line, boasting impressive horsepower, those seeking a dedicated track weapon or a pure sports car experience might find it falls slightly short. Let’s delve into the nuances of its performance capabilities and limitations.
One area where the Model 3 Performance reveals its constraints is in braking. Although equipped with upgraded brakes compared to the standard Model 3, providing commendable stopping power – achieving 60-0 mph in 109 feet – they are prone to overheating rapidly. A single forceful stop from high velocity can push the brakes into the critical temperature zone. The Track Mode display, which offers real-time monitoring of brake, motor, and battery temperatures, might even alert drivers to potential reductions in braking performance under such strenuous conditions. Upgrading to carbon-ceramic brakes could significantly enhance braking resilience in demanding driving scenarios.
Handling is another aspect where the Model 3 Performance exhibits room for improvement. When pushed aggressively into corners, noticeable body roll becomes apparent. The car tends to lean considerably on the outer front tire, leading to a tendency towards understeer upon corner entry, followed by a slight oversteer as you exit. For casual spirited driving on tracks or winding roads, the Model 3 Performance remains enjoyable. However, at the limits of its performance envelope, the suspension demonstrates a degree of softness, and the steering feedback could be more communicative, providing a more connected driving feel.
Finally, while the Model 3 Performance boasts a noteworthy range of 306 miles as per the Edmunds EV Range Test, its battery capacity depletes considerably when subjected to high-intensity driving, such as hot lapping on a track. After a standard set of performance tests and a few laps on a handling course, the battery charge level in a Model 3 Performance can plummet from full to just 50%. This rapid energy consumption highlights the trade-off between exhilarating performance and range endurance in demanding driving situations.
