New affordable Tesla Model Y, Model 3 variants debut in the US

New affordable Tesla Model Y, Model 3 variants debut in the US

KUALA LUMPUR: Tesla is currently going through a challenging phase, marked by declining EV sales, growing competition, and financial pressure. To turn around this difficult situation, the American EV giant has made a strategic move; it unveiled two new entry-level variants of the Model Y and Model 3

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Why has Tesla launched the new Standard variants?

    Tesla launched the Model 3 Standard and Model Y Standard to counter market slowdown, making its bestselling models accessible to a wider audience.
  • What makes them different from regular models?

    The Standard models are value-focused options, with some luxury features trimmed and performance slightly reduced.
  • Exclusive to the US as of now, the Tesla Model Y Standard and the Tesla Model 3 Standard are rear-wheel drive models and priced almost USD 5,000 (RM 21,000) cheaper than their regular versions.

    Photo from Tesla
    • Model Y Standard starts at USD 39,990 (RM 169,000), USD 5,000 (RM 21,000) cheaper
    • Model 3 Standard starts at USD 36,990 (RM 156,000), USD 5,500 (RM 23,000) cheaper

    In line with lower pricing, Tesla Standard models also see a significant reduction in features. Here’s a quick look at what has been retained and what has been trimmed.

    Photo from Tesla

    Feature

    Tesla Model 3 Standard

    Tesla Model Y Standard

    Drivetrain

    Slightly reduced than the Premium RWD 

    Power: 286 hp

    Performance: 0 - 100 kmph in 5.8 seconds

    Slightly reduced than the Premium RWD 

    Power: 300 hp

    Performance: 0 - 100 kmph in 6.8 seconds

    Battery and range

    69.5 kWh (trimmed from 75 kWh)

    517 km

    69.5 kWh (trimmed from 75 kWh)

    517 km

    DC charging

    225 kW (down from 250 kW)

    225 kW (down from 250 kW)

    Exterior

    Minor changes are there.

    New Standard 18-inch wheels (optional 19-inch Nova wheels)

    Limited paint options

    Light bars removed, slim one-piece headlights, simplified air intake

    Limited exterior colour options

    New Standard 18-inch Aperture wheels (optional 19-inch Crossflow)

    Sunroof

    Panoramic roof retained

    Panoramic roof replaced with sealed headliner and insulation

    Interior

    Ambient light strips and ventilated seats are removed

    Rear heated seats are gone while steering adjustments are now manual

    No rear touchscreen


    15.4-inch infotainment unit, wireless chargers, seven speakers, smartphone based key access, maintaining Tesla’s digital-first interface retained

    Manual steering & mirrors, no rear heating, rear seats manually fold

    Minimalistic console

    No rear touchscreen


    15.4-inch infotainment unit, wireless chargers, seven speakers, smartphone based key access, maintaining Tesla’s digital-first interface retained

    Safety

    Autopilot retained (Full Self-Driving optional)

    Autopilot retained (Full Self-Driving optional)

    Photo from Tesla

    Tesla EVs in Malaysia

    Tesla made its way to Malaysia in 2023 with the Model Y and Model 3. Both these Tesla EVs are winning the hearts of local enthusiasts, with the Model Y currently being the fourth best-selling EV with 2,045 units sold from January to August 2025. The Tesla Model 3 is also a strong contender, securing sixth place in the top-selling list with a sales figure of 1,116 units. 

    The Tesla Model Y price ranges from RM 199,000 to RM 288,000, while the Tesla Model 3 retails between RM 189,000 and RM 218,000.

    Also read: 6-seater Tesla Model Y L launched in China with longer wheelbase

    Contents

    Sippi Vig

    Sippi Vig

    Sippi is a versatile writer and specializes in crafting both blog articles and site content for the automotive industry. Her strong analytical skills help in curating articles backed with stong number analysis for our audience. She enjoys reviewing the latest cars/models and describing new technologies. She holds a master of business administration degree in finance and marketing. When she’s not working, she enjoys travel, adventure, reading, and gardening.

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