Not Yet Launched Globally, Tesla Model 3 "Highland" Enters Malaysian Market

Tesla Model 3 "Highland". (Doc. Tesla)

JAKARTA - After its global introduction in early September, the facelift version of Tesla Model 3, known as "Highland," has officially arrived at Tesla Malaysia's headquarters in Cyberjaya, Malaysia.

Reporting from Paultan, Monday, October 2, this latest Tesla Model 3 comes in two variants at different prices. The basic version of this model, namely Rein-Wheel Drive (RWD), will be priced at 189,000 ringgit or around Rp. 623.2 million. Meanwhile, the version with the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) double electric motor sells for 218,000 ringgit or the equivalent of Rp. 718.8 million for the Malaysian market.

The updated 3-model features a slimmer body, an increase in aerodynamics, as well as a slightly lower, longer, and narrower dimension compared to the previous model due to revisions to its body.

In terms of design, the most striking changes are seen in the sharper front, with a cleaner character line. The design of the headlights has also undergone changes to the LED daytime running signature which gives a similar impression to the Tesla Model X which also underwent an update this year.

Sharp folding on the engine cap also proceeds to the ferry, while the back comes with an attractive C-shaped backlight and a new wheel design that adds aesthetic elements.

Tesla also introduced two new colors, namely Ultra Red and Stealth Gray, which are claimed to change of appearance according to light and point of view. Both colors replace Red Multi-Coat as premium color choices.

For the interior of Model 3, Tesla has created a casual space feel with a mixture of aluminum materials and fabrics. Ambient lighting has also been added, while acoustic glass increases sound damping. The vehicle is equipped with a new 8-inch rearscreen that has integrated climate control, ventilation, and infotainment systems.

Tesla also includes a 17-speaker audio system with two subwoofers and two amplifiers for the Long Range AWD variant, while the Standard Range RWD version is equipped with nine speakers, one subwoofer, and one amplifier.

In terms of driving experience, a stronger combination of body and an updated suspension tuning are claimed to make the trip more comfortable. Tesla also replaces the transmission lever with "gear" control at the wheel, similar to the one in Model S and Model X, which produces smoother and relaxed driving quality.

Talking about performance, this cope electric car has the ability to reach a speed of 0-100 km/h within 6.1 seconds with a maximum speed of up to 201 km/h for the basic version. Meanwhile, the AWD variant has faster acceleration capabilities, reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds with the same maximum speed as the basic version.

The basic variant of Standard Range RWD can now cover a distance of up to 606 km with one battery charging, compared to just 490 km in the previous model. Meanwhile, the Long Range AWD Model 3 increased from 600 km to 629 km.