Tesla has quietly refreshed the entire Model 3 lineup in the United States, introducing a handful of subtle hardware updates that bring the sedan in line with recent changes seen in other markets. The update arrives alongside the debut of the new entry-level Model 3 and Model Y Standard.
According to the online Design Studio in the U.S., all Model 3 variants — including the new Standard trim — now feature a front bumper camera, the return of a turn signal stalk, and a black front logo that replaces the traditional chrome emblem.
The front bumper camera adds a new perspective to Tesla’s sensor suite, improving visibility during low-speed maneuvers and helping enhance Tesla Vision’s ability to detect obstacles close to the vehicle’s nose. It’s a small addition that brings the Model 3 in line with the rest of Tesla’s vehicles, all of which now include a front bumper camera.
The turn signal stalk, meanwhile, reverses one of Tesla’s more controversial design decisions from the Highland update. After switching to steering-wheel-mounted touch controls in 2023, many owners voiced frustration over the lack of tactile feedback. Tesla listened, first bringing the stalk back in China earlier this year, then Europe, and now restoring it on U.S. builds.
Along with the addition to newly produced vehicles, Tesla has introduced a retrofit option for existing owners. The upgrade costs US$595, which includes installation at a Service Center.
Finally, the front logo has been blacked out, giving the Model 3 a cleaner, more understated look that aligns with recent design tweaks in Asia and Europe.
Despite these updates, there’s no sign yet that Canadian Model 3s will receive the same treatment. Tesla’s Canadian online configurator continues to show the same configuration introduced with the Highland refresh. Given Tesla is pushing the sale of pre-tariff inventory, which arrived in Canada several months ago before tariffs took effect, it may still be a while until we see these upgrades north of the border.
These latest U.S. changes follow a pattern seen over the past few weeks in other markets. In Asia, Tesla recently updated the Model 3 in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan with the same front camera and turn signal stalk, while in Europe, the company even began offering a €660 retrofit kit to restore the stalk on earlier Highland-era cars.
