Tesla has rolled out some small but important updates to the Model 3 in select Asian markets. While this update does not represent a full redesign, it continues the automaker’s trend of making incremental improvements to its most popular sedan.
Earlier this week we told you about upcoming changes to the Model 3 based on filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), and now they are available in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
There are two changes on the outside, the biggest of which is a new front bumper camera. This additional perspective plugs a blind spot, supporting better parking assistance and giving drivers improved visibility in tight spaces. It will also contribute to improvements in Full Self-Driving (FSD) performance. With the addition, Tesla’s entire vehicle lineup now includes a front bumper camera.
Another more minor change is the removal of the Tesla ‘T’ logo from the frunk. The ‘TESLA’ logo on the trunk lid remains.
Another significant change is to the interior, where the turn signal stalk has finally returned. Tesla had shifted to capacitive touch controls on the steering wheel in recent years, but the update reintroduces the traditional stalk-based setup, responding to driver feedback in these markets. Many owners found the stalk more intuitive for signaling, particularly in busy traffic environments.
Tesla had already brought the turn signal stalk back to the Model 3 in China earlier this year. For those that bought the stalkless Model 3, Tesla is offering a retrofit.
While these changes are now available for the Model 3 at Giga Shanghai, it is likely only a matter of time before they make their way to North America.
