Tesla Introduces Model Y and Model 3 Standard—The Most Affordable Yet
Tesla has introduced new “Standard” base versions of its two best-selling models — the Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV — that undercut each model's previous entry-level trims by thousands of dollars.
Key Points
- Tesla has launched new Standard versions of the Model 3 and Model Y, priced from $38,630 and $41,630 respectively — undercutting the previous base trims by up to $5,500.
- To reduce costs, both models lose some luxury touches such as ventilated seats, rear touchscreen controls, and premium materials, while gaining a cleaner, simpler interior layout and smaller wheel options.
- Despite a smaller battery and lower output, the Standard variants still deliver up to 321 miles of range and maintain Tesla’s Supercharger access, offering a more affordable entry point into the brand’s EV lineup.
The Model 3 Standard starts at $38,630, while the Model Y Standard begins at $41,630, both including destination.
Tesla’s new Standard trims mark a new naming strategy for the EV maker. Previous base versions were known as “Long Range,” but that name has moved up the ladder and lives under the new “Premium” badge. The Standard models drop some tech and comfort features to bring down the cost of ownership.
2026 Tesla Model Y Standard: All The Details
2026 Tesla Model Y Standard:
The Model Y Standard swaps some styling details and interior luxuries for a cleaner, simpler design. The slim light bars connecting the headlights and taillights are gone, replaced by integrated units in a reshaped fascia. Wheel sizes drop to 18 inches standard, with an optional 19-inch set available.
The smaller wheels should actually improve ride comfort—great news for anyone riding in the back of one being used for Uber duty, because I bet that rear seat still feels like you're sitting on a cardboard box.
The paint palette only includes gray, black, and white—with gray being the only free paint option.
Inside, the front seats lose ventilation, and a manual steering wheel adjustment replaces the powered kit. The vegan leather gives way to textile seat inserts, while the rear touchscreen and seat heating are removed.
Perhaps the most surprising change—the glass roof is sealed off inside with a headliner for better insulation and cost savings. That sounds like Tesla math.
Performance-wise, the Model Y Standard features a single rear-mounted motor producing about 300 horsepower, good for a 0–60 mph time of 6.8 seconds. The 69.5-kWh battery delivers an EPA-estimated 321 miles of range on the 18-inch wheels and 303 miles with the optional 19s.
2026 Tesla Model 3 Standard: All The Details
2026 Tesla Model 3 Standard:
The Model 3 Standard retains more of its upscale feel. The exterior looks nearly identical to the Premium version, with 18-inch wheels standard and 19-inch wheels optional, as well as the same limited color palette.
Inside, the sedan mirrors most of the Y’s changes — cloth seat inserts, manual steering wheel adjustment, and no rear touchscreen — though it retains the open glass roof that many owners love.
Tesla claims identical range estimates to the Model Y (321 miles on base wheels, 303 on optional 19s) and a 0–60 mph time of 5.8 seconds from its 286-hp single-motor setup.
While these new Standard models are more affordable, the pricing and naming strategy are still in flux—Tesla is known for frequent, unannounced changes. Still, the savings are clear with both standard models representing at least $5,000 in savings compared to Premium RWD models. Both models are already available to configure online.
Tesla has recognized that EV demand is cooling while competition is rising from cheaper electric models. Plus, the brand now lacks the cachet it once enjoyed before all those "Elon went crazy" bumper stickers became a thing. The new Standard trims trade a few creature comforts for accessibility—something the rest of the EV market will probably have to address sooner rather than later.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
More by Michael Accardi
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