Tesla Adds “Premium” Badge to Model 3 and Model Y


Tesla is rebranding its lineup in Australia and New Zealand to align with the global naming convention. If you were hoping for a price drop or a secret battery upgrade, prepare for disappointment. This is a strategic pivot to ensure the local fleet matches the international identity. The hardware, performance figures, and pricing stay exactly where they were yesterday.

The only changes appear to be adding the word Premium to non-performance models. This tweak applies to both the Model 3 and Model Y lineups. For example, the entry-level Rear-Wheel Drive variants are now officially known as the Premium Rear-Wheel Drive. It is a subtle shift designed to create a sense of consistency with the broader Tesla brand. While some regions have seen the release of Standard models, Tesla confirmed those specific variants will not be heading to Australian or New Zealand shores.

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The warranty coverage is robust but has specific hooks for those using their cars for work. Every new vehicle comes with a five year unlimited kilometre warranty covering paint, corrosion, and the infotainment system. However, if you are a commercial operator, that unlimited perk vanishes. For business use, the coverage is capped at five years or 150,000 kilometres, whichever arrives first. It is a vital distinction for rideshare drivers or fleet managers who rack up high mileage quickly.

The battery and drive units have their own protection. The RWD models get eight years or 160,000 kilometres, while the Long Range and Performance variants push that limit to 192,000 kilometres. Both guarantee at least 70% capacity retention. Tesla is also leaning into its mobile tyre service. Technicians now head directly to your location for repairs. If the tyre is beyond a roadside fix, they will swap in a loaner wheel so you can keep moving while your rim goes to the service centre.

Model

Variant

Price AUD

Price NZD

Model 3

Premium Rear-Wheel Drive

$54,900

$63,900

Model 3

Premium Long Range RWD

$61,900

$71,900

Model 3

Performance AWD

$80,900

$84,900

Model Y

Premium Rear-Wheel Drive

$58,900

$67,900

Model Y

Premium Long Range AWD

$68,900

$77,900

Model Y

Performance AWD

$89,400

$100,900

Tesla Stories


Written by Alan Zurvas

Alan Zurvas is the founder and editor of Gay Car Boys, Australia's leading LGBTQI+ automotive publication. Before launching GCB in 2008, Alan's automotive writing was published in SameSame.com.au and the Star Observer. With over 16 years of hands-on car reviewing experience, Alan brings an honest, irreverent voice to every review — championing value and innovation over brand loyalty.


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