Tesla’s 2026 model lineup costs between $36,990 for a base Model 3 RWD in the United States and $59,130 for a Model Y Performance, while Australian buyers can save up to $4,050 on select Model 3 and Model Y stock.
Key Facts
- U.S. Model 3 RWD starts at $36,990; Model Y Performance at $59,130 (Digital Trends, Oct 2 2026).
- Australian discount program offers up to $4,050 off eligible Model 3 and Model Y units (The Supercar Blog, Oct 2026).
- Full Self‑Driving (FSD) option adds $8,000 to any trim (InsideEVs, 2025 update).
- Discounts apply only to stock vehicles; exclusions include Model Y Performance and entry‑level Model 3 RWD (The Supercar Blog).
- All U.S. Model 3 trims now feature a 16‑inch center touchscreen (Digital Trends).
What is the current base price of the 2026 Tesla Model 3 in the United States?
The base 2026 Tesla Model 3 Standard Rear‑Wheel Drive is priced at $36,990 in the United States, Puerto Rico and Mexico, reflecting the new 16‑inch screen upgrade (Digital Trends).
How do Australian discounts affect the cost of new Tesla models?
Australian buyers can receive a discount of up to $4,050 on selected new Model 3 and Model Y vehicles that are currently in stock. Demonstrator cars may carry additional savings, and a trade‑in bonus of up to $2,000 is also available (The Supercar Blog).
These offers are limited to private‑consumer purchases; fleet, rental, government and business buyers are excluded. Eligible customers must order and take delivery by December 31 2026 (The Supercar Blog).
Which Tesla trims are excluded from the Australian discount program?
The discount does not apply to the Model Y Performance or the entry‑level Model 3 Rear‑Wheel Drive. Those models retain their standard pricing (The Supercar Blog).
How much does Full Self‑Driving cost across Tesla’s 2026 lineup?
Full Self‑Driving (FSD) is priced at $8,000 for any trim, up from the previous $12,000 beta price. The feature remains optional and can be added at purchase or later via over‑the‑air update (InsideEVs).
What are the performance‑related price differences between Model 3 trims?
Performance‑oriented trims carry higher price tags but also deliver more power and quicker acceleration. For example, the Model 3 Performance costs $56,630 and accelerates from 0‑60 mph in 2.9 seconds, while the Premium AWD version is $49,130 with a 4.2‑second sprint (InsideEVs).
How does the new 16‑inch screen impact Model 3 pricing?
The larger 16‑inch center touchscreen is now standard across all Model 3 trims, replacing the older 15.4‑inch unit. This hardware change did not alter the list price; the base RWD remains $36,990 (Digital Trends).
What are the key differences between the 2026 Model Y Standard and Premium trims?
The Standard Rear‑Wheel Drive Model Y starts at $41,630 and drops several features, including 19‑inch alloy wheels, a glass roof headliner, and heated rear seats. The Premium Rear‑Wheel Drive version costs $46,630, adds a longer EPA‑rated range of 357 miles, and includes frequency‑dependent shocks for a smoother ride (InsideEVs).
How do Tesla’s U.S. prices compare to the Australian discount amounts?
| Model | U.S. Base Price | Australian Discount | Effective Australian Price* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model 3 Standard RWD | $36,990 | Up to $4,050 | ≈ $32,940 |
| Model 3 Premium AWD | $49,130 | Up to $4,050 | ≈ $45,080 |
| Model Y Standard RWD | $41,630 | Up to $4,050 | ≈ $37,580 |
| Model Y Performance | $59,130 | Not eligible | $59,130 |
*Exact Australian pricing varies by dealer and eligibility.
What additional costs should buyers anticipate?
All Tesla purchases include a mandatory $1,390 delivery charge in the United States (InsideEVs). Optional upgrades, such as larger wheels, premium paint, or the $8,000 FSD package, can quickly add several thousand dollars to the sticker price.
FAQ
What is the cheapest new Tesla you can buy in the U.S. in 2026?
The 2026 Tesla Model 3 Standard Rear‑Wheel Drive, starting at $36,990, is the lowest‑priced new Tesla in the United States (Digital Trends).
Can I combine the Australian discount with a trade‑in bonus?
Yes. Eligible buyers may receive up to $2,000 in trade‑in credit on top of the discount, provided the trade‑in vehicle is registered and legally drivable (The Supercar Blog).
Do the discounts apply to used Teslas?
No. The Australian promotion is limited to new, in‑stock vehicles; used‑car purchases are excluded (The Supercar Blog).
Will the new 16‑inch screen be available on the Model Y?
The 16‑inch screen rollout applies only to the Model 3 lineup. The Model Y continues with its existing display configuration (Digital Trends).
When does the Australian discount program end?
Buyers must order and take delivery of an eligible vehicle by December 31 2026 to qualify for the discount (The Supercar Blog).
Sources: The Supercar Blog – Digital Trends – InsideEVsUpdated: October 28, 2026.
