Tesla has quietly upgraded the entire U.S. Model 3 lineup with a handful of smart hardware changes. No flashy announcement. No Elon tweetstorm. Just updates—reflected silently in the Design Studio—that now bring the American-spec Model 3 in line with recent international changes.
The updates apply to all trims, including the newly released Standard model, and while the changes might seem minor, they directly address long-standing customer feedback.
A New Front Camera for Smarter Parking
Let’s start with the biggest addition: a front bumper camera. This new lens enhances Tesla Vision by providing better visibility during low-speed maneuvers like parking or navigating tight spaces. It’s a small but meaningful upgrade—already included in other Tesla models—that helps the Model 3 “see” more of the road ahead.
The Turn Signal Stalk Makes a Comeback
In a rare reversal, Tesla has brought back the physical turn signal stalk. After removing it in the 2023 Highland refresh in favor of steering wheel buttons, the decision triggered widespread backlash.
Drivers missed the tactile feel—and Tesla took notice. The stalk quietly returned to Model 3s in China and Europe earlier this year, and now it’s back in U.S. builds too. Sometimes, the classics just work better.
Retrofit Available for Older Model 3s
Good news for recent Model 3 buyers: you don’t need to upgrade your entire car to get the stalk back. Tesla is offering a $595 retrofit kit, including installation, through its Service Centers. That move should satisfy drivers who bought during the Highland window but miss the physical controls.
New Look, Subtle Flex
Tesla also made a small design change—blacking out the front chrome emblem. The result is a sleeker, more modern aesthetic that aligns with design tweaks already seen in Europe and Asia.
Still Waiting in Canada
Canadians will need to wait. The Tesla Canada configurator still shows the old configuration, likely due to remaining pre-tariff inventory. But given the global rollout pattern, the upgrade is likely just a matter of time.
