Key Takeaways
1. The 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift has a 5% increase in range due to improved aerodynamics and power efficiency, not a larger battery.
2. The Model 3 Long Range RWD range increased from 322 miles to 343 miles, while the Long Range AWD improved from 316 miles to 332 miles.
3. The Model 3’s range gains (6.5%) surpass those of the new Model Y Juniper, achieved without changing battery size.
4. Tesla’s internal testing may yield higher range numbers than EPA estimates; recent tire changes to lower rolling resistance could contribute to range improvements.
5. Model 3 owners can now expect to drive about 20 more miles on a single charge before recharging.
The 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift has revealed a 5% increase in range, mostly due to better aerodynamics and power efficiency instead of a boost in battery size.
Model 3 Range Improvements
On the other hand, Tesla has demonstrated its capability to enhance the range of existing vehicles, particularly with the Model 3. The cheapest Model 3 Long Range RWD has seen its range rise to 343 miles from the previous 322 miles.
Additionally, the Model 3 Long Range AWD has also experienced a similar upgrade, increasing its range from 316 miles to 332 miles on a single charge.
Comparing Range Gains
The 6.5% increase for the base Model 3 surpasses the range boost that new Model Y Juniper owners will receive compared to the previous model. Like the Juniper refresh, this improvement was made possible by reducing the power consumption rate of the Model 3, keeping the battery size unchanged.
It’s worth noting that the new range figures for the Model 3 are based on the 19-inch Nova Wheels. The specifications now simply mention “estimate” instead of “EPA estimate,” indicating that these numbers come from Tesla’s internal testing rather than official EPA figures.
Reasons Behind the Changes
Typically, Tesla’s internal testing is more stringent than EPA standards, so the range number might be even higher once the official EPA estimates are released, similar to what happened with the Model Y Juniper, which was initially rated for 320 miles but later received an EPA estimate of 327 miles.
The recent change of tires on the Model 3 from Continental to Goodyear Eagle Sport, which have lower rolling resistance, could be the reason behind this range increase for the existing vehicle.
When Tesla officially announced the EPA range for the Model Y Juniper refresh, its chief engineer praised the “most efficient tires” ever used in a Tesla, hinting that similar improvements might have been made for the Model 3 tires.
Regardless, Model 3 owners can now expect to get about 20 more miles out of their vehicles before needing to recharge.
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