Tesla says new Model 3 ‘Track mode’ is only available with $5,000 ‘Performance Upgrade’

Tesla’s upcoming new ‘Track Mode’, which enable drivers to get more control of the car on the track, is one more reason to spring for the more expensive Performance version of the Model 3.

But in a controversial move, Tesla now clarifies that ‘Track mode’ is only available with the $5,000 ‘Performance Upgrade’ package that is optional with the Model 3 Performance.

When Tesla updated the Model 3 options and pricing in June, it broke down the Performance upgrades unrelated to the powertrain in a new package.

It’s a $10,000 upgrade to go from the standard AWD Dual Motor powertrain to the Performance AWD Dual Motor powertrain.

After that, buyers can add the “Performance Upgrades” package for $5,000. It includes an increase of the top speed from 145 to 155, a carbon fiber spoiler, a suspension upgrade, 20” performance wheels, aluminum alloy pedals, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and red performance brake calipers.

Tesla says that the track mode, when available, should be added to the list because it “will only be available with the Performance Upgrade Package”:

Track Mode will only be available with the Performance Upgrade Package

— Tesla (@Tesla) August 31, 2018

The move is somewhat controversial with some Model 3 buyers who thought it was part of the base Model 3 Performance.

As we previously reported, Tesla claims that they have developed their own in-house vehicle dynamic controls (VDC) system for the first time with the Model 3 Performance version, which is allowing them to develop more advanced driving modes.

Electrek’s Take

I am not a fan of that. I’ve already said that I find it hard to see the $10,000 value in the upgrade to go from the standard AWD Dual Motor powertrain to the Performance AWD Dual Motor powertrain if those are virtually the same powertrain.

Tesla said that the performance version features the same motors (AC in the front and permanent magnet in the rear) as the dual version, but they are picking the highest rated ones with double the burn-in process to make sure they can handle a higher output.

Is that really worth $10,000?

I think that there’s already more value in the Performance Upgrade package, which actually has the top speed increase along with the other changes mentioned above. It’s not clear why the capabilities enabled by the new VDC would also be limited just for those with the package.

I can get that better tires, suspension and brake you could technically get more out of track mode, but if it’s indeed configurable like Elon Musk said, you could still tweak settings to have more fun with you base Model 3 Performance.

And that’s coming from someone who ordered both the Performance powertrain and Performance Upgrade package.

What do you think? Let us know in the comment section below.