Should Tesla Update the Model 3 to a Juniper Version? | Carscoops

      An independent artist has created a mock-up of the Tesla Model 3 featuring the updated front and rear design of the new Model Y, and many believe it represents a significant improvement.

      Recently, an artist has visualized what Tesla’s Model 3 could look like with the revamped Model Y Juniper’s design elements. The addition of full-width light bars at both the front and rear gives the sedan a wider, lower, and more contemporary appearance.

      Although Tesla refreshed the Model 3 in late 2023, it didn’t prevent sales from declining in 2024.

      The Tesla Model Y currently stands as the most popular electric vehicle in the United States. At the beginning of this year, the automaker introduced a facelifted version of the Model Y, known as 'Juniper,' featuring a distinct look and several notable interior updates. The general consensus is that this update was well-received. The question now is whether Tesla should implement similar changes to the Model 3 sedan.

      Independent artist Sugar Design has provided a series of renders that illustrate how the four-door electric vehicle would appear with the new front and rear styling derived from its SUV counterpart.

      Tesla had already updated the Model 3 in late 2023, which included slimmer headlights and a more streamlined, rounded front design. Considering the Model 3 had been available for six years, it was due for a refresh; however, these changes did not stop the decline in sales. The 'Highland' version of the Model 3 was launched in the U.S. in mid-2024, following its earlier introduction in China and Europe, yet American deliveries for the year plummeted by 17.4 percent, totaling 189,903 units.

      Several factors contributed to this decline, such as the delayed arrival of the updated vehicle (alongside public awareness of its coming), a general drop in sedan popularity, and increased competition from traditional automakers. It's also worth considering whether potential buyers were disheartened by the minimal modifications made to the interior and exterior, particularly regarding a certain interior 'feature.'

      You may have your own views about the Highland’s front design, but our perspective is that while it does make the Model 3 appear sleeker, it also comes off as less exciting. Admittedly, the use of transverse front light bars is becoming commonplace, but Sugar Design’s concepts suggest that adopting the Juniper style for the Model 3's front end would be a significant upgrade. In fact, the design seems to suit the Model 3 better than the Model Y. We also appreciate the new rear design, which enhances the Model 3’s width, lower stance, and sporty feel.

      There is one notable Juniper feature absent from these renders that Tesla should definitely add to the Model 3, irrespective of changes to the lights: the turn signal control, which was moved to the steering wheel during the Highland update. In response to feedback, Tesla has opted to keep a traditional turn-signal stalk in the Model Y.

      Based on these visuals, do you believe Tesla should incorporate the Model Y’s design elements into the Model 3? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.