- Delivered across Sydney
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- Never swapped to a lesser car
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 Performance produces 370 kW and 660 Nm from two electric motors, enough to hit 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds. That is quicker than a Porsche 911 Carrera S from the same era, yet this car seats five, carries a boot and a front trunk, and costs nothing to fuel if you charge at home. We run one in our Sydney self-drive fleet from Parramatta, and this review covers what it is actually like to live with.
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Experience 370 kW and 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds for yourself. Self-drive hire from Parramatta, minimum age 20. Book online today.
What Is the 2020 Tesla Model 3 Performance?
The Model 3 Performance is the quickest version of Tesla's smallest sedan. It uses a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, with one motor on the front axle and one on the rear, producing a combined 370 kW and 660 Nm. Tesla quotes a 0-100 km/h time of 3.3 seconds and a driving range of 567 km on the WLTP cycle.
Our car is a 2020 example based at Parramatta. It is available for self-drive hire through Drive Tribe, with a minimum driver age of 20. That makes it one of the most accessible fast cars in our fleet, and certainly the most accessible Tesla.
The Performance badge brings more than just software. You get bigger brakes, a lowered suspension, 20-inch wheels, a carbon fibre spoiler, and Track Mode, which unlocks a more rear-biased power delivery and lets you adjust the stability control. It is a proper performance car, not just a quick sedan.
How Fast Is It Really?
Very fast. The 3.3-second 0-100 km/h claim is not marketing fluff. Electric motors deliver all their torque instantly, so the Model 3 Performance launches with a violence that feels almost unnatural the first time you experience it. There is no engine noise, no gearshift, no wait for the turbo to spool. You simply press the accelerator and the horizon rushes toward you.
When I drove it, the most impressive part was not the initial launch but the mid-range punch. Overtaking on the M4 or the Great Western Highway is a matter of a brief squeeze of the right pedal. The car is already gone before the other driver has finished checking their mirror.
Top speed is limited to 261 km/h, which you will never approach on a public road in Australia. But the acceleration is usable every day, and that is what makes it so addictive.
For a deeper look at how it compares to a traditional performance sedan, see our Model 3 Performance vs Mercedes-AMG C63 S: Silent Speed or V8 Theatre comparison.
What Is It Like to Drive Around Sydney?
Sydney roads are a mixed bag, and the Model 3 Performance handles them with surprising composure. The suspension is firm but not harsh, and the low centre of gravity from the battery pack keeps body roll in check through corners. On the twists and turns of the Old Pacific Highway, it feels planted and confidence-inspiring.
The steering is quick and precise, with three weight settings. I prefer Sport for its extra heft, though Comfort is better for parking. The regenerative braking is strong enough for one-pedal driving once you get used to it, and it feeds energy back into the battery in stop-start traffic.
Visibility is good, with a low dashboard and thin A-pillars. The glass roof makes the cabin feel airy, though it can get hot in summer without a shade. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of adjustment.
Parking is easy thanks to the reversing camera and sensors, though the 20-inch wheels are vulnerable to kerb rash. Be careful in tight car parks.
Range and Charging in the Real World
Tesla quotes 567 km of WLTP range. In real-world Sydney driving, you can expect somewhat less, especially if you use the performance regularly. Our own experience suggests that around 450 to 500 km is realistic in mixed conditions, and less if you are heavy on the accelerator.
Charging is where Tesla still leads. The Supercharger network is reliable and fast, and the Model 3 Performance can accept up to 250 kW at a V3 Supercharger. A 10 to 80 percent charge takes around 20 to 25 minutes, which is enough time for a coffee and a stretch.
At home, you can charge from a standard wall outlet, but a dedicated wall charger will give you much faster speeds. Most owners charge overnight and wake up to a full battery every day.
For a detailed breakdown of range on popular Sydney routes, read our Real-World Range of a Model 3 Performance Around Sydney article.
Track Mode: What It Does and Why It Matters
Track Mode is one of the features that sets the Performance apart from other Model 3 variants. It allows you to adjust the front-to-rear power bias, tweak the stability control, and monitor battery temperature and lap times. It also increases regenerative braking and cooling for track use.
On a track day at Sydney Motorsport Park, Track Mode transforms the car. It feels sharper, more responsive, and more willing to rotate. The brakes are strong, though they can fade after several hard laps. The cooling system does a good job of keeping temperatures in check.
Of course, you do not need to go to a track to enjoy Track Mode. It is a nice option to have, and it adds to the car's character.
Interior and Technology
The Model 3 Performance has a minimalist interior centred around a 15-inch touchscreen. There are no traditional gauges or buttons, which takes some getting used to. Almost all controls, from mirrors to climate, are accessed through the screen.
The screen itself is sharp and responsive, and the software is regularly updated with new features. You get navigation with live traffic, streaming music, and a range of games and entertainment apps. The sound system is excellent, with 14 speakers and a subwoofer.
Material quality is good, though not quite up to German luxury standards. The seats are synthetic leather, and there are some hard plastics lower down. But the overall design is clean and modern, and it has aged well.
Storage is generous, with a large centre console, door pockets, and a front trunk under the bonnet. The rear seats fold down for extra cargo space.
Living With It: Practicality and Costs
As a daily driver, the Model 3 Performance is surprisingly practical. It has five seats, a large boot, and a front trunk. The rear seats are comfortable for adults on shorter trips, though headroom is limited by the sloping roofline.
Running costs are low. Electricity is cheaper than petrol, and there is no engine oil, no spark plugs, and no exhaust to maintain. Brake pads last a long time thanks to regenerative braking. The main costs are tyres, which wear faster on the Performance due to its power and weight.
Insurance can be higher than a standard sedan because of the car's performance and repair costs. But overall, it is cheaper to run than a comparable petrol performance car.
For first-time EV drivers, we have a guide: Renting a Model 3 Performance as Your First EV: A No-Stress Guide.
How It Compares to Other Teslas in Our Fleet
We run three Teslas in Sydney: the Model 3 Performance, the Model Y RWD, and the Model X P100D. Each serves a different purpose.
The Model Y RWD is the sensible choice: more space, a higher seating position, and a lower minimum driver age of 25. It is slower, with 220 kW and a 5.9-second 0-100 km/h time, but it is more practical for families.
The Model X P100D is the luxury option, available only with a chauffeur. It has 568 kW, 967 Nm, and a 3.1-second 0-100 km/h time, plus falcon-wing doors and seven seats. It is a different experience entirely.
The Model 3 Performance sits in the middle: faster than the Model Y, more engaging to drive than the Model X, and the only one with Track Mode. It is the driver's choice.
For a full review of the Model Y, read our 2025 Tesla Model Y RWD Review: The Sensible Tesla, Rented.
Charging on Sydney Day Trips
Sydney is surrounded by great driving roads, and the Model 3 Performance is perfect for a day trip. The Supercharger network covers most major routes, from the Hunter Valley to the Southern Highlands and the Blue Mountains.
On a recent drive to the Blue Mountains, I stopped at the Supercharger in Blaxland for a quick top-up. By the time I finished a coffee, the car was ready to go. The whole experience was seamless.
For a map of Superchargers on popular routes, see our Every Supercharger Between Sydney and Your Day-Trip Destination guide.
If you are planning a trip, remember that cold weather can reduce range, so plan your charging stops accordingly.
Is the 2020 Model 3 Performance Still Worth It?
Absolutely. The 2020 Model 3 Performance remains one of the best all-round performance cars you can buy. It is fast, practical, and relatively affordable to run. The 2020 model benefits from several improvements over earlier cars, including a heat pump (in some markets) and updated software.
Compared to newer rivals, it still holds its own. The chassis is well sorted, the power delivery is addictive, and the technology is still class-leading. It is a car that can be driven daily and taken to the track on weekends.
If you are looking to hire one, our car is based at Parramatta and can be delivered anywhere in Sydney. You can book it directly on our Model 3 Performance page.
And if you want to explore the rest of our Tesla range, visit our Tesla hire Sydney hub.
Verdict
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 Performance is a landmark car. It proved that electric cars could be genuinely exciting, not just efficient. Five years on, it is still a thrill to drive, and it remains a benchmark for affordable performance.
We are proud to offer it for self-drive hire in Sydney. Whether you are a first-time EV driver or a seasoned enthusiast, it will put a smile on your face.
Book it for your next Sydney trip and experience silent speed for yourself.
If the Tesla Model 3 Performance is booked
We never move you down a tier. If your dates are taken, these are the performance cars we will offer instead, and we will tell you plainly if none of them is free rather than substituting something lesser on the day.
Tesla Model Y RWD
- 220kW
- 5.9s
- RWD
- 5 seats
Self-drive from 25, the everyday electric SUV in the fleet. Based at Merrylands, delivered anywhere in Sydney.
Tesla Model X P100D
- 568kW
- 3.1s
- 7 seats
- Chauffeur only
Falcon-wing doors, Ludicrous mode and a Drive Tribe driver included. No bond, no age limit for passengers.
Explore the Tesla Fleet
From the practical Model Y to the luxurious Model X, we have the right Tesla for every Sydney trip. View the full range on our Tesla hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the 2020 Tesla Model 3 Performance?
It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and has a top speed of 261 km/h. With 370 kW and 660 Nm from dual motors, it is one of the quickest sedans on sale. The instant torque delivery makes it feel even faster than the numbers suggest.
What is the real-world range of the Model 3 Performance?
Tesla quotes 567 km on the WLTP cycle. In real Sydney driving, you can expect around 450 to 500 km depending on conditions and driving style. Highway cruising at legal speeds is more efficient than stop-start traffic, but heavy acceleration will reduce range.
Does the Model 3 Performance have Track Mode?
Yes, Track Mode is standard on the Performance. It allows you to adjust power distribution, stability control, and cooling for track use. It also enables a lap timer and telemetry. It is a feature that sets the Performance apart from other Model 3 variants.
Can I hire the Model 3 Performance for a day trip from Sydney?
Absolutely. The car is available for self-drive hire from our Parramatta base, and we can deliver it anywhere in Sydney. The Supercharger network makes day trips easy, with fast charging on most major routes. Just plan your stops if you are heading far from the city.
What is the minimum age to hire the Model 3 Performance?
The minimum driver age is 20. You will need a valid driver's licence and to meet our standard hire requirements. The rate, bond, and any fees are shown on the car's page and in your booking total before you pay.
How does the Model 3 Performance compare to the Model Y RWD?
The Model 3 Performance is faster and more engaging to drive, with Track Mode and a lower, sportier stance. The Model Y RWD is more practical, with a higher seating position and more cargo space. The Model Y has a minimum driver age of 25, while the Model 3 Performance is 20.