New screen, headlining for Tesla Model 3

HAVING just rolled out Grok AI chatbot through the Tesla Model 3 line-up (and others), news gleaned from “backend data” says a further series of interior updates is likely for the midsize four-door sedan focusing on a new display and a dark headliner.

The info’ was sourced from Tesla’s online configurator assets and Electronic Parts Catalogue that according to online outlet notateslaapp.com “suggests” the MY26 Model 3 will gain features previously reserved for its larger sibling, the Model Y, as the brand continues to align specification across its range to rein in costs.

While not yet officially announced, the changes have been identified within European and Asia-Pacific market data, indicating an imminent rollout for those regions.

After owner feedback which indicated customer demand for a darker interior option, particularly in markets where glare and perceived cabin quality are a major issue, a shift away from the current light-grey interior lining appears probable.

Backend references to interior code “IN3PB” – traditionally associated with Tesla’s premium black interior – now correlate with updated visual assets depicting a darker headliner treatment, consistent with recent revisions applied to the Model Y.

Also revealed is a hardware upgrade to the Model 3’s central infotainment screen, with the Electronic Parts Catalogue listing a new “Display_16_QHD” component.

The Model 3 is currently equipped with a 15.4-inch touchscreen and is expected to adopt a larger 16.0-inch unit featuring a higher-resolution 2560 x 1440 (QHD) panel, replacing the existing 1920 x 1200 display.

Beyond the size increase, the new screen is set to deliver improved clarity and pixel density, enhancing the visual experience for navigation, media and vehicle controls.

The revised display is also understood to adopt a 16:9 aspect ratio, resulting in a slightly reduced vertical height compared with the outgoing unit, potentially improving forward visibility over the dashboard.

Our source says the presence of updated components across multiple MY26 build configurations indicates production readiness, with evidence pointing to Tesla’s Shanghai facility as the likely first to implement the changes.

As with previous running updates, the upgrades are expected to be introduced without formal announcement, appearing first in Tesla’s online design studio before progressively rolling out across global markets.

Based on the timing of similar updates, the revised Model 3 specification could become available in Europe and Asia-Pacific markets within days.

While unconfirmed, notateslaapp.com says the use of shared mounting architecture with the Model Y suggests a retrofit of the darker headliner into existing Model 3 vehicles may be feasible, subject to parts availability and compatibility.

Owners considering such modifications are advised to confirm fitment details prior to undertaking any changes.