Tesla Launches Cheaper Model 3 and Model Y—But Not in Canada

Tesla has unveiled new entry-level versions of the Model 3 and Model Y, both dubbed Standard RWD variants, offering more affordable pricing with simplified features. However, they’re currently U.S.-only models—and Canadian availability remains uncertain.
The Model 3 Standard RWD starts at $36,990 USD (≈ $50,800 CAD) and offers up to 321 miles (517 km) of range. The Model Y Standard RWD starts at $39,990 USD (≈ $55,000 CAD) and delivers the same 321 miles (517 km) on a charge. Both vehicles use a 69 kWh battery pack — one module less than their Premium versions — and support peak charging speeds of 225 kW, good for about 165 miles (265 km) of added range in 15 minutes.
Tesla described the new models on X, saying: “Meet Model Y Standard & Model 3 Standard – our most affordable vehicles. Ultra-low cost of ownership, engineered for safety, and comes with the best Tesla features you love.”
Both cars come with Tesla’s 15.4-inch centre touchscreen featuring Tesla Theatre, Tesla Arcade, and integrated Grok AI, plus access to 70,000+ Superchargers worldwide. Also included are Sentry Mode, Dog Mode, Camp Mode, and Cabin Overheat Protection. Interior features include heated front seats (no rear heated seats), a heated steering wheel, and textile + vegan leather upholstery.
Model Y Standard RWD – Key Specs
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Price: $39,990 USD (≈ $55,000 CAD)
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Range: 321 mi / 517 km
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0–60 mph: 6.8 s
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Power: 300 hp
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Battery: 69 kWh
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Wheels: 18-inch (321 mi range) or optional 19-inch (+ $1,500 USD) for 303 mi range
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Charging: 225 kW peak (165 mi added in 15 min)
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Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
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Interior: 15.4-inch touchscreen, 7-speaker audio, heated front seats only; no second-row touchscreen
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Safety: 8 cameras (including front bumper camera with washer)
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Weight: 4,061 lbs (123 lbs lighter than Model Y Premium RWD)
As for some other differences, the Model Y Standard has a “closed glass roof”…so it’s cloth on the ceiling of the car.
Model 3 Standard RWD – Key Specs
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Price: $36,990 USD (≈ $50,800 CAD)
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Range: 321 mi / 517 km
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0–60 mph: 5.8 s
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Power: 286 hp
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Battery: 69 kWh
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Wheels: 18-inch (321 mi range) or optional 19-inch (+ $1,500 USD) for 303 mi range
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Interior: 15.4-inch touchscreen, 7-speaker audio, heated front seats only; no second row touchscreen
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Charging: 225 kW peak (165 mi added in 15 min)
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Safety: 8 cameras with front bumper camera & washer
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Weight: 3,759 lbs (132 lbs lighter than Model 3 Premium RWD)
Both vehicles include traffic-aware cruise control but no Autosteer by default (basically cruise control that can follow the car in front of you and turns in the road). Full Self-Driving (FSD) remains an optional upgrade priced at $8,000 USD (≈ $11,000 CAD) or $99 USD/month (≈ $135 CAD).
Updated Tesla U.S. Lineup
- Model Y Standard RWD – $39,990 USD (≈ $55,000 CAD)
- Model Y Premium RWD – $44,990 USD (≈ $61,900 CAD)
- Model Y Premium AWD – $48,990 USD (≈ $67,400 CAD)
- Model Y Performance – $57,490 USD (≈ $79,000 CAD)
- Model 3 Standard RWD – $36,990 USD (≈ $50,800 CAD)
- Model 3 Premium RWD – $42,490 USD (≈ $58,400 CAD)
- Model 3 Premium AWD – $47,490 USD (≈ $65,200 CAD)
- Model 3 Performance – $54,990 USD (≈ $75,600 CAD)
Why Canada Is Left Out
The new Standard trims aren’t listed on Tesla’s Canadian website. This is likely due to U.S. import tariffs and pricing disparities, which make these lower-cost models less profitable north of the border. Right now, the Model Y is cheaper than the Model 3 in Canada. You can’t even custom order the Model 3 right now, but existing inventory is available from $67,800 CAD. The Model Y is available from $64,990 CAD and it’s coming from Tesla’s Berlin Gigafactory to side step tariffs. Not only that, the removal of the federal $5,000 iZEV rebate has also resulted in a plunge in EV sales here. It’s supposed to come back but the Liberal government won’t say when.
Tesla says deliveries for both new variants begin in the U.S. within the coming weeks. What do you think about these pared down entry Standard Model 3 and Model Y trims?
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It is good to have options for cheaper EV.
We'll probably get it when it will be produced in Berlin because of US and Chinese tariffs.