Tesla drops the ‘Standard’ designation

In October 2025, Tesla introduced more affordable versions of its two key models, the Model 3 and Model Y, by appending the designation ‘Standard’ to their names. The specifications were slightly reduced: for the Model Y, this included visual changes such as the removal of the continuous light strips at the front and rear, and a reduction in wheel size to 18 inches. Additionally, LFP batteries were fitted, which lowered the price of the Model Y Standard in Germany to approximately 39,990 euros. The previous trim level was subsequently renamed ‘Premium.’

Nothing changed for the ‘Premium’ models, but overnight, Tesla removed the ‘Standard’ designation from the former ‘Standard’ models. The base model is now called the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive, and in markets such as Germany and France, Tesla added a Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive variant. These are topped by the Model Y Premium Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive and the all-wheel-drive variant. The Model Y Performance All-Wheel Drive (read our test drive here) retains its original naming.

The situation is similar for the Model 3: the ‘Standard’ designation has also been dropped, and the base model, starting at 36,990 euros in Germany, is now called the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive. There is no ‘Long Range’ rear-wheel-drive variant for the saloon; instead, the Model 3 Premium Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive starts at 44,990 euros. Above this are the Premium all-wheel-drive variant (from 49,990 euros) and the Performance model (from 58,490 euros). Again, these prices are for the German market.

In the US, Tesla has also removed the ‘Standard’ designation and slightly expanded its Model Y lineup. A new addition is an all-wheel-drive version in the former ‘Standard’ trim, now simply called the Model Y All-Wheel Drive. Priced at 41,990 dollars, this new variant is positioned 2,000 dollars above the base Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive and below the Model Y Premium Rear-Wheel Drive (44,990 dollars). Compared to the Model Y Premium All-Wheel Drive, the new all-wheel-drive variant is 7,000 dollars cheaper. However, as it likely features the smaller LFP battery from the base model, this variant offers the lowest range of all Model Y powertrains, at 294 miles (473 km) according to EPA standards. In terms of equipment, the base all-wheel-drive model matches the cheaper rear-wheel-drive version.

In Germany, a Model Y with all-wheel drive and base equipment is not currently available. However, the ‘Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive’ variant in the simpler trim is offered here, which, in turn, is not available in the US. Tesla adapts its model range to suit the respective markets and production facilities.

This is not the first time Tesla has abandoned the ‘Standard’ naming convention. When the first Model 3 and Model Y variants with smaller batteries were launched, they were designated as ‘Standard Range’ to distinguish them from the ‘Long Range’ models. However, overnight, the battery-related designation was dropped, and the models were simply referred to as Model Y RWD.

tesla.com (configurator), teslarati.com, insideevs.com (both US Model Y)