HomeAutomotiveTesla Expands Variant Selection In Malaysia, Absorbing CBU Duties For 2026

Tesla Expands Variant Selection In Malaysia, Absorbing CBU Duties For 2026

Tesla Malaysia has introduced two new variants while maintaining pricing for existing models.

Tesla Malaysia has expanded its lineup in Malaysia with the introduction of the Model 3 Standard and the Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD). These additions are designed to lower the barrier to entry for premium electric mobility while offering the longest range capabilities currently available in their respective categories. It’s also worth noting that the brand is absorbing any price increases in 2026. So despite not having any CKD operations prices will remain unchanged.

The New Additions to the Malaysian Portfolio

The Model 3 Standard now serves as the most affordable entry point into the Tesla ecosystem in Malaysia, with a starting price of RM 147,600. Positioned below the Long Range and Performance variants, it offers a balanced package of a 534 km range (WLTP) and a peak supercharging rate of 175 kW. This allows the vehicle to recover up to 270 km of range in just 15 minutes. It is specifically targeted at urban commuters and first-time EV buyers looking for the lowest cost of ownership within the brand’s current offerings.

The Model Y Long Range RWD, priced at RM 216,450, sits between the base RWD and the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variants. Its primary value proposition is efficiency; it currently offers the longest range in the entire Model Y lineup, reaching up to 661 km on a single charge. With a 250 kW peak charging rate, it can add 267 km of range in 15 minutes. This variant is tailored for families and long-distance travelers who prioritize range over the sheer performance of dual-motor setups.

Impact on the Pre-Owned Market and Resale Values

The introduction of these two variants, particularly the Model 3 Standard at the sub-RM150k price point, is expected to exert significant downward pressure on the resale value of existing Tesla vehicles in Malaysia.

The new Model 3 Standard lacks physical controls for the seats

When Tesla first officially entered the Malaysian market, early adopters purchased the Model 3 RWD for RM189,000. The new Model 3 Standard effectively resets the price floor for the brand. Used car buyers are unlikely to pay a premium for a second-hand Model 3 if a brand-new unit, complete with a full warranty and the latest hardware iterations, is available for RM 147,600.

Furthermore, the Model Y Long Range RWD devalues older RWD and AWD units by offering superior range for a lower or similar price than what many paid for earlier models. As Tesla continues to optimize its manufacturing costs, absorb import taxes and duties, and pass those savings to consumers through lower MSRPs, the “instant depreciation” of older units accelerates. This trend forces used car dealers and private sellers to slash prices aggressively to remain competitive against Tesla’s own disruptive new-vehicle pricing strategy.

Subhash Nair
Subhash Nairhttp://www.dsf.my
Written work on dsf.my. @subhashtag on instagram. Autophiles Malaysia on Youtube.
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