The Tesla Model 3 Performance Made Its One Shot Count at This Year's Lightning Lap
Car and Driver
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Tesla Model 3 Performance has set a new benchmark for electric vehicles under $100,000 with its impressive lap time of 2:58.4 at Virginia International Raceway (VIR). Despite its high-performance capabilities, the car's battery limits it to one intense lap before reducing power to preserve components. This limitation is reminiscent of Formula 1 cars from the turbo era, which also required careful management during qualifying laps. The Model 3's Track mode offers a thrilling driving experience, with quick steering responses and powerful regenerative braking, but its thermal management system brings it down just as it approaches the finish line.
During testing, the Model 3 demonstrated exceptional speed and stability on VIR's challenging course. While it showed slight instability in certain high-speed sections compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, its overall performance was remarkable. The car's ability to match or exceed expectations in key corners highlights its potential as a top EV for enthusiasts. However, its reliance on battery management systems means drivers must carefully monitor lap times to avoid power reductions.
K.C. Colwell, Car and Driver's executive editor, led the
Verticals
automotivetech
Originally published on Car and Driver on 2/24/2026