Tesla is shaking up the electric car market just as the federal EV tax credit is about to expire. Now, shoppers eyeing the Model 3 Performance can score an unbeatable lease offer, enjoy any color—including premium Ultra Red—at no extra cost, and still get the high-demand white interior with the full $7,500 federal tax credit. Here’s a breakdown of everything included and why this might be the best time to drive away in Tesla’s quickest sports sedan.
Why Tesla Is Offering Unprecedented Incentives Right Now
With the federal EV tax credit in its final quarter, Tesla is pulling out all the stops to boost Model 3 sales. The company has stacked multiple incentives on its flagship sedan, including:
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0% APR financing for buyers who purchase Full Self-Driving (FSD), or 2.49% APR for those opting out of FSD
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Free Supercharging for 18 months—a cost-saving perk for early adopters
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Free FSD transfer if you own a previous Tesla and want to upgrade to a new Model 3
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Free color upgrades, including special shades like Ultra Red, typically a $2,000 add-on
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One free option upgrade available on inventory units
But the latest centerpiece is the Model 3 Performance lease deal that gets even the most luxurious configurations under the $55,000 price cap required for the full tax credit.
Model 3 Performance: The Lease Offer in Detail
Monthly Payments, Down Payment, and What You Get
Tesla has announced a promotional lease for the Model 3 Performance:
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$3,000 down at signing
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$699 per month (with $7,500 tax credit applied)
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Included perks: Any color free, white interior eligible, 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds, free Supercharging for 18 months
This offer allows buyers to combine high-end specs—like the stunning Ultra Red paint (a $2,000 upgrade) and the white interior (usually only included at higher price points)—and stay within the IRS’s price limits for the federal tax credit.
How Does It Stack Up Against Typical Lease Costs?
The average car lease payment in the US is $745/month, making the Model 3 Performance lease a clear leader—especially considering its acceleration and features. For sports sedan enthusiasts or drivers seeking a luxurious EV with top-tier tech, this deal is hard to beat.
Unlocking the Full $7,500 Federal Tax Credit
Tesla’s promotions make the most powerful Model 3 eligible for the federal tax credit by pricing it just below the $55,000 MSRP threshold. Thanks to:
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Free premium color upgrades
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White interior no longer pushing the price above the limit
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All buyers taking delivery before September 30, 2025 can claim the credit before it is discontinued
This combination essentially gives buyers a $7,500 bonus on top of all the other stacked perks.
All Current Model 3 Promotions & Incentives (2025)
| Incentive | Details |
|---|---|
| 0% APR w/ FSD purchase or transfer | For buyers choosing Full Self-Driving |
| 2.49% APR financing | Standard rate without FSD |
| $299/mo lease for Model 3 RWD | For entry-level rear-wheel drive |
| $699/mo lease for Model 3 Performance | For top trim, with federal tax credit |
| Free Supercharging | 18 months on Model 3 |
| Free FSD transfer | Upgrade from existing Tesla |
| Free color upgrades | Any color, including premium shades |
| One free option upgrade | On selected inventory units |
These deals apply to both purchases and leases, making this the most extensive promotion Tesla has offered for the Model 3 range.
Why Choose the Tesla Model 3 Performance Now?
Performance
With a 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds, the Model 3 Performance outpaces many luxury sedans costing twice as much. Combined with access to the latest FSD technology and Tesla’s robust Supercharging network, it’s the benchmark for affordable high-performance EVs.
Style and Personalization
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Ultra Red, Pearl White, Deep Blue, Midnight Silver, Stealth Grey—all included free this quarter
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White or Black interior both now eligible for all credit and promotion perks
A Value Leader Against Rivals
Competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N may offer similar performance, but at higher price points, slower acceleration, and without comparable nationwide incentive stacking. For sports sedan fans, Tesla’s deal offers clear technological and practical advantages.
Answering Buyer FAQs
Can I combine all the offers?
Yes, Tesla is stacking all current incentives for the Model 3 Performance—free colors, free FSD transfer, tax credit, financing, and Supercharging. Check with your local Tesla center for any delivery eligibility requirements.
Is it possible to get this lease for a Model 3 RWD or Long Range?
The $299/month lease applies to the RWD model but doesn’t include as many free upgrades. Only the Performance trim gets the suite of offers including any color, free Supercharging, and the full tax credit.
When does the federal tax credit expire?
Buyers need to take delivery before September 30, 2025, to guarantee eligibility for the $7,500 federal credit.
What is the process to lease a Model 3 Performance with all incentives?
Order online or through a Tesla store. Applying these promotions brings you under the price cap and activates the federal credit on your paperwork.
Competing Against the Best: Tesla vs Hyundai Ioniq 6 N
The freshly announced Hyundai Ioniq 6 N aims straight at the Model 3 Performance, but comes in at a higher price with slightly lower specs. For buyers looking before the tax credit sunset, Tesla offers a rare blend of affordability, speed, features, and now—extra style for no extra charge.
This Quarter’s Best Sports Sedan Deal
These stacking promotions mean that even as the federal tax credit approaches its end, buyers can still access one of the world’s top electric sports sedans at a lease payment lower than most average cars. The Model 3 Performance is as fast as sedans three times the cost, and now comes in premium colors and luxury interiors for free.
