Tesla Model 3 code suggests it could get an upgrade soon — but were the Model S and Model X axed too soon?

• A 16-inch QHD display is coming to updated Model 3
• New upgrades bring it more in line with Model Y
• But demand for used Model S and Model X cars is still strong

A recent dive into the backend configurator assets and Electronic Parts Catalogue of the Tesla Model 3 has revealed that a handful of updates are due to be added in a bid to bring it more in line with the more expensive Model Y.

According to Not a Tesla App, a new black Alcantara-style headliner is due to replace a current grey unit, as requested by customers. In addition to this, the central display is also receiving an upgrade.

The report suggests that the catalogue now lists the 'Display_16_QHD' component, previously reserved only for the Model Y, as an available part on the 2026 Model 3. This means it will increase in size from a 15.4-inch touchscreen to a 16-inch QHD display.

This will bump up the pixel density from 1920x1200 in the current HD version to 2560x1440 in the QHD variant for more impressive visuals.

The backend references discovered by an X user were reportedly in Tesla’s EU and China configurator assets, which suggests that Giga Shanghai will be the first factory to begin rolling out these refreshed interiors, with the European market to follow suit.

Analysis: Welcome updates, but Tesla needs more cars

While it is good news that Tesla continues to focus its efforts on refining both the Model 3 and Model Y, a recent report on the US used car market suggests that demand for the recently discontinued Model S and Model remains high.

According to iSweeCars (via Auto Evolution), the average price of a used Tesla has climbed 4.3% since last September, when the $7,500 tax credit ended. However, the same is not true for other EV brands, which have lost an average of 3.6% in resale value during the same period.

The report states that while all Teslas have seen their resale value increase, the Model S and Model X have experienced the biggest jumps.

The Model S has seen its price increase from $47,226 in September 2025 to $57,306 in January 2026, an 8.5% jump. The Model X has seen an even bigger hike, from $51,973 to $57,306, which represents a 10.3% increase.

Granted, these figures aren’t definitive but they suggest an appetite remains for Tesla’s sleek saloon and practical people carrier. Could it be a case of only missing something when it’s gone or did Tesla hastily pull the plug on its premium cars?

Currently, a number of global automakers are having to rethink their export strategy due to the tariff goalposts constantly shifting. This is resulting in an overall reduction in choice for new electric vehicles in the US.

Many homegrown manufacturers are also rethinking their manufacturing strategy due to a drop in demand for EV technology in general.

But this, and the cancellation of the EV tax credit, could be why the used market seems to be kicking in, with buyers looking to snap up deals from an era where EV choice was greater.

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