Tesla appears to be preparing a significant interior refresh for the 2026 Model 3, with backend code discovered in European and Chinese configurators pointing to two highly anticipated upgrades.
A well-known Tesla community researcher Berkant on X flagged new internal labels connected to 2026 Model 3 VINs.
IN3PB code and black Alcantara-style headliner
One of the key additions is an interior code listed as “IN3PB,” expanded in internal references as “Interior 3 Premium Black.” In those same assets, the code is tied to a black Alcantara-style headliner for the Model 3 Premium and Performance trims, replacing the light grey material used today.
Owners have long pointed out that a dark cabin with a grey headliner feels visually inconsistent, and the change appears aimed at addressing that criticism. The new finish is described as a darker, more uniform fabric that matches the rest of the black interior rather than standing out overhead. For buyers who prefer a sportier look, this may be a welcome shift.
16-inch QHD center display in EPC
In parallel, the Tesla Electronic Parts Catalog now lists a new component referenced as a 16‑inch QHD display for the Model 3. Internal naming in supporting material links this screen to updated 2026 builds, with some entries marked in green, a status that usually indicates an active or soon-to-be-active part.
The screen aligns with the 16‑inch QHD unit already introduced on the updated Model Y in China and other markets. That panel offers 2560×1440 resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio and slimmer bezels compared with the earlier 1920×1200, 16:10 display. This upgrade is expected to bring crisper graphics and a slightly different visual layout, although Tesla has not detailed any new software features tied to the larger size.
Tesla rolled out a black headliner and the 16‑inch QHD screen first on the Model Y, starting in China in early 2026 and then expanding to other regions. Since the Model 3 and Model Y share much of their hardware, many in the industry anticipated that the sedan would follow once supply chains and tooling were ready.
Retrofit potential and limits
Some aftermarket and service sources report that the 16‑inch QHD screen can already be fitted as a plug‑and‑play part on refreshed Model 3 “Highland” vehicles. Pricing for that component has been quoted around $1,320 in some regions, based on parts listings and installer information. Still, this path appears viable mainly for Highland cars, since earlier Model 3 versions use different wiring harnesses and may not support the new display without deeper changes.
Tesla has not issued a public statement on the IN3PB interior or the 16‑inch Model 3 display, and the options do not yet appear on retail configurators. However, the company often loads new parts and option codes into internal tools weeks or months before they reach production cars, according to past changes tracked by owners and repair centers.
Industry observers expect the black headliner and larger screen to reach 2026 Model 3 Premium and Performance builds first, in line with how the Model Y rollout focused on higher trims. The timing would also sit alongside current Model 3 promotions in Europe, including trade‑in bonuses and low‑rate financing that Tesla is using to keep demand steady as it refreshes features.
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