A short one today about headlights – because this blog isn't only about the things that delight me, but also about the ones that sometimes disappoint.
One of those topics is the matrix headlights in the Tesla. Before I get to my "grievances", a few words of context. The VAG group has excellent matrix headlights – in this category BMW lags behind. Matrix LED in Audi, VW, Cupra or Skoda is simply top tier. They're not only powerful, they also carve out the light beam brilliantly. Sometimes the segments can be a bit slow to switch off, but their output is impressive. This partly comes down to regulations, which require headlight washers above a certain light output measured in lumens.
I have great memories of the matrix headlights in the Superb; the ones in the Octavia we own also reach hundreds of metres, giving excellent visibility.
And how does the Tesla do? The masking is fast and precise – so far nobody has flashed me. But the actual output of the lights is noticeably lower. The beam is shorter, and when driving the DK 50 through the forest near Celestynów, you can simply feel the difference. The Superb and Octavia throw the light further here, which means more time to react to potential obstacles, like foxes darting across the road.
The first thing I noticed when switching from the Superb to the Tesla Model 3 was these headlights – to my eye they're about 20% weaker.
You can't have everything, but it's worth mentioning.