The Tesla Model 3 has long been the standard-bearer for electric vehicles, a car that shook up the automotive world and brought EVs into the mainstream. With the latest iteration of the Model 3, Tesla aims to solidify its position, boasting refreshed styling, enhanced technology, and improved range. But in an increasingly crowded EV market, does the updated Tesla Model 3 still reign supreme? We delve into a comprehensive Tesla 3 Review to see if it lives up to the hype and whether it remains the compelling choice it once was.
The original Tesla Model 3 was revolutionary for its minimalist interior and focus on technology, sometimes at the expense of traditional car features. The updated model takes this ethos even further. Gone are the indicator stalks, replaced by buttons on the steering wheel – a design choice previously seen in high-end sports cars like Ferraris. While this may seem futuristic, the practicality is questionable. Imagine navigating a roundabout and needing to indicate while the steering wheel is turned; the button placement becomes far from intuitive. This design quirk might explain some stereotypes about Tesla drivers and their, shall we say, unique indicator usage.
Similarly, wiper controls are now integrated into the steering wheel and touchscreen. A quick press for a single wipe, a long press for screen wash, and a touchscreen menu for speed adjustment. While manual adjustment is welcome given the sometimes overzealous automatic wipers, accessing these basic functions through a touchscreen can be distracting and less convenient than traditional stalks, especially in sudden downpours. Adjusting mirrors also requires navigating the touchscreen, a step away from the immediate adjustability of physical controls.
However, the lack of an instrument binnacle, a common point of contention, is less of an issue in practice. Speed can be easily noted from the central screen with a quick glance. Yet, the absence of a head-up display in a car at this price point is puzzling. Projecting key driving information onto the windshield would seamlessly solve the information display debate and enhance driver focus.
Connectivity also presents a mixed bag. While Bluetooth for calls and native apps for streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music are present, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are notably absent. Tesla pushes users towards its in-built media and navigation, a somewhat restrictive approach in an era of smartphone integration. Workarounds exist, but they are not as seamless as native integration. The car’s locking and unlocking sound, a rather unrefined horn toot, also feels out of place in a vehicle aiming for premium status. On a lighter note, the inclusion of the “Emissions” app, featuring various…sound effects, including fart noises for indicators, will undoubtedly amuse children, though its broader appeal might be limited.
Tesla’s “Autopilot,” even in its basic form, can be frustrating. While it maintains lane position and follows the car ahead on motorways, its lane change assist is less than helpful. Indicating to overtake often results in Autopilot disengaging rather than assisting with the maneuver. For many drivers, this renders the system largely unusable in real-world overtaking scenarios.
Despite these quirks, the Tesla Model 3 retains its appeal in several crucial areas. The updated styling is undeniably more refined. The front end, previously described as “stubby,” now features cleaner lines, slimmer headlights, and a more streamlined aesthetic. The rear lights are integrated into the bootlid, creating a more cohesive and premium look. Practical improvements include a redesigned hatch that prevents rainwater from entering the boot – a welcome fix that highlights Tesla’s relative youth as a car manufacturer.
Aerodynamic enhancements contribute to the Model 3 achieving Tesla’s lowest drag coefficient yet (0.219Cd), boosting efficiency and range. Performance remains a Tesla hallmark. The rear-wheel-drive Model 3 achieves 0-60mph in a brisk 5.8 seconds, while the dual-motor Long Range version shaves that down to a Porsche 911 Carrera 4-rivalling 4.2 seconds. A future Performance variant is highly anticipated and expected to break the sub-four-second barrier.
Beyond outright speed, the Model 3 excels in ride and handling. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. It absorbs road imperfections effectively for comfortable cruising while maintaining composure in corners thanks to firm dampers. The steering is well-weighted, contributing to a sporty and engaging driving experience that is accessible and not intimidating. Motorway driving is refined with reduced road noise, although wet weather wheel arch noise remains noticeable.
Tesla’s Supercharger network, with over 12,000 chargers across Europe, remains a significant advantage. The Model 3 can gain up to 172 miles of range in just 15 minutes at these fast chargers, with potential for even quicker charging speeds in future upgrades. Range figures are impressive, with the base rear-wheel-drive model offering 318 miles and the Long Range version boasting a substantial 390 miles. Real-world range is dependent on driving style and conditions, but the Model 3’s energy consumption data and range predictions are remarkably accurate and efficient, often exceeding 5 miles per kWh in efficient driving.
However, competition is intensifying. The Polestar 4 and the BYD Seal are compelling rivals offering similar range and technology at comparable prices. BYD, in particular, represents the growing challenge from Chinese EV manufacturers, with aggressive pricing strategies that put pressure on Tesla. Tesla’s history of sudden price cuts, while beneficial to new buyers, can negatively impact resale values and frustrate recent purchasers. This price volatility, coupled with the aggressive pricing from Chinese competitors, creates uncertainty in the EV market.
Despite infotainment quirks and the aforementioned gaseous features, the system is generally responsive and well-organized. Tesla’s in-car entertainment, including games and apps, remains a hit, especially with families. Rear passengers benefit from a new screen for entertainment and climate control, offering streaming apps and Bluetooth headphone connectivity for quieter journeys.
Other positives include a user-friendly mobile app, a minimalist yet attractive cabin with customizable trim, comfortable seats, a spacious boot with additional storage, heated rear seats, and ample USB-C ports. The phone holder is conveniently positioned and includes wireless fast charging. Rear seat comfort is slightly compromised for taller passengers due to the low seat base.
Tesla Model 3 Review: The Verdict
The updated Tesla Model 3 is undoubtedly a step forward from its predecessor, refining the design, enhancing technology, and maintaining its impressive performance and range. However, some design choices, particularly the control implementation through touchscreens and steering wheel buttons, may not appeal to all drivers. While Tesla’s ecosystem and Supercharger network remain compelling advantages, intensifying competition from rivals offering similar capabilities at competitive prices means the Model 3 no longer has the EV market entirely to itself.
For Tesla loyalists, the updated Model 3 will likely reaffirm their brand preference. However, for those open to other options, compelling alternatives like the BMW i4, Polestar 2 and Kia EV6 deserve serious consideration. The Tesla Model 3 remains a strong contender in the EV space, but buyers should weigh its unique strengths and weaknesses against a rapidly evolving competitive landscape before making a decision.
