2024 Tesla Model 3 Review: Has the Shine Worn Off?

When Tesla debuted the Model S, it undeniably revolutionized the automotive world. It was unprecedented. No electric vehicle (EV) at the time could match its performance, range, or technological prowess. For years, mainstream automakers struggled to even come close to the Model S. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Competitors have not only caught up but in some areas surpassed Tesla, even in its more accessible models. The refreshed 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, once a game-changer, is now facing tougher scrutiny in an increasingly competitive EV market.

I recently spent a few days with the dual-motor 2024 Model 3, equipped with Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” Autopilot system (subscription-based). While my time was limited, it was sufficient to form a solid impression. My takeaway? Consider the Hyundai Ioniq 6 as a compelling alternative.

Side view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland in Space Gray showcasing its sleek profile and updated headlight design.

Delving into the 2024 Model 3 Basics

I vividly remember the anticipation surrounding the 2017 launch of the original Tesla Model 3. It was a pivotal moment, perhaps not as groundbreaking as the Model S, but transformative nonetheless. Finally, Tesla offered a more attainable electric sedan, boasting superior range at a competitive price point. Yet, Tesla took six long years to implement any significant updates. In contrast, traditional luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi would typically introduce entirely new generations of vehicles within that timeframe. Now, the updated Model 3, dubbed the “Highland,” is here, bringing improvements in several areas, but also some steps back in others.

Front three-quarter view of two 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland cars, one in white and one in Space Gray, highlighting the redesigned front fascia and headlights.

Rear three-quarter view of two 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland cars, one in white and one in Space Gray, showing the new taillight design and minimalist rear end.

Close-up of the redesigned headlight of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, emphasizing its slimmer and sharper aesthetic compared to the previous model.

Close-up of the new taillight design of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, illustrating its more modern and upscale appearance.

Front view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland in Space Gray, demonstrating its streamlined and somewhat generic jelly bean shape.

Visually, the Model 3 Highland is undeniably more attractive than its predecessor. The redesigned headlights are sleeker and more angular, the front end is sharper, and the taillights exude a more premium feel. While it still retains a somewhat generic “jelly bean” silhouette, especially in grayscale colors, the updated design is a welcome evolution from the aging 2017 model.

However, stepping inside reveals a largely familiar, and frankly disappointing, interior. I generally avoid harsh criticism of interior design unless it significantly compromises the driving experience. While some may adapt to unconventional layouts, the Model 3’s interior borders on being dangerously flawed. The standard seats are uncomfortable (although the new Model 3 Performance seats are reportedly a significant improvement), the materials throughout feel decidedly low-rent, and the ergonomic choices are genuinely concerning from a safety perspective.

Interior view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland dashboard, highlighting the minimalist design, large touchscreen, and lack of physical controls.

In typical Tesla fashion, the Model 3 eliminates traditional stalks for wipers and side mirror adjustments. Even steering wheel adjustments are absent from the column itself. Virtually every function, without exception, is controlled via the massive central touchscreen. This tablet-style interface is laden with menus and small, smartphone-like icons. While visually similar to an iPad, which is acceptable when stationary, it becomes incredibly distracting and frustrating while driving. Not only does it demand taking your eyes off the road, but it also requires focused attention to accurately tap the small, visually similar icons.

This user interface is arguably the most illogical and irritating I have ever encountered on any device. Compounding the issue, Tesla has moved the gear selector to the touchscreen in the latest Model 3. To engage drive, you must depress the brake and then swipe upwards on a thin bar located on the left side of the screen. Reversing requires a downward swipe. While it functions adequately, on multiple occasions during my brief test, the system failed to register my swipe inputs.

Close-up of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland touchscreen showing the gear selector interface and other virtual controls.

Front interior view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland cabin, emphasizing the minimalist design, lack of traditional gauges, and spacious feel.

Rear interior view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland cabin, showcasing the rear screen and passenger space.

Driver's perspective of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland interior, showing the steering wheel, touchscreen, and clean dashboard layout.

Redundant physical gear selector buttons do exist, but their placement is baffling. They are integrated into the interior lighting panel on the headliner, between the sun visors. Intended as secondary controls, these buttons only illuminate when activated. This means attempting to turn on a dome light while driving could easily result in accidentally pressing a drive mode button, triggering a loud warning beep because the car cannot shift into reverse while in motion. The cabin design gives the impression that the designers have limited real-world driving experience.

Close-up of the overhead console in the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland showing the emergency gear selector buttons integrated into the lighting panel.

Angled view of the overhead console in the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, highlighting the unusual placement of the redundant gear selector buttons.

Wide view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland interior showing the minimalist dashboard, large touchscreen, and overhead console with gear selector buttons.

Driving Dynamics of the 2024 Tesla Model 3

Fortunately, the Model 3 retains its impressive acceleration, offering a welcome distraction from the frustrating controls. The dual electric motors deliver a combined 394 horsepower and 377 lb-ft of torque, launching the Model 3 with surprising force, almost negating the need for the Performance variant. It reaches 60 mph in a brisk 4.2 seconds, just 0.5 seconds behind the more expensive BMW i4 M50. For most drivers, the dual-motor Model 3 offers more than adequate performance, feeling nearly as rapid as the BMW in real-world driving.

Initial impressions of the original Model 3 suggested driving dynamics comparable to a BMW 3 Series, even being touted as among the best sports sedans. Having now driven the updated version, I must disagree. While competent, it falls short of greatness. The steering is excessively sensitive, feeling artificially boosted and exhibiting an unnatural self-centering action. While precise, it lacks feedback, and the overly quick steering ratio makes the car feel twitchy at higher speeds.

The ride quality is firm, bordering on brittle. On smooth roads, it feels stable and composed. However, sharper road imperfections can unsettle this composure. It’s not jarring, but it lacks the refined comfort of rivals like the BMW i4 or Polestar 2, aligning more closely with the Hyundai Ioniq 6 in ride quality. While capable in corners, the driving experience feels too synthetic and detached to be truly engaging for driving enthusiasts. The Model 3 is an acceptable sport sedan, but far from an exceptional one.

Front three-quarter view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland in motion on a winding road, showcasing its handling capabilities.

Side view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland in motion on a highway, highlighting its aerodynamic profile.

Rear three-quarter view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland in motion on a scenic road, emphasizing its sporty stance.

Tesla’s “Autopilot with Full Self-Driving” system deserves mention. In its most comprehensive setting, allowing for maximum self-driving capability, I tested it in various driving scenarios, including city streets, stop-and-go traffic, and highways. For the most part, it functions effectively. It maintains lane positioning accurately, provides clear visual feedback of its perception of the surroundings and actions, can stop for traffic lights, and adeptly manages traffic flow. The system also helpfully explains its decisions, such as changing lanes to maintain a set speed, which is a welcome feature.

However, Autopilot is not flawless. On two occasions, it misidentified lane splits, incorrectly taking highway exits instead of staying straight. Correcting these errors requires forceful steering input, as the system resists deviation. Once overridden, Autopilot disengages entirely and must be manually reactivated. Tesla also needs to refine the throttle response, even in the “Chill” mode, the acceleration from a standstill feels too aggressive. I had to intervene when it attempted to aggressively maneuver around a police car that had pulled over another vehicle. While undeniably impressive and among the leading systems available, GM’s Super Cruise remains a more refined and nuanced autonomous driving experience.

The High Points and Low Points of the Model 3

Undoubtedly, the most significant advantage of the Model 3 is the Tesla Supercharger network. Tesla’s charging infrastructure provides the most seamless public EV charging experience currently available. Simply arrive at a Supercharger station, plug in, and walk away. There’s no need to fumble with accounts, credit cards, payment terminals, screens, or mobile apps. Plug in, and charging commences. This simplicity explains why automakers like Ford and Rivian are adopting the Tesla charging standard. Beyond charging, the Model 3 is undeniably quick and agile in traffic and highway merges. Forward visibility is excellent. The dual wireless phone charging pad is convenient, and the rear screen is sure to impress backseat passengers.

Tesla Supercharger station with multiple stalls and a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland plugged in for charging, highlighting the ease of use of the network.

Close-up of the Tesla Supercharger connector plugged into the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, emphasizing the simple and direct charging process.

Rear seat passengers in a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland interacting with the rear entertainment screen, showcasing a family-friendly feature.

Front seats and dashboard of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, showing the minimalist interior and wireless phone charging pad.

However, the Model 3 has significant drawbacks. The interior materials and overall ambiance feel cheap and under-equipped, especially considering its price point. Even the budget-friendly Hyundai Kona, starting at around $28,000, offers a more pleasant interior. The Model 3’s ergonomics are a constant source of frustration. During my test, I even encountered a sharp edge on the rear passenger door, resulting in a minor cut – perhaps an unintentional nod to the notoriously sharp-edged Cybertruck. The cabin is also noisy at highway speeds, with noticeable wind and tire noise despite the double-pane windows. Finally, the rear car seat LATCH anchors are awkwardly positioned and difficult to access.

Features, Options, and Competition for the Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 occupies a relatively accessible price point within the EV segment, starting at $40,380 before factoring in federal and state incentives. The long-range all-wheel-drive (AWD) model I tested starts at $48,880 before incentives, but comes reasonably well-equipped with features like heated seats, the central touchscreen, rear screen, and other Tesla-specific technologies as standard. Currently, the Model 3 qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act, further enhancing its affordability.

The Model 3 offers a limited options list. Buyers primarily choose powertrain configuration, exterior color, wheel design, and the “Full Self-Driving Capability” package. The latter, despite its misleading name, adds a substantial $8,000 to the price. All exterior colors except Space Gray are extra-cost options, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. My test car, finished in Space Gray with standard wheels and equipped with FSD, had an as-tested price of $57,130.

Exterior view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland in Space Gray, showcasing its standard wheel design and understated color.

Interior view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland showing the touchscreen interface and minimalist dashboard design.

Close-up of the steering wheel and driver's side controls in the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, emphasizing the lack of physical buttons and stalks.

Front seats of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, highlighting the minimalist design and integrated headrests.

Rear seats and passenger area of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland, showing the rear screen and legroom.

The most direct competitor to the Model 3, in terms of price, performance, and overall appeal, is likely the Hyundai Ioniq 6. The BMW i4 offers a more luxurious interior and superior driving dynamics but carries a significantly higher price tag, starting above $60,000 for a dual-motor configuration. The Polestar 2 also approaches the $60,000 mark for an AWD version. In contrast, a fully equipped Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited with dual motors can be had for under $55,000 before incentives. The Ioniq 6’s primary disadvantage compared to the Model 3 is its shorter range, at 270 miles versus the Tesla’s 341 miles. However, Hyundai EVs will gain access to Tesla’s Supercharger network starting in late 2024, mitigating this range concern.

Range, Charging, and Efficiency of the Model 3

With an EPA-estimated range of 341 miles, the Model 3 surpasses most of its competitors. Only significantly more expensive EVs like the Lucid Air and Mercedes EQS offer greater range. During my test, I observed an average efficiency of over 3 miles per kWh, which is commendable.

Charging screen of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland showing charging statistics and energy consumption.

However, charging speed and convenience are arguably more critical than outright range. If an EV can charge quickly and easily, range anxiety becomes less of a factor. Tesla’s Supercharger network excels in this regard. The seamlessness of the Supercharger experience is unmatched. Anyone who has struggled with public charging stations from networks like Electrify America understands the frustration of lengthy connection processes, account issues, and payment problems. Superchargers eliminate these hassles. Simply plug in, charge, and unplug when finished.

Value and Final Verdict on the 2024 Tesla Model 3

The 2024 Tesla Model 3 remains a fundamentally good electric car. It’s quick, handles adequately, and offers impressive range. However, it’s burdened by numerous annoyances. Even unlocking the car can be cumbersome, relying on a sometimes-unreliable mobile app or a keycard that lacks keyless entry functionality. The interior feels surprisingly cheap, reminiscent of a budget car from the 1990s. With the emergence of compelling electric sedans from established automakers, the Model 3’s primary advantages have narrowed to range and charging network access – still significant benefits, but diminishing. As more manufacturers adopt the NACS charging port and gain Supercharger access, even the latter advantage will erode.

Front view of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland in Space Gray parked in an urban setting, showcasing its modern design.

The core strengths of the Model 3 – smooth electric power, decent handling, and zero-emission driving – are also offered by alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 6. While the Ioniq 6 may have slightly less range, it compensates with a more affordable price, a significantly nicer interior, a superior warranty, and a much larger dealer network (over 800 Hyundai dealerships in the U.S. versus around 240 Tesla stores). Subjectively, the Ioniq 6 also boasts a more distinctive and appealing design.

The Model 3’s historical significance in the EV market is undeniable. It was a game-changer upon its debut in 2017. However, competition has caught up, and the Model 3 has lost its unique allure. Unless maximizing range in a compact electric sedan is your absolute priority, it’s increasingly difficult to recommend the Model 3 over its current and future rivals.