The Tesla Model 3 has undeniably shaken up the automotive world. It’s not just a car; it’s a statement. A friend recently approached me, seeking advice on a company car. With a decent budget and a preference for family SUVs, he initially dismissed electric vehicles, citing concerns about range for occasional long drives. This common misconception highlights a crucial point: many people are unaware of the significant strides electric cars have made. Modern EVs, like the updated Tesla Model 3 2024, often boast ranges exceeding 300 miles on a single charge and can rapidly replenish their batteries at fast charging stations in about 30 minutes.
I suggested a few compelling EV options to my friend. While the Tesla Model Y has its merits, I steered clear, mentioning a perhaps controversial opinion: “Owning a Tesla can sometimes signal that you’re not deeply invested in cars as machines, and maybe not the most skilled driver. It can, fairly or unfairly, suggest a certain naiveté.”
My friend’s response was insightful: “Oh, so Tesla drivers are becoming the new stereotype, like BMW and Audi drivers?”
Reflecting on this, I recalled a recent encounter with a Tesla driver who, without signaling, pulled out abruptly in front of me, requiring me to brake sharply, before making a left turn with continued indicator apathy. “You could look at it that way,” I conceded.
This isn’t to diminish Tesla’s monumental achievements. The company’s rapid rise and transformative impact on the automotive industry are undeniable. Tesla is the quintessential disruptor. However, its identity as a tech-centric company rather than a traditional automaker means its customer base often leans more towards technology enthusiasts than hardcore car aficionados.
The revamped Tesla Model 3 2024 is poised to ignite excitement among these tech-minded consumers. It doubles down on Tesla’s unique approach, further distancing itself from conventional car manufacturing norms. The previous Model 3 was already known for its minimalist interior, ditching the traditional instrument cluster in favor of a central touchscreen display for all driving information, including speed.
But even that model retained an indicator stalk. Not anymore. In the 2024 Tesla Model 3, turn signals are now activated via buttons on the steering wheel.
Tesla Model 3 steering wheel controls and minimalist dashboard
This steering wheel button control isn’t entirely novel; Ferrari has employed it for years. Unfortunately, Tesla hasn’t addressed the inherent usability issue: when making a right turn at a roundabout and needing to signal left for your exit, the crossed-up steering wheel makes indicator operation unnecessarily cumbersome. This design choice might shed light on the behavior of the Tesla driver I encountered.
Wiper controls are also integrated into the steering wheel, using a single button. A quick press initiates a single wipe, a long press activates the screen wash, and a menu on the central touchscreen (same size, thinner bezel) appears for adjusting wiper speed. This manual control is a welcome feature, as the automatic wipers in the previous model were, to put it mildly, oversensitive. During my test drive, manual adjustment proved far more effective, prompting me to question the wisdom of burying wiper speed control within a touchscreen menu. Imagine the simplicity of a dedicated stalk or dial.
The same logic applies to mirror adjustments, which also require navigating through the touchscreen. While I personally don’t miss the instrument binnacle – I could easily monitor my speed peripherally – I echo the calls for a head-up display. For a vehicle positioned as premium, the absence of even an optional head-up display, projecting essential driver information onto the windshield, is perplexing and feels like a missed opportunity to enhance both safety and convenience.
Tesla Model 3 panoramic glass roof showcasing spacious interior
Tesla Model 3 rear seats with ample legroom
Tesla Model 3 phone charging pads in the center console
Another point of contention is the lack of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. While Bluetooth connectivity handles calls and native apps cater to services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal, Tesla insists on users embracing its proprietary media and navigation ecosystem. Owner forums suggest workarounds exist, but they are less than ideal for seamless smartphone integration.
Furthermore, the Model 3 emits a horn chirp when locking and unlocking, a feature that feels decidedly un-premium and out of sync with its futuristic image. One might be relieved it’s not a fart sound, considering the touchscreen’s “Emissions” app, which offers a variety of simulated flatulence noises. Amusingly, this feature can even be configured to play a fart sound when indicating, much to the delight of my eight-year-old son (and likely no one else).
Speaking of less-than-refined features, “Autopilot” remains a source of frustration. My test car lacked the “Full Self-Driving” package (which, realistically, is far from fully autonomous on UK roads), but even the basic Autopilot iteration proved underwhelming. While it effectively maintains lane position on motorways and keeps a set distance from the vehicle ahead, its lane-changing assistance is counterintuitive. When indicating to overtake, Autopilot often fails to recognize the intended gap and disengages abruptly as you initiate the maneuver. Ultimately, I opted to deactivate it entirely.
Despite these criticisms, it’s important to clarify: I didn’t dislike the Tesla Model 3 2024. In fact, in several key areas, it excels, and the updated version represents a tangible improvement over its predecessor.
The styling, for instance, is significantly more appealing. The previous Model 3’s front end could appear somewhat insect-like. The redesign rectifies this with cleaner lines, the removal of fussy details, and sleeker, slimmer headlights. The rear lights are now seamlessly integrated into the boot lid, resulting in a more cohesive and attractive aesthetic overall.
The redesigned hatch also addresses a practical flaw. Opening the boot after rain no longer results in water cascading into the cargo area, thanks to a newly implemented gully that channels water away. This seemingly basic oversight in the original design underscores Tesla’s relative youth as a car manufacturer.
Tesla Model 3 studio shot showcasing updated front design
Tesla Model 3 studio shot highlighting the side profile and wheels
Tesla Model 3 studio shot emphasizing the rear design and taillights
Tesla Model 3 studio shot of the interior, showing minimalist design
The wheel sizes might appear slightly undersized, seemingly lost within the wheel arches. However, this likely contributes to the improved ride quality. Aerodynamic refinements have resulted in the Tesla Model 3 2024 achieving the lowest drag coefficient of any Tesla model to date (0.219Cd), enhancing efficiency and extending range.
Performance is offered in two compelling variants: quick and very quick. The rear-wheel-drive Model 3 2024 accelerates from 0-60mph in a respectable 5.8 seconds, a benchmark comparable to mid-1990s BMW M3s. The dual-motor Long Range version slashes this sprint time to a blistering 4.2 seconds, matching the pace of a Porsche 911 Carrera 4. A future Performance variant with sub-four-second 0-60mph times seems highly probable.
Beyond sheer acceleration, the Tesla Model 3 2024 excels in ride quality and handling. The car feels responsive and agile, with a suspension system that strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. It’s pleasantly compliant during cruising, yet the firm dampers maintain composure when tackling winding roads. The steering is well-weighted, contributing to a genuinely sporty and engaging driving experience, without feeling overly demanding in its base configuration.
While enjoyable on back roads, the Model 3 is equally adept at motorway cruising. Road noise levels are generally low, reportedly improved by up to 30% compared to the previous model. However, in wet conditions, tire roar from the wheel arches remains noticeable.
Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, boasting over 12,000 locations across Europe, is a significant advantage. The Model 3 2024 can gain up to 172 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes at these chargers, with rumors of even faster charging speeds on the horizon with upcoming Supercharger upgrades.
The official range figures are also impressive: 318 miles for the entry-level rear-wheel-drive model and a remarkable 390 miles for the all-wheel-drive Long Range version I tested (at a £10,000 premium, bringing the price to £49,990).
Range accuracy is dependent on driving style and environmental factors, but the Model 3’s comprehensive data menus and range prediction gauges are remarkably accurate. My test car indicated 300 miles of range at the start of a journey, and after 91 miles of primarily motorway driving, it still projected 198 miles remaining, suggesting both realistic range estimates and excellent efficiency.
Another 54-mile journey yielded an average consumption of 181 watt-hours per mile, equivalent to 5.5 miles per kWh. Achieving over 4 miles per kWh in a car of this size is commendable; exceeding 5 miles per kWh is exceptional, highlighting the Tesla Model 3 2024‘s efficiency.
While some electric rivals now offer comparable official ranges and price points – the upcoming Polestar 4, for example, closely matches the Model 3 Long Range in both aspects – Tesla faces increasing competition, particularly from Chinese manufacturers. The BYD Seal, for instance, starts at £45,695 and boasts a 354-mile range.
A word of caution regarding Tesla’s pricing strategy: the company’s tendency to implement sudden, unannounced price cuts (to compete with the influx of affordable Chinese EVs) can be frustrating for recent buyers who find their new car depreciating rapidly.
And for every price reduction Tesla makes, Chinese automakers can likely match it. Recent reports highlight the aggressive pricing of Chinese EVs in their domestic market, suggesting a potential price war that Western carmakers might struggle to win. This is partly due to significant government subsidies enjoyed by Chinese EV manufacturers, potentially exceeding those received by Tesla.
Despite minor grievances regarding the infotainment system (and its more whimsical features), it generally functions effectively – responsive and logically organized. The built-in games, including a steering wheel-controlled off-road buggy racer, are a hit with both children and adults. Apps like Sketchpad and Tracks (for music creation) further enhance the in-car entertainment options.
Tesla Model 3 rear screen for passenger entertainment
Rear passengers are well catered to, thanks to a new screen positioned between the front seats. This screen not only allows rear occupants to control the climate but also provides access to streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Twitch, and YouTube. Bluetooth headphone connectivity ensures a peaceful cabin environment.
Other positive aspects include a highly responsive mobile app and a minimalist yet attractive cabin design featuring a new LED strip across the dashboard and customizable fascia panels. The angled phone holder with wireless charging is a thoughtful touch, even if phones can get a little warm during prolonged use.
Tesla Model 3 driving on a scenic road
The Tesla Model 3 2024 offers comfortable seats, a good driving position (albeit slightly high for a sedan), a surprisingly spacious boot with additional underfloor storage (plus front trunk), heated rear seats, and ample USB-C ports throughout the cabin. The only minor rear passenger complaint is the low seat base, potentially causing discomfort for taller individuals.
In conclusion, while the updated Tesla Model 3 2024 represents a significant improvement upon an already strong foundation, its unique quirks and design choices might not resonate with everyone. For dedicated Tesla enthusiasts, it remains the undisputed leader. However, for those open to alternatives, compelling options like the BMW i4, Polestar 2, and Kia EV6 warrant consideration.
As for my friend seeking a company car? He has scheduled a test drive at a Kia dealership to explore the new EV9.
