The Tesla Model 3 has undeniably shaken up the automotive world. As a disruptor, it’s forced traditional carmakers to rethink their strategies and accelerate their own electric vehicle development. The updated Model 3 takes this disruptive approach even further, particularly with its minimalist interior and tech-forward features. If you’re considering making the switch to electric and the Model 3 is on your radar, you’re likely seeking comprehensive Tesla Model 3 Reviews to help you decide. This in-depth review dives into the refreshed Tesla Model 3, examining its strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up in a rapidly evolving EV market.
Design and Styling: A Sharper Look for the Iconic EV
One of the most immediate changes to the updated Model 3 is its refreshed styling. Tesla has refined the exterior, giving it a more sophisticated and less polarizing appearance.
Exterior Design Updates
The front end, previously described as somewhat “stubby,” has been streamlined with cleaner lines and redesigned, slimmer headlights. This gives the new Model 3 a more mature and aerodynamic look. Around the rear, the taillights are now integrated into the bootlid, contributing to a more cohesive and premium aesthetic. Small but significant improvements, like the redesigned gully around the hatch, now prevent water from running into the boot when opened after rain – a testament to Tesla’s ongoing refinement process.
Tesla Model 3 redesigned front end
Aerodynamics and Efficiency
While the wheels might appear proportionally smaller within the wheel arches, this design choice likely contributes to improved ride quality thanks to deeper tires. More importantly, these subtle aerodynamic tweaks result in the Model 3 achieving Tesla’s lowest drag coefficient yet, at an impressive 0.219Cd. This enhanced aerodynamic efficiency directly translates to improved range and overall energy consumption, key factors for any EV owner.
Interior and Technology: Minimalism and Innovation
Stepping inside the updated Tesla Model 3 reveals an interior that doubles down on minimalism, pushing the boundaries of automotive cabin design.
Minimalist Interior and Controls
The most striking aspect of the Model 3’s interior remains the absence of a traditional instrument cluster in front of the driver. All essential driving information, including speed, is displayed on the central touchscreen. Taking minimalism a step further, Tesla has removed the indicator stalks. Turn signals are now controlled by buttons on the steering wheel, a design choice previously seen in high-end sports cars like Ferraris.
While innovative, this steering wheel control system has its drawbacks. Navigating turn signals, especially when making quick turns at roundabouts, can become unnecessarily complicated. Similarly, wiper controls are also integrated into the steering wheel, requiring a combination of button presses and touchscreen menus to adjust wiper speed. Adjusting mirrors also necessitates navigating through the central touchscreen, further embedding all vehicle controls within the digital interface.
Despite these unconventional control placements, the lack of an instrument binnacle is something many drivers adapt to quickly, with speed easily monitored from the central screen. However, the absence of a head-up display in a vehicle in this price range remains a notable omission for some, as it could offer a more intuitive way to access driving information.
Tesla Model 3 panoramic glass roof showcasing minimalist interior
Infotainment System and Features
Tesla’s infotainment system remains a central pillar of the Model 3 experience. While it doesn’t support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, it offers Bluetooth connectivity for calls and a suite of native apps for music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. Tesla prioritizes its own in-built navigation and media players, encouraging users to stay within its ecosystem. Workarounds for smartphone integration exist within owner communities, but they aren’t seamless solutions.
The infotainment system is generally responsive and logically organized. It also includes playful features like built-in games, including a steering wheel-controlled buggy racer and a sketchpad app, which can be entertaining while waiting for the car to charge. The “Emissions” app, featuring customizable horn and indicator sounds (including, humorously, fart noises), adds a touch of Tesla’s unique brand personality.
However, some aspects of the infotainment can be less refined. The horn, for instance, emits a rather basic “toot” when locking and unlocking, which can feel out of sync with the car’s premium positioning. Furthermore, the “Autopilot” driver-assistance system, while capable of lane keeping and maintaining distance, can be less helpful in real-world driving scenarios, sometimes disengaging unexpectedly during lane changes.
Tesla Model 3 phone charging pads and minimalist console
Rear Passenger Experience
The updated Model 3 enhances the rear passenger experience with a new screen located between the front seats. This rear display allows passengers to control climate settings and access entertainment apps like Netflix, Disney+, Twitch, and YouTube. Bluetooth headphone connectivity ensures a quiet and personalized entertainment experience for rear occupants, making long journeys more enjoyable.
Tesla Model 3 rear screen entertainment system
Driving Performance and Handling: Fun and Refined
Despite its tech-centric focus, the Tesla Model 3 delivers a compelling driving experience, blending performance with surprising comfort and agility.
Performance and Acceleration
The Model 3 offers brisk acceleration across its range. The rear-wheel-drive version achieves 0-60mph in a respectable 5.8 seconds, while the dual-motor Long Range variant significantly cuts that time to a Porsche 911-rivalling 4.2 seconds. While a high-performance “Performance” model is anticipated, even the current versions offer ample speed for most drivers.
Ride and Handling
Beyond outright speed, the Model 3 excels in ride quality and handling. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride during everyday driving while remaining composed and controlled when tackling winding roads. The steering is nicely weighted and responsive, contributing to an engaging and sporty driving feel without being overly aggressive.
Noise and Comfort
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 can become noticeable. The seats are comfortable, and the driving position is generally good, although some taller rear passengers may find the rear seats positioned low to the floor, leading to a knees-up seating posture.
Range, Charging, and Practicality: Addressing Range Anxiety
Electric vehicle practicality hinges on range and charging infrastructure, and the Model 3 performs strongly in these critical areas.
Real-world Range and Efficiency
The Model 3 boasts an official range of 318 miles for the base rear-wheel-drive model and an impressive 390 miles for the Long Range all-wheel-drive version. Real-world range, as with any EV, is influenced by driving style and environmental conditions. However, the Model 3’s detailed energy data menus and accurate range predictions provide drivers with confidence and minimize range anxiety. Efficiency is also a strong point, with test drives demonstrating exceptional energy consumption figures, exceeding 5 miles per kWh in some instances.
Charging Infrastructure
Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, comprising over 12,000 chargers across Europe, is a significant advantage. Model 3 owners benefit from convenient and rapid charging, adding up to 172 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes at Supercharger locations. Rumors of upcoming Supercharger upgrades suggest even faster charging speeds may be on the horizon, further enhancing convenience.
Practical Considerations
The Model 3 offers a surprisingly spacious boot with additional underfloor storage, along with front trunk (“frunk”) space, enhancing its practicality for everyday use. Heated rear seats and multiple USB-C ports throughout the cabin add to passenger comfort and convenience.
Tesla Model 3 studio shot showcasing design
Competition and Pricing: Navigating the EV Market
The EV market is becoming increasingly competitive, and the Model 3 faces strong rivals from both established automakers and emerging brands.
Market Rivals
While the Model 3 excels in many areas, compelling alternatives are available. The Polestar 4, BMW i4, Polestar 2, and Kia EV6 all offer comparable range and features in a similar price bracket. Chinese manufacturers like BYD, with models like the Seal, are also entering the market with competitive pricing and impressive specifications, putting pressure on Tesla and established European brands.
Pricing and Value
Tesla’s pricing strategy can be dynamic, with price adjustments occurring relatively frequently to maintain competitiveness. While this can be advantageous for new buyers, it can impact resale values for existing owners. The entry price for the Model 3 is competitive, but the Long Range version carries a significant premium. Potential buyers should carefully consider their needs and budget in the context of the evolving EV market landscape.
Downsides and Quirks: Areas for Improvement
Despite its many strengths, the Tesla Model 3 isn’t without its quirks and areas where improvements could be made.
Control System Quirks
The relocation of turn signals and wiper controls to the steering wheel and touchscreen, while contributing to the minimalist aesthetic, can be less intuitive and ergonomically sound than traditional stalks. These unconventional control placements may require an adjustment period for drivers accustomed to conventional car controls.
Autopilot Limitations
While marketed as a driver-assistance system, the standard “Autopilot” in the Model 3 has limitations. Its lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control functions are useful on highways, but its lane-changing assistance can be hesitant and sometimes disengages unexpectedly. Drivers should be aware of Autopilot’s capabilities and limitations and maintain vigilance while driving.
Infotainment and Other Minor Issues
The lack of native Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support might be a drawback for users heavily invested in those ecosystems. While workarounds exist, seamless smartphone integration isn’t natively supported. Minor details like the basic horn sound and the low positioning of rear seats are further points to consider, although these are relatively minor compared to the overall package.
Tesla Model 3 interior front cabin view
Conclusion: A Solid EV Choice, But Not For Everyone
The updated Tesla Model 3 represents a significant step forward for an already impressive electric vehicle. Its enhanced styling, improved efficiency, refined ride, and access to the Supercharger network make it a compelling option in the EV market. However, its minimalist interior with touchscreen-centric controls and the quirks of its driver-assistance system may not appeal to all drivers, particularly those who prioritize traditional automotive interfaces and a more conventional driving experience.
For tech-savvy buyers seeking a high-performing, efficient, and technologically advanced EV, the Model 3 remains a top contender. However, those considering alternatives like the BMW i4, Polestar 2, or Kia EV6 will find strong competition offering different blends of features and driving dynamics. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and preferences in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.
