Tesla's most affordable offering, the Model 3, is finally getting an update for the first time since its introduction in 2017. Prices have only gone up in the years since the Model 3 joined Tesla's lineup, but the update—called the "Highland" project—aims to reduce costs production while focusing on improving buyer-favorite features. Tesla has significantly more peers this time around including the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and BMW i4, so it will have to make important improvements to stay competitive.
The rendering above was created by Ryan Lugo
New for 2024?
The Model 3 has received a welcome styling refresh for 2024, complete with a sleeker front end, a quieter cabin, and updated standard features. While the changes in the Model 3's styling are small tweaks they make a big impact, and the car looks fresher and more upscale than before. The interior receives updated materials that are said to be of better quality; Tesla also claims to have used more sound-deadening materials and installed more acoustic glass to help drown out road noise. The steering wheel has been redesigned and the steering column sheds blinker and transmission-shifter stalks, while the seats wear a new perforated upholstery and support ventilation for front-seat riders. Rear seat passengers are now treated to their own 8.0-inch display with which to adjust climate controls or even watch Netflix. We expect the updated 2024 Tesla Model 3 to appear on the company's website for ordering before the end of 2023.
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 is expected to start at about $42,000 and go up to about $55,000. The base trim level comes with just one motor driving the rear wheels, but all others have two motors and all-wheel drive. The base rear-wheel-drive model is a good value, but its 272 miles of EPA-estimated driving range may not be enough to eliminate range anxiety for some drivers. We'd recommend the Long Range model that offers an estimated 333 miles of driving per charge. All Model 3s come standard with heated and ventilated front seats, navigation, and Tesla's Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
As with most EVs, the Model 3 gains speed quickly, smoothly, and almost silently, with the electric motor providing a strong punch from a stop. And it's fast—extremely so in some trims. Like all Teslas, the Model 3 carries its battery under the floor, resulting in a low center of gravity. This helps it change direction crisply and feel planted and stable in corners. The steering is accurate and well-weighted, with three different settings that adjust the level of steering effort. The ride is firm without being harsh; without the noise of a gas-powered engine, however, you do hear plenty of road noise inside the cabin as the tires thwack and thrum over pavement imperfections.
Tesla Model 3 60 MPH Time
The 60 mph time for the Model 3 Long Range in our test was 4.1 seconds while the Model 3 Performance reached 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. We have not tested the entry-level Model 3, which comes with a single electric motor and rear-wheel drive, but it is expected to be a bit slower than the all-wheel drive Long Range model.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
Three distinct Model 3 trims are offered, each with a different estimated driving range. The base rear-wheel-drive model is the most affordable, with a claimed range of 272 miles. Upgrading to the Long Range or Performance models increases the Model 3's estimated range to 315 miles for the Performance and an impressive 333 for the Long Range. Of course, this distance isn't easy to achieve, as we found in our long-term Long Range Model 3 test vehicle. The Model 3 offers several different options for charging: Tesla's network of fast-charging stations called Superchargers, adapters for DC public-charging stations, 240- and 120-volt outlets, and a home-charging station.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
The various versions of the Model 3 are rated between 113 MPGe and 138 MPGe by the EPA. Our test vehicle, however, managed only 84 MPGe when we took it on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test. The Model 3 comes standard with aluminum wheels that are covered by plastic aerodynamic hubcaps. We wanted to know how much impact those hubcaps have on the car's driving range, so we tested it and were surprised to find that they helped more than expected. For more information about the Model 3's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
We're not exaggerating when we say that the Tesla Model 3 has an interior unlike any other car on the market today. It's shockingly simple inside, with nearly everything controlled by the monolithic touchscreen in the center of the dashboard. Buttons on the steering wheel control things like the exterior side view mirrors, the position of the steering column, and even the turn signals—and we wish those controls were of the conventional design instead. The Tesla's low, flat floor makes for a spacious and airy feel inside. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, but the rear seats are positioned low and are cramped and uncomfortable; don't expect adults to be able to spend long periods of time in them. Folding the 60/40 split-folding rear seats is simple and expands the trunk space considerably. The Model 3's seatbacks fold flat, too, providing an uninterrupted cargo floor for hauling larger items. With the rear seats folded, the Model 3 provides enough room for 15 carry-on suitcases. There are also generously sized bins and cubbies throughout the cabin.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Navigation, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity are standard, but the Model 3 is, oddly, not available with AM radio or SiriusXM satellite radio. Several internet-streaming radio options are standard. It also can't be equipped with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. To make charging-station layovers more bearable, the Model 3 offers plenty of entertainment options on its central display, including Netflix, YouTube, and a host of arcade games. Mounted to the rear of the center console is an 8.0-inch touchscreen that provides rear-seat passengers access to climate control and infotainment features.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Although we question whether the name Autopilot is misleading, the driver-assist system has one of the best feature sets in the industry, with smooth operation and impressive capabilities such as automatic lane changes. For more information about the Model 3's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard automated emergency braking
Standard lane-departure warning
Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Tesla's overall warranty coverage is among the longest in the EV segment, but it's disappointing that the coverage doesn't include corrosion protection. The Long Range model includes an additional 20,000 miles on the coverage period of its battery and drive components.
Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles
No complimentary scheduled maintenance
