Tesla Model 3
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is a game-changing electric vehicle. With
its generous range at a price that's more accessible to the average consumer,
the Model 3 also offers well-rounded performance, too. The minimalist interior
design is a departure from what most consumers are used to, giving the Model 3
(and its Model Y sibling) a distinct cabin that you won't mistake for anything
else. Driving enthusiasts won't be disappointed, either. The Model 3
Performance with its dual-motor setup and AWD is a bona fide sport sedan with
the moves that rival the best of the breed.
New for the 2021 model year, a wireless charging pad and
USB-C ports are now standard. In October 2020, Tesla announced additional
changes to the 2021 Model 3, including a power-operated trunk, a new set of
available 19-inch wheels, and black exterior trim replacing chrome (to match
the Model Y).
Additionally, Tesla has increased the range of every 2021
Model 3, too. Whereas the base model had a 250-mile range, Tesla now says the
same model will get 263 miles of range. The Performance model moves from 299
miles to a claimed 315 miles, while the long-range model goes from 315 to 353
miles.
The Tesla Model 3 remains one of the most impressive
electric vehicles on the market. Generous range and reasonable prices on
standard and mid-range models mean they're more accessible to the average
consumer. Pricier Performance and Long Range variants, on the other hand, turn
the already sporty Model 3 into a legit performance machine that gleefully
devours corners and pushes you back in your seat with instant acceleration.
Not everything is perfect with the Model 3, however. The
fact that nearly everything is controlled via the massive touchscreen creates a
significant learning curve. Despite the simplified menu layout, there are still
too many submenus to go through to do simple tasks like adjusting the steering
wheel. Also, too much road and tire noise enter the cabin, especially on the
highway. In our testing, we've heard buzzes and rattles when driving over
poorly maintained surfaces.
Perhaps the biggest knock on the Tesla is the inconsistent
Autopilot driver assistance feature. Despite being dubbed one of the most
advanced systems in the market, in our testing it randomly turned off without
warning. The system also didn't bring the Model 3 to a stop when approaching a
line of stopped cars, forcing the driver to intervene and apply the brakes.
Then again, Tesla is always improving its features, so the version of Autopilot
you experience might be different from the ones we've tested.
Range
The Model 3's range on a single charge varies based on the
variant, drivetrain configuration, and the wheel size you choose. The following
figures represent the latest mid-year change Tesla has made, accurate as of
October 2020.
Standard Range Plus RWD: 263 miles (up from 250 miles)
Long Range AWD: 353 miles (up from 315 miles)
Performance AWD: 315 miles (up from 299 miles)
Safety
Standard features on the Model 3 includes forward collision
warning, front and rear automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist,
pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and
Autopilot, Tesla's enhanced adaptive cruise control system with steering
assistance. You can upgrade the Model 3's driver assistance suite to enable the
car to navigate to its destination on Autopilot, perform automatic lane changes,
and detect traffic lights.
Technology
The Model 3 features a massive 15-inch touchscreen that
works as the vehicle's command center. Everything from your climate control
adjustments and media to your speedometer and trip computer is housed in that
display. Tesla's infotainment system is capable of over-the-air updates, allowing
the Model 3 to receive new features and software fixes without needing to go to
a dealer.
Cool Features
Tesla's Smart Summon function allows the Model 3 to drive to
pull out of its parking spot and come to your location autonomously. The system
works via a smartphone app, which enables the car to come to you as long as
you're inside a parking lot or private driveway and within 200 feet. However,
the feature doesn't allow the Model 3 to recognize curbs and sidewalks, so we'd
be extra careful when using it.
Also, unlike non-electric sedans, the Tesla Model 3 has a
15.0-cubic-foot trunk as well as a smaller front trunk for smaller items.
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