Say Hello To Tesla Model 3, Sedan
Starting at just over $40,000, this is the most affordable offering from the American automaker. Tesla introduced the model in 2017, and we're not expecting significant changes for 2022 compared to last year's model. Tesla Model 3 could inherit the refreshed Model S' yoke steering wheel and upgraded infotainment hardware.
The Model 3 competes against other electric cars and gas-powered competitors in the compact luxury segment. Primary competitors include the Polestar 2, Audi A4, and BMW i4 and more affordable electrics like the Chevrolet Bolt.
Feedback From Drivers
That said, some buyers won't appreciate the massive center touchscreen. Nearly every aspect of the car is controlled through that display; there are only a handful of actual buttons in the cabin. The system carries a significant learning curve compared to more conventional luxury electric cars like the BMW i4 four-door or Audi E-Tron SUV.
On the road, performance is impressive, but some drivers complain about too much tire and road noise infiltrating the cabin. Some even hear buzzes and rattles over broken pavement that hint at Tesla's infamously inconsistent build quality. In addition, drivers had issues with the consistency of Tesla's problematically named Autopilot driver-assist suite. It will occasionally turn off without warning and won't always bring the Model 3 to a stop. Of course, continuous updates and improvements will make a difference, but these issues are worth keeping in mind.
Performance & Range
There are three variants of the Model 3:
- Standard Range Plus,
- Long Range
- Performance.
Entry-level Standard Range Plus models feature a single rear motor and rear-wheel drive, while the other two Model 3s work with dual motors and AWD. The Standard Range cars work with a 54-kWh battery, but if you go for one of the dual-motor variants, those models get an 82-kWh unit.
Looking at performance and range data, Tesla claims 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds for the Standard Range Plus, 4.2 seconds for the Long Range, and 3.1 seconds for the Model 3 Performance. Our testing shows slightly quicker numbers for the Standard Range Plus and Long Range models. Although Tesla hasn't announced range numbers for 2022, we anticipate them to be unchanged compared to the 2021 model.
Tesla Model 3 Range
Standard Range Plus | 263 miles |
Long Range | 353 miles |
Performance | 315 miles |
Tesla Model 3 Specifications
Performance
Engine Name | Motor, Single Electric |
Trim | Standard Range Plus Sedan |
Horsepower | 306 |
Torque | 310 |
Number Of Cylinders | N/A |
Standard MPG | 138/126 |
Transmission | 1 Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Interior
Front Headroom | 40.3 in |
Rear Headroom | 37.7 in |
Front Legroom | 42.7 in |
Rear Legroom | 35.2 in |
Front Shoulder Room | 56.3 in |
Rear Shoulder Room | 54.0 in |
Exterior Dimensions
Length | 184.8 in |
Width | 72.8 in |
Height | 56.8 in |
Wheelbase | 113.2 in |
Ground Clearance | N/A |
Weights and Capacities
Fuel Capacity | N/R |
Cargo Capacity | 19.8 cu-ft |
Curb Weight | 3,582 lb |
Towing Capacity | N/A |
GVWR | N/A |
Payload Capacity | N/A |
Tonnage | N/A |
Warranty
Full Warranty Months | 48 | Full Warranty Miles | 50,000 |
Powertrain Warranty Months | 48 | Powertrain Warranty Miles | 50,000 |
Maintenance Warranty Months | none | Maintenance Warranty Miles | none |
Roadside Warranty Months | 48 | Roadside Warranty Miles | 50,000 |
Corrosion Warranty Months | 48 | Corrosion Warranty Miles | 50,000 |