A friend recently sought my advice on selecting a company car, with a decent budget and a preference for family SUVs. He dismissed electric vehicles (EVs) outright, citing concerns about range for occasional long drives. This common misconception highlights a knowledge gap about the advancements in electric car technology, particularly within Tesla’s offerings. Many modern EVs, including the updated New Tesla Model 3, now comfortably exceed 300 miles on a single charge and can rapidly replenish their batteries at fast charging stations in around 30 minutes.
While I suggested several compelling EV options, I hesitated to immediately recommend the Tesla Model Y, despite its merits. My reservation stemmed from a certain perception associated with Tesla ownership. “Owning a Tesla,” I explained, “often projects an image of someone who prioritizes technology over traditional automotive appreciation, perhaps even lacking fundamental driving etiquette.” This perception, whether accurate or not, is a growing sentiment.
“So,” my friend inquired, “are Tesla drivers becoming the new stereotype, akin to BMW and Audi drivers?”
Reflecting on this, a recent encounter with a Tesla driver flashed through my mind. The driver had pulled out abruptly in front of me, forcing me to brake sharply, and subsequently navigated a left turn without any indication. “It’s certainly a perspective,” I conceded.
This is not to diminish Tesla’s monumental achievements. The American company’s rapid ascent and disruptive influence on the automotive industry are undeniable. Tesla has revolutionized the landscape, pushing traditional manufacturers to accelerate their own EV development. However, Tesla’s identity as a technology company first and foremost shapes its customer base, attracting individuals who are often more tech-savvy than car-centric.
The updated new Tesla Model 3, the focus of this review, exemplifies this “not like other carmakers” ethos, taking it to an even more pronounced level. The previous Model 3 was already known for its minimalist interior, dispensing with a traditional instrument cluster in favor of a central touchscreen displaying all driving information, including speed.
This minimalist design philosophy is further amplified in the new Tesla Model 3 by the removal of indicator stalks. Turn signals, now activated by buttons on the steering wheel, represent a bold step away from conventional automotive controls. While this steering wheel button integration is not unprecedented – Ferrari has employed similar systems for years – Tesla has inherited the inherent ergonomic challenges. Indicating left after a right turn at a roundabout, with the steering wheel rotated, becomes unnecessarily cumbersome. This design choice might inadvertently contribute to the anecdotal observations about Tesla driver behavior.
Wiper controls have also migrated to the steering wheel. A single button handles wiper functions: a quick press for a single wipe, a long press for screenwash, and a touchscreen menu for adjusting wiper speed. While manual speed adjustment is welcome, especially given the previous model’s overzealous automatic wipers, navigating a touchscreen menu for such a basic function seems less than ideal. Similarly, adjusting mirrors also requires touchscreen interaction.
Despite these control interface quirks, the absence of a traditional instrument binnacle is not inherently problematic. While some automotive journalists express concerns, glancing at the central screen for speed information becomes intuitive with minimal adaptation. However, the absence of a head-up display in a vehicle positioned as premium remains perplexing. Projecting essential driver information onto the windscreen, even as an optional feature, would seamlessly address many of the interface concerns.
Another area where Tesla diverges from conventional automotive norms is infotainment system compatibility. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are not supported in the new Tesla Model 3. While Bluetooth connectivity for calls and native apps for streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal are available, Tesla firmly steers users towards its in-house media and navigation ecosystem. Workarounds exist within owner forums, but they lack the seamless integration of native smartphone mirroring.
Furthermore, the new Tesla Model 3 emits a horn toot upon locking and unlocking, a feature that feels incongruous with its “premium” aspirations and futuristic image. While perhaps preferable to more unconventional sounds, it lacks the refined auditory feedback expected in this vehicle segment. Ironically, the infotainment system includes an “Emissions” app that features various simulated fart noises, including the option to use them as turn signal sounds – a feature that amuses younger passengers but offers limited appeal to adults.
The “Autopilot” driver-assistance system, even in its basic iteration, proves to be a mixed bag. While capable of lane keeping and maintaining distance on motorways, it falls short in more complex scenarios. Attempting to overtake, for instance, often results in Autopilot disengaging rather than proactively assisting with the lane change. This limited functionality led to a preference for disabling the system entirely during the test drive.
Despite these criticisms, the new Tesla Model 3 is far from a disappointing vehicle. In fact, it excels in several crucial aspects, and the updated model demonstrably improves upon its predecessor in numerous ways.
The exterior styling of the new Tesla Model 3 represents a significant visual upgrade. The previous model’s front end, sometimes described as “stubby,” has been refined with cleaner lines, slimmer headlights, and the elimination of fussy design elements. The rear of the vehicle now features integrated taillights within the bootlid, resulting in a more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design.
Practical improvements extend to the boot design as well. The new Tesla Model 3 incorporates a gully to channel rainwater away from the boot opening, preventing water ingress when the hatch is opened after rain – a surprisingly overlooked detail in the previous design. This seemingly minor enhancement underscores Tesla’s relative youth as a car manufacturer, highlighting ongoing refinements in design and engineering.
While the wheel size might appear slightly undersized within the wheel arches, the likely use of deeper tyres contributes positively to ride quality. Aerodynamic enhancements result in the new Tesla Model 3 achieving the lowest drag coefficient of any Tesla model at 0.219Cd, further boosting efficiency and range.
Performance options for the new Tesla Model 3 currently include “quick” and “very quick.” The rear-wheel-drive variant accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds, a figure comparable to mid-1990s BMW M3s. The dual-motor Long Range model significantly reduces this to 4.2 seconds, matching the pace of a Porsche 911 Carrera 4. A future Performance version, potentially breaking the sub-four-second 0-60mph barrier, is also anticipated.
Beyond sheer acceleration, the new Tesla Model 3 impresses with its ride quality and handling dynamics. The suspension strikes an excellent balance, providing comfortable cruising while maintaining composed body control through corners thanks to well-tuned dampers. The steering is nicely weighted and responsive, contributing to an engaging and sporty driving experience without feeling overly aggressive.
Road noise levels are generally low, reportedly up to 30 percent quieter than the previous model, although wheel arch noise becomes noticeable in wet conditions. Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, boasting over 12,000 locations across Europe, remains a significant advantage. The new Tesla Model 3 can gain up to 172 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes at these chargers, with potential for even faster charging speeds in future Supercharger upgrades.
The official range figures for the new Tesla Model 3 are impressive: 318 miles for the entry-level rear-wheel-drive model and a substantial 390 miles for the all-wheel-drive Long Range version tested, albeit at a higher price point. Real-world range accuracy is influenced by driving style and environmental factors, but the Model 3’s detailed energy consumption data and range prediction are remarkably accurate. During testing, the indicated range proved to be realistically achievable even at motorway speeds, demonstrating excellent efficiency.
Fuel efficiency, measured in watt-hours per mile, was exceptional, averaging 5.5 miles per kWh in one test run. Achieving over 4 miles per kWh in a vehicle of this size is commendable, and exceeding 5 miles per kWh is truly outstanding.
While the new Tesla Model 3 boasts impressive range and efficiency, competition is intensifying. The Polestar 4, launching later in the year, closely matches the Model 3 Long Range in both range and price. Furthermore, Chinese manufacturers like BYD are entering the market with compelling alternatives. The BYD Seal, for instance, offers a range of 354 miles at a starting price point that undercuts the Tesla.
However, potential Tesla buyers should be aware of the company’s pricing strategy. Tesla’s practice of frequently adjusting prices to maintain competitiveness can lead to price drops shortly after purchase, impacting resale values and potentially leaving recent buyers feeling shortchanged. This aggressive pricing strategy is partly in response to the influx of lower-cost Chinese EVs, highlighting a potential price war that Western automakers may struggle to win. Reports indicate significant subsidies for Chinese EV manufacturers, creating an uneven playing field.
Despite infotainment system quirks and the aforementioned gaseous sound effects, the system is generally responsive and logically organized. Tesla’s inclusion of in-car games and entertainment features, such as a buggy racing game controllable with the steering wheel and pedals, adds significant appeal, particularly for families. Kids and adults alike can enjoy these features while charging. Sketchpad and Tracks apps offer further creative entertainment.
Rear passengers in the new Tesla Model 3 are also well catered for. A new rear screen between the front seats provides entertainment options, including streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Twitch, and YouTube. Bluetooth headphone connectivity ensures a quiet cabin environment for all occupants.
Other notable improvements include a responsive mobile app, a minimalist cabin with customizable LED trim and facia panels, and a conveniently angled phone holder with wireless fast charging. Comfortable seats, a good driving position (albeit slightly high for a sedan), a spacious boot with additional storage, heated rear seats, and multiple USB-C ports further enhance the new Tesla Model 3‘s practicality and appeal. The only minor drawback in the rear seating is the low seat base, which may affect legroom comfort for taller passengers.
In conclusion, the new Tesla Model 3 represents a substantial improvement over an already accomplished vehicle. While it excels in many areas, particularly in styling, performance, range, and charging infrastructure, certain control interface choices and driver-assistance system limitations might not appeal to all drivers. For dedicated Tesla enthusiasts, the new Model 3 reinforces their brand loyalty. However, for those open to alternatives, compelling competitors like the BMW i4, Polestar 2, and Kia EV6 offer viable alternatives in the increasingly competitive EV market.
As for my friend’s company car decision? He has scheduled a test drive at a Kia dealership to explore the new EV9, suggesting that the new Tesla Model 3, despite its advancements, may not be the only compelling option in the evolving EV landscape.
