Tesla Model 3

Can a car be "insanely amazing"? Well, that's how an owner described the Model 3 on an MatoCar consumer review. Is there some hyperbole here? Most definitely. But even from our more measured standpoint, the Model 3 is an impressive sedan. And it's getting even

More range is always a good thing with an electric vehicle, and the Model 3 obliges. The base Model 3's range rises from 250 miles to an EPA-estimated 263 miles of range. Similar gains are in store for the Long Range AWD and the Performance. Other 2021 changes include black exterior trim instead of chrome, a standard wireless phone charging pad, a power trunklid, metal steering wheel control dials instead of plastic, and a new window design to help reduce outside noise.

The Model 3 is a great pick for an EV, but it's not the only one for 2021. Specifically, we've found the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia Niro EV, Polestar 2 (Polestar is a new boutique EV brand from Volvo) and Volkswagen ID.4 to also be viable choices. So should you stick with Silicon Valley's finest or go with an alternative? Read our Model 3 Expert Rating below to help you decide.

What's it like to live with?

MatoCar' editorial team lived with a 2017 Tesla Model 3 Long Range for nearly two years, logging 24,000 miles. As an all new-design for Tesla, it had a few teething problems at first. But most of the issues were electronic in nature and were later sorted out via software updates. The 2021 Tesla Model 3 differs from our early long-term Model 3 by way of improved cabin materials and different powertrain options. It's the same generation, though, so many of our observations still apply. Check out our 2017 Tesla Model 3 Long Range coverage to learn more.

Which Model 3 does MatoCar recommend?

Because range really is peace of mind in an EV, we'd recommend the Long Range AWD. Not only do you get an EPA-estimated range of 353 miles but you get a faster onboard charger for quicker fill-ups. The all-wheel-drive system affords improved traction in inclement weather but also benefits dry-weather handling and performance. We're also fans of the upgraded 14-speaker audio system that's standard on this trim level.

The Tesla Model 3 is a fully electric sedan that comes in three trim levels: Standard Range Plus (later renamed to simply the base Model 3 midway through the model year), Long Range and Performance. Each trim is differentiated primarily by levels of driving range and acceleration from a battery-electric powertrain. Be aware that Tesla updates the Model 3 on an ongoing basis rather than by model year, so what follows might not necessarily reflect the most current offering. Highlighted features include:

Standard Range Plus (or base Model 3) Offers an estimated 263 miles of range, as well as:

Rear-wheel drive
7.6-kW onboard charger
170 kW max Supercharging
Tesla-estimated 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds
18-inch wheels
Simulated leather upholstery
Panoramic glass roof
Keyless entry and start
Power-adjustable and heated front seats
Heated steering wheel
Wireless charging for two smartphones
15-inch touchscreen with navigation
Tesla's Autopilot (suite of advanced driver aids, including exterior cameras and traffic-adaptive cruise control)

Long Range Adds all-wheel drive and ups the estimated range to 353 miles. It also has:

11.5-kW onboard charger
250 kW max Supercharging
Estimated 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds
15-speaker premium sound system
Heated rear seats

Performance Dials up the performance of the Long Range but offers only 315 miles of estimated range:

Estimated 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds
20-inch wheels
Carbon-fiber rear spoiler
Aluminum pedals
Sport suspension
High-performance brakes
Track-oriented driving mode

Tesla offers a so-called Full Self-Driving Capability option on all trims. It adds nifty semi-automated driving features, including automated parking and the ability to change lanes simply by flicking the turn signal. Tesla also says the Full Self-Driving Capability feature will gain additional automated driving capabilities in the future via over-the-air updates.