Smooth acceleration, sharp handling, Performance model brings the heat - 2019 Tesla Model 3 Review
0Overview
Although originally intended to be an electric car for the masses, the 2019 Tesla Model 3 is instead more of an all-electric alternative to compact luxury sedans. The promised $35,000 Model 3 is now available only by special order, meaning the least expensive version available to order online starts at $41,100—in the territory of the BMW 3-series and the Mercedes-Benz C-class. The Model 3's available driving range starts at 240 miles for the base Standard Range Plus Battery model and goes up to 310 for the Long Range Battery model.
What's New for 2019?
Tesla increased the 2019 Model 3's value by including the company's semi-autonomous Autopilot equipment as standard. The Model 3 Performance also now comes standard with the previously optional Performance Upgrade package, which includes 20-inch wheels with summer tires, upgraded brakes, a carbon-fiber spoiler, a lowered suspension, and a 10-mph increase in top speed (to 155 mph).
The Standard Range Plus Battery model is the best value. It provides 240 miles of driving range, which should be enough for the majority of drivers. This model also comes with desirable features such as heated front seats and navigation.
Powertrain, Charging, and Performance
Likes: Smooth acceleration, sharp handling, Performance model brings the heat.
Dislikes: Charging at Tesla Supercharging stations isn't free, noisy ride.
As with most EVs, the Model 3 gains speed smoothly and almost silently, with the electric motor providing strong power from a stop. The rear-wheel-drive Long Range model we tested sprinted from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The Model 3 Performance rockets to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds—0.4 second faster than the bigger and more expensive Model S 100D.
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 noise inside as the tires thwack and thrum over pavement imperfections.
Driving Range and Real-World MPGe
The various versions of the Model 3 are rated at between 116 MPGe and 133 MPGe by the EPA. Our test vehicle, however, managed only 84 MPGe when we took it on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test. The Model 3 offers several different options for charging: Tesla's network of fast-charging stations called Superchargers, adapters for DC public-charging stations and 240-volt and 120-volt outlets, and a home-charging station.
Interior, Infotainment, and Cargo
Likes: Minimalist design, responsive infotainment system, front and rear trunks provide plenty of cargo space.
Dislikes: Overly reliant on central touchscreen, uncomfortable rear seat, tiny door bins.
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.
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.
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 cramped and uncomfortable. Folding the 60/40 split-folding rear seats is simple and expands the trunk 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.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
View Crash Test Results
The Model 3 has been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and received a perfect five-star score; the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named it a Top Safety Pick+. Although we question whether the name Autopilot might be 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. 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 lasting 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.