Tesla Model 3: Driving into the Future

Tesla Model 3

When you mention Tesla, many people will have a strong opinion or two on the brand and its products. There are many who love the brand for its unique place in the automotive market and then there are many who strongly dislike the brand for a number of factors that range from poor build quality, to being associated with a certain CEO. No matter what your opinion is, one thing that is for certain is that the still relatively new Tesla brand is well-known and is constantly in the news, for better or worse. When Tesla launched the stellar Model S in 2013, the brand literally came out of nowhere. They produced a great vehicle that was innovative and years ahead of any competitors in terms of technology. The Model S was and still is expensive. Rather than being a one hit wonder, this vehicle was seen as a stepping stone for a larger lineup. Eventually in 2017, Tesla followed up the Model S and Model X with the much more attainable Model 3. The Tesla Model 3 became a breakthrough vehicle, not only reinventing the sedan but the compact luxury segment too. The Model 3 is highly popular (especially on the West Coast) and is often credited as the vehicle that has driven more people than ever to buy an electric car.

Tesla has found a nice way to incorporate performance, comfort and tech into a vehicle that is relatively affordable. They have also found a way to convince the buying public that they are a luxury brand. On top of that, Tesla’s are still viewed by many as weird, unique and futuristic. All the talk about technology, self-driving modes and the minimalist interior give off a sense of mystery. I feel that people who have never been inside a Tesla are genuinely curious as to how things work, myself included. At present, Tesla is still selling a ton of Model 3’s but it now has more quality competition than ever before. Will Tesla’s loyal followers carry the car that started the electric revolution or will they jump ship?      

Exterior Design: It’s not bad at all

Since people tend to have a love/hate relationship with Tesla, there are many people who quickly dismiss the Model 3 as an unattractive car. Sure, the Model 3 with its simple lines may appears minimalist but that doesn’t mean its bland. Once you spend time with the Model 3, especially in my testers dark grey metallic paint, you learn to develop a new found appreciation for Tesla design.

The Model 3 has a smooth face

The Model 3 has a very simple, modern style. A smooth grille less face dominates the front end and bares a strong resemblance to the larger Model S. Bug eyed headlights grab attention and provides the Model 3 with a level of cuteness. The front is quite low to the ground and very sleek, leading to a very large windshield. The vehicle has an arching roofline that pinches towards the rear to create a hatchback like shape. A short rear deck and tall rear end complete the look of this sedan. Lastly, the Model 3’s charging port is integrated into the driver’s side tail light cluster. These tail lights are stylish in appearance and have a smokey dark finish to them which I have always liked. The clean lines of the Model 3 remind me of an Apple product, which in turn helps it stand out in a sea of similar cars.         

Model 3 tail light cluster

The Model 3 is a very well-proportioned car that looks premium, sporty and somewhat European. It makes sense why the Model 3 is cross-shopped with similar sized cars from BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz. However, unlike those competitors the Model 3 and Tesla’s in general suffer from poor quality in body panel fit and finish. I know Tesla claims that they are fixing that issue but it’s still not acceptable to have these problems in 2024. Nevertheless, the Model 3 is very popular and when I say popular I truly mean that. Here on the West Coast the Model 3 is everywhere and I feel that is a main reason why this vehicle gets blamed for being somewhat anonymous. When you analyze and break down the styling and forget that there are like five other Model 3’s in the same small parking lot, the Model 3 is actually a very well executed design.

 Interior Design: One screen does it all

The Tesla Model 3 is famous for having a minimalist interior. There are no buttons, no knobs, no gauge cluster behind the steering wheel, nothing that many conventional competitors include. Instead you receive a large 15.0-inch center video screen, accompanied by a steering wheel with a few scroll wheels and a couple of steering wheel stalks. The large 15.0-inch screen acts as the brain of the vehicle as all info and every single task must be completed via this screen. At first this seems extremely overwhelming, yet its quick, responsive and highly intuitive. In fact, every menu and task that I needed was well laid out and the system didn’t lag, something that many other competitors struggle with. The system provides so much information and is filled with many unique quirks that can only be found in a Tesla (for ex. Santa mode). The navigation system is top notch and the premium audio system sounds great. The touchscreen is so far advanced that you can even play video games on it while parked of course. Tesla also provides over-the-air updates that will allow owners the ability to make enhancements or add new features as they come available.

The Model 3 comes available with an arcade menu

There is no traditional key fob as everything is synced up with the app. As long as you have your phone with the app on you, the Model 3 is ready to be accessed and driven. A proximity card acts as a backup or spare key. This basically looks like a credit card and you must swipe it near the B-pillar to unlock the car and then place it near the front cup holders to start it up. This method is so very Tesla but it works and its actually really neat. A steering wheel stalk on the right side acts as a gear shifter. This functions in a straight forward manner and is a feature that has become common in electric cars thanks to Tesla.  

The dash is long and linear, yet somehow attractive despite being sparse. Wood trim adorns the dash, giving off a simple Scandinavian vibe. The Tesla Model 3 has comfortable seats with actual buttons on the side to make adjustments. Rear seats are also well padded and there is plenty of head and leg room due to the vehicle having a flat floor. The Model 3 feels spacious and open on the inside, with large windows and a glass roof providing lots of natural light into the cabin. Opening the door from the inside is different as you must press a button on the door panel, no handles here. The Tesla can carry up to 19.8 cubic feet of cargo, which is better than main rivals from Hyundai and BMW. Also included is a decent sized frunk that can carry regular sized items and I believe Tesla was a pioneer in creating this feature in EVs.

All Tesla’s come with very usable frunks

Lastly, an interesting feature in the Model 3 is Tesla’s Sentry mode. When enabled, the vehicle’s cameras and sensors will start filming suspicious activity around the vehicle. If it feels threatened it will alert you. This feature is something that can be helpful and its used by thousands of Tesla’s owners and in many cases catching people in the act of vandalizing the car.

A camera located in the B pillar

The interior of the Model 3 is very different and couldn’t be anything other than a Tesla. The design may not appeal to everyone’s tastes but it is still rather comfortable. If you like having buttons, dials and knobs the Tesla is not for you but if you don’t mind looking at the screen and enjoy technology, then the interior of the Tesla is a great place. On the inside, this Tesla wasn’t as weird or complicated as many might think it is. Perception is one thing, but overall the Model 3 provides all occupants with a very livable and usable space.

How it drives: Instant torque, nice driving dynamics

First things first, the Tesla Model 3 is quick. My tester was not the updated 2024 version but instead a 2023. Tesla doesn’t provide exact performance figures so everything is just an estimate. It is estimated that a single-motor rear-wheel drive Model 3 has around 260 HP and 310 lbs-ft of torque. Meanwhile a dual-motor performance version has around 460 HP and 471 lbs-ft of torque. Both versions are estimated to have a 0-60mph time of 5 seconds or less, which is highly impressive.

Found a twin! The Model 3 is extremely common

The Tesla Model 3 is a driver’s car, with a solid and responsive ride. It has a tight feel to it, especially around corners and when taking them at speed, the Model 3 still feels composed, making you want to push it even harder at the next turn. Even though I drove the single-motor rear-wheel drive version, the Model 3 still gains speed effortlessly and you get that feeling of being slightly pushed back into the seat as speeds pick up. Power launches strongly from a dead stop as you silently gain momentum. The ride is on the firmer side but it isn’t uncomfortable. You do hear road and tire noise but that could have been accentuated by the winter tires. The vehicle has different drive modes and steering feel can be adjusted. I think steering felt accurate, with a nice weight to it and the Model 3 was easy to maneuver as well as being tossable. The Model 3 might come equipped with all the latest self-driving features but this vehicle has character and can hang with the finest compact sport sedans from Europe. If you are interested in a vehicle that is actually fun to drive, I recommend giving Tesla and their Model 3 a try.

Winter tires could have been to blame for added road noise

Regenerative braking was not as severe as I thought and Tesla has found a way to incorporate it in a way that can make a spirited driving style fun. The regen system and overall on road performance finds a way to work well together. It rolls perfectly to a complete stop when you lift your foot off the gas and wasn’t as jarring as other EVs I have sampled. Similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 6, the Model 3 allows the vehicle to idle and coast in traffic much like a gas car. Personally, I think this was probably the best iteration of regen braking that I have experienced so far. The Model 3 comes equipped with a semi-autonomous drive mode that is easy to activate. All you have to do is push down on the gear shifter stalk and the car will automatically follow the road. The center screen will show the path in which the car will follow, set a speed and the car will travel up to the desired limit. If you move the steering wheel the system will deactivate. I wouldn’t rely on this to drive but it functions and it’s a cool gadget.

Some interesting door handles

The Model 3 has great visibility and really good parking cameras. The Autopilot driver-assist program offers standard automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and the adaptive cruise control. An available enhanced autopilot will allow for semi-autonomous driving that I mentioned above and self-parking. At one time all these features were a novelty but many competitors have caught up with the times and offer similar standard safety features. Either way this Tesla receives top marks in the safety department.  

Finger prints aside, the Model 3 has some great camera angles

After a drive in the Tesla Model 3, I have to say that my perception about the brand changed for the better. I was able to gain a new appreciation for the vehicle as the drive was pleasant. The Model 3 offers many redeeming qualities that can make a driving enthusiast excited. I’m no Tesla fan boy but consider me intrigued.     

Fastback style, makes this vehicle aerodynamic

Full Autonomous Mode: Not quite there yet

I was also fortunate enough to sample the Tesla Model 3 with the full self-driving capability on public streets. This is a whole new ballgame that’s so unique that it gets its own paragraph. First off, I would not trust this system to safely take me from point A to point B. It approaches stop signs with extreme caution, doesn’t recognize left turn signals and the vehicle makes questionable decisions while in traffic. Many times, the driver will have to intervene and take control as the vehicle hesitates to make a move or alternatively won’t stop in close call situations. You must keep touching the wheel so the car knows you are at least there and somewhat alert. The vehicle makes strange movements around buses and large trucks, at times taking up two lanes to make a pass. It operates in the same manner as a first time new driver would. Tesla claims that this system makes driving more safe and less stressful. I’d argue for the opposite. Lastly, I tried summon mode that basically moves the car in and out of tight spaces via the app. While its very cool that full self-driving is offered, its definitely an experience. I was super excited to try it out but if this is the crown jewel in self driving technology, then the system still has a long way to go before being safe to use.   

Some misaligned trim

Range: Very good, but no longer the best

The Tesla Model 3 offers good electric range but has since been eclipsed by other competitors such as the Hyundai Ioniq 6. A 2023 Model 3 Rear-wheel drive has a 58 kWh battery that can go 267-272 miles or 430-438 km on a single charge. A dual motor version brings aboard an 82 kWh battery that can travel between 315-358 miles or 507-576 km depending on wheel choice. These are still respectable numbers and the Model 3 still has better range than the Polestar 2, BMW i4 and Mercedes-Benz EQE.

A nice feature with the Tesla is that if you were to go on a road trip, the Model 3 will map out a route and will show you exactly when and where you can charge the car. A very helpful feature that shows just how smart this car is.

Model 3 charging port

Final Thoughts: Give it a try     

The Tesla Model 3 is a unique specimen in the automotive industry. In one aspect it’s a great driver’s car, with exceptional performance and handling. On the other side of things, the Model 3 is like a computer on wheels, jam packed with technology and never before seen levels of autonomous driving capability. After my time behind the wheel, I think the Model 3 is a very likeable vehicle and I can see why it’s so popular. When you factor in the technology, driving dynamics and comfort, along with a reasonable price tag, the Model 3 becomes quite compelling. A huge bonus is that it still feels futuristic when compared to its main competitors. Buyers will enjoy learning more about their vehicle and unlocking all of its cool features as they get more time behind the wheel.

The Model 3 is a revolutionary vehicle that will be remembered in automotive history as the car that made electric vehicles popular. It truly is an important car in that aspect. New competitors have come in and now offer products that are on par with the Tesla. I personally feel that the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a slightly better option as that is a great EV and great sedan in general. However, I still believe that the Model 3 is much better than its more premium rivals from Germany and Sweden. Overall, I think the Tesla Model 3 will continue to sell well and attract even more buyers, especially with the 2024 update.

Tesla still likes to operate more like a tech startup than an actual car company and I am totally okay with that. If you can overlook the questionable build quality, controversy and other big issues that surround Tesla these days, then go for it, check out the Model 3, you won’t be disappointed.

*All 2023 figures and prices

Pricing and Specifications:

Single-Motor RWD with 58.0-kWh battery - 260 HP; 310 lb-ft torque

Dual-Motor with 82.0-kWh battery - 460 HP; 471 lb-ft torque

Canada: *Rebates vary depending on Province

Model 3 RWD - $53,990

Model 3 Long-Range - $63,990

Model 3 Performance - $73,290

US: *Rebates vary depending on State

Model 3 RWD - $38,990

Model 3 Long-Range - $45,990

Model 3 Performance - $50,990

Main Competitors:

BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Mercedes-Benz EQE, Polestar 2, VW ID7

Tesla logo