Unless you live in a cave or drive a horse and buggy, you probably know that Tesla has redefined the automotive industry by proving that electric vehicles (EVs) are just as viable as they are desirable. Tesla’s Model 3 is the smallest and most affordable car the company makes, and thus its most mainstream. Apart from standard amenities such as a large infotainment display and cutting-edge driver assists, the latest version gets a few physical updates including a new wheel design, a power trunk lid, and wireless charging for two devices. Several entry-level competitors, such as the Hyundai Kona Electric, cost less and offer similar range, but those vehicles don’t benefit from Tesla’s model of over-the-air (OTA) software updates that keep its high-tech cars current. For all of these reasons, the Tesla Model 3 is our Editors’ Choice winner for mainstream EVs.
Top-Notch Range and Tech
The 2022 Tesla Model 3 is available in three trim levels. The base model, simply called Model 3, is rear-wheel drive and starts at $44,990. The other two models are dual-motor all-wheel drive, with the Model 3 Long Range starting at $50,990 and the Model 3 Performance starting at $58,990. For comparison, the Kona Electric costs significantly less at $34,000, while the Volkswagen ID.4 starts at $45,190.
We tested the 2021 model of the car, which has the same Long Range and Performance trims, but the base model is called Standard Range Plus instead of just Model 3. Aside from this, the only other notable change between the two model years is a slight increase in range; for 2022 Tesla lists a range of 272 miles on the base model and 358 miles on the Long Range trim, compared with EPA ratings of 267 and 353 for the 2021 models. The Performance trim remains the same at 315 miles.
The Standard Range Plus model we tested comes with a 211kW electric motor that delivers roughly 283 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. of torque to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. In terms of range, the entry-level models of the Kona Electric (258 miles) and Chevy Bolt (259 miles) are nearly comparable, while the Mustang Mach-E (230 miles) and Nissan Leaf Plus (226 miles) fall behind.
With the combination of Tesla’s Level 3 Supercharger and the onboard 7.7kW charger, you can top off the battery in about an hour and charge it up to 80% in as little as 15 to 30 minutes. A 240-volt outlet takes the battery from empty to about 80% in six to eight hours.
The base model offers 18-inch wheels and 235/45R18 tires; dual-zone climate controls; heated and power-adjustable front seats; keyless entry and start; LED headlights; a panoramic sunroof; split-folding rear seats; and synthetic leather upholstery.
Tech amenities for this trim include an eight-speaker audio system; a 15-inch touch screen with a web browser and navigation capabilities; and a wireless charging pad for two smartphones. Driver assists such as adaptive cruise control; automatic emergency braking; blind-spot warning; lane-keeping assist; and front and rear parking sensors are standard.
The Long Range trim adds a larger 258kW battery, 346 horsepower, and 389 lb-ft. of torque, as well as a 11.5-kW charger that slightly shortens charging time. In addition, it offers a 15-speaker audio system, all-wheel-drive, LED fog lights, floor mats, and heated rear seats.
The Performance trim has a 340kW battery that produces 450 horsepower and 471 lb-ft. of torque and also uses the 11.5-kW charger. In addition to all-wheel drive, this model offers 20-inch wheels with P235/35R20 summer tires; a carbon-fiber spoiler, a high-performance driving mode, larger brakes, and a sport-tuned suspension.
The Model 3 still heavily relies on the original Tesla Model S Concept that renowned car designer Henrik Fisker conceived more than a decade ago. But its cab-forward stance makes the Model 3 instantly distinct from any of its more traditionally shaped competitors.
An veritable greenhouse of windows and a full-length glass roof give the cabin an open, airy feel and excellent 360-degree visibility. The Model 3 offers plenty of space for up to four passengers, but the trunk capacity is about average for the segment.
Big Screen, Lots of Functionality
The interior has a very modern, almost austere feel because Tesla doesn’t use traditional gauges and includes only a few physical controls. The 15-inch touch screen handles nearly every vehicle setting, and you use the steering wheel’s scroll and push controls to change settings such as audio volume, as well as to adjust the side mirrors and headlights. This control setup is a stark departure from traditional switches and dials, and requires a bit of an adjustment.
The sheer volume of functions that you control via the 15-inch screen can be overwhelming at first, but after a few days with the Model 3, we adjusted to it. That said, you may find it distracting to look up and tap through multiple menus while you drive.
Cellular connectivity enables cloud-based voice commands, navigation (based on Google Maps), a Wi-Fi hotspot, a web browser, and over-the-air updates. You can listen to music via the AM/FM HD and satellite radio; use Bluetooth to stream audio wirelessly (and conduct hands-free calls); or download various music streaming apps such as Spotify, Tidal, and TuneIn.
The Model 3 doesn’t support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Instead, it makes you use a custom smartphone platform to access content from a connected device via Bluetooth or USB. This platform isn’t as seamless as Android Auto or CarPlay and doesn’t offer as many app options. But the ability to connect your phone wirelessly via Bluetooth is a plus, and all of the most important functionality is available.
Perhaps most importanly, unlike traditional car companies that follow a predictable pattern of model updates and midcycle refreshes, Tesla is constantly updating its new and existing vehicles via OTA software updates. This means the Model 3 you buy today can potentially offer new and improved functionality in the future. You can’t say that about many other cars.
Instant, Seamless Surge of Power
One of Tesla’s claims to fame is an instant, seamless, and nearly silent surge of power when you stab the accelerator. The Model 3 is indeed a thrill ride, and Tesla claims the electric motor in the base model we tested can propel the car from 0 to 60mph in 5.3 seconds; that’s more than enough power to pass slowpokes and easily merge onto the crowded and fast-moving SoCal freeways we tested the vehicle on.
The large battery under the floor gives the Model 3 a low center of gravity and excellent stability through turns; you can adjust the steering feel to your preference as well. While the suspension isn’t as sporty as, say, a BMW, it’s reasonably responsive and handles most road imperfections well.
As mentioned, all versions of the Model 3 offer standard driver assistance features, but the highlight is the Autopilot system that uses adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to accelerate, steer, and brake on the highway. It works better than most so-called semi-autonomous systems, and displays all of the relevant information on the dashboard screen in real time. It’s impressive technology, if somewhat distracting.
Our test car didn’t come with the optional—and controversial—Full Self-Driving feature that enables the car to change lanes, pass slower vehicles, and make turns autonomously. If you want it on your vehicle, it costs an additional $12,000.
An Excellent Entry-Level EV
The Model 3 is by far the best-selling vehicle in the small but growing entry-level EV category, and a testament to Tesla’s threat to legacy automakers. With its 15-inch dashboard touch screen that controls almost all of the car’s features and functions, innovative over-the-air software updates, and cutting-edge driver assists, the Model 3 is a technophile’s dream. And while it certainly isn’t the most affordable EV you can buy, it leads the segment in terms of range, performance, and technology. That makes it the Tesla model best suited for newcomers who want to take the EV plunge, and our Editors’ Choice winner for entry-level electric vehicles.
