2024 Tesla Model 3

 

Overview

With a sleek new look, an attractive estimated driving range, and an accessible price tag the 2024 Tesla Model 3 remains a compelling choice for new car buyers who want to go green. The electric sedan changed the rules of the game when it debuted for the 2017 model year, as it brought EV pricing down far enough to fit into the budgets of a broader swath of U.S. households. It's not perfect though; the Model 3 has suffered from poor fit-and-finish from the outset, its cabin is snug, and its standard equipment list is missing desirable features such as Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Model 3 also lacks physical controls for almost all functions. Aside from a steering wheel, pedals, and window switches, there are few buttons; to do simple things such as adjust the exterior mirrors or steering column you must interact with the large infotainment display on the dashboard. Unfortunately for Tesla, a rash of rivals have launched an assault into its territory, and they're making headway: the BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Polestar 2 all provide similar packages at similar prices with fewer compromises.

What's New for 2024?

The Model 3 has received a welcome styling refresh for 2024, complete with a sleeker front end, a quieter cabin, and updated standard features. While the changes in the Model 3's styling are small tweaks they make a big impact, and the car looks fresher and more upscale than before. The interior receives updated materials that are said to be of better quality; Tesla also claims to have used more sound-deadening materials and installed more acoustic glass to help drown out road noise. The steering wheel has been redesigned and the steering column sheds blinker and transmission-shifter stalks, while the seats wear a new perforated upholstery and support ventilation for front-seat riders. Rear seat passengers are now treated to their own 8.0-inch display with which to adjust climate controls or even watch Netflix. We expect the updated 2024 Tesla Model 3 to appear on the company's website for ordering before the end of 2023.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

As with most EVs, the Model 3 gains speed quickly, smoothly, and almost silently, with the electric motor providing a strong punch from a stop. And it's fast—extremely so in some trims. Like all Teslas, 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 road noise inside the cabin as the tires thwack and thrum over pavement imperfections.

Tesla Model 3 0-60 MPH Time

The 60 mph time for the Model 3 Long Range in our test was 4.1 seconds while the Model 3 Performance reached 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. We have not tested the entry-level Model 3, which comes with a single electric motor and rear-wheel drive, but it is expected to be a bit slower than the all-wheel drive Long Range model.