Boasting a sleek new design, impressive estimated driving range, and an affordable price, the 2024 Tesla Model 3 remains an enticing option for eco-conscious car buyers. Since its 2017 debut, the electric sedan has revolutionized the market by making EVs accessible to a wider range of U.S. families. However, the Model 3 isn’t without flaws. It has faced issues with poor fit-and-finish, a cramped cabin, and the lack of standard features like Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio. Additionally, the Model 3 relies heavily on its large infotainment display for almost all functions, lacking physical controls. Competing models such as the BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Polestar 2 are gaining traction, offering similar features with fewer compromises.
Enhanced Features of the 2024 Tesla Model 3
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 showcases a stylish update, featuring a sleeker front end, a quieter cabin, and upgraded standard features. These exterior refinements, although subtle, significantly elevate the car’s modern and luxurious appeal. Inside, the Model 3 benefits from enhanced materials and increased use of sound insulation, along with additional acoustic glass to minimize road noise. The steering wheel has been redesigned, now without blinker and transmission-shifter stalks. The seats are equipped with new perforated upholstery and ventilation for front-seat passengers. Rear occupants now enjoy an 8.0-inch display for climate control adjustments and Netflix streaming. The Model 3 Performance variant has also been upgraded, boasting 510 horsepower (up from 455), an estimated driving range of 296 miles, an adaptive suspension system, a dedicated Track mode, enhanced brakes, sport seats, and a staggered wheel and tire configuration.
Performance and Handling Advantages of the 2024 Tesla Model 3
The Model 3, akin to most electric vehicles (EVs), accelerates swiftly, smoothly, and nearly silently, providing a potent burst from a standstill. Its rapidity is particularly pronounced in select trims. Positioned beneath the floor, the Model 3’s battery lowers its center of gravity, enhancing agility and stability around corners. Steering is precise with adjustable effort across three settings. While the ride is firm yet comfortable, the absence of a combustion engine amplifies road noise over uneven surfaces. The 2024 Performance variant introduces upgrades like a sport-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers. This model’s all-wheel-drive system generates 510 combined horsepower, complemented by enhanced brakes and staggered wheels and tires.
Acceleration and Performance Metrics of the 2024 Tesla Model 3
In our tests, the Model 3 Long Range accelerated to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. We haven’t tested the entry-level Model 3 with its single electric motor and rear-wheel drive yet, but it is anticipated to be slightly slower than the all-wheel-drive Long Range model. The 2024 Performance trim, with its increased power, boasts a claimed 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds. We will update this story with our own test results when available.
Range and Charging Options of the 2024 Tesla Model 3
The 2024 Model 3 is available in three trims, each with a different estimated driving range. The base rear-wheel-drive model offers an estimated range of 272 miles and is the most affordable option. The Long Range model boosts the estimated range to 341 miles, although opting for the extra-cost 19-inch wheels slightly reduces this figure. The Performance model, while more powerful, still offers a respectable estimated range of 296 miles per charge. However, achieving these distances can be challenging, as evidenced by our long-term tests with the Long Range Model 3. For charging, the Model 3 provides multiple options, including Tesla’s Supercharger network, adapters for DC public charging stations, 240- and 120-volt outlets, and a home-charging station.
Efficiency and Aerodynamics of the 2024 Tesla Model 3
The different versions of the Model 3 have EPA ratings ranging from 113 MPGe to 138 MPGe. However, during our 75-mph highway fuel economy test, our test vehicle achieved only 84 MPGe. The Model 3 comes with aluminum wheels covered by plastic aerodynamic hubcaps, which we tested to determine their impact on driving range. Surprisingly, these hubcaps significantly improved the car’s efficiency. For more details on the Model 3’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior Design and Practicality of the 2024 Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3’s interior is truly unique in the automotive market, featuring an ultra-simplistic design where nearly everything is controlled via the large central touchscreen. Steering wheel buttons control functions such as the exterior mirrors, steering column position, and even the turn signals, although traditional controls might be more intuitive. The low, flat floor of the Model 3 creates a spacious and open feel inside. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, but the rear seats are low, cramped, and uncomfortable for adults on long trips. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats are easy to fold, significantly increasing trunk space. With the rear seats folded flat, the Model 3 offers a continuous cargo floor capable of accommodating larger items and enough space for 15 carry-on suitcases. Additionally, the cabin features ample bins and cubbies for storage.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Model 3 comes standard with navigation, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity, but it lacks AM radio and SiriusXM satellite radio. Instead, it offers several internet-streaming radio options. Additionally, the Model 3 is not compatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. To make charging-station stops more enjoyable, the central display provides access to entertainment options like Netflix, YouTube, and various arcade games. Rear-seat passengers can use an 8.0-inch touchscreen mounted on the back of the center console to control climate settings and infotainment features.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Tesla’s Autopilot driver-assist system, despite its potentially misleading name, offers a robust set of features, including smooth automatic lane changes. For detailed crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Tesla offers one of the longest warranty coverages in the EV segment, though it does not include corrosion protection. The Long Range model benefits from an additional 20,000 miles on the battery and drive component coverage. The warranty details are:
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
