Tesla Model 3 Review

Price: £39,990 to £49,990

Electrifying.com score

9/10

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The game-changing Tesla Model 3 has been revised to keep it ahead of newer rivals. It remains not just Tesla’s most affordable car, but its most impressive one too. All versions come with great range, performance and superb safety. Plus, you’ll have Tesla’s Supercharger network of rapid charging stations at your disposal.

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  • Battery size: 55 – 75kWh
  • Miles per kWh: 5.2
  • E-Rating™ : A++

    Click here to find out more about our electric car Efficiency Rating.

  • Max charge rate: 250 kW
  • Range: 318-390 miles
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  • Battery size: 55 – 75kWh
  • Miles per kWh: 5.2
  • E-Rating™ : A++

    Click here to find out more about our electric car Efficiency Rating.

  • Max charge rate: 250 kW
  • Range: 318-390 miles
  • Electrifying.com E-Rating A++

Ginny Says

“The Model 3 is a best seller for a reason. It's not quite perfect, but in the same way that Apple created a mythology around its products, you don't just buy a Tesla, you buy into a clan. ”

Nicki Says

“Tesla leads when it comes to tech. I know it's divisive, but I love the simple high-tech interior that does away with switches and buttons. The excellent Supercharger network is another huge bonus.”


The Model 3 continues to get cheaper, so the standard version now overlaps with the price of electric Vauxhall Corsas. Take the whole-life costs such as fuel, maintenance and tax savings into account though and it makes even more financial sense - just watch out for the insurance and depreciation. 

  • Price:£39,990 to £59,990
  • Full charge cost (approx. – based on home charging):£15-25
  • Company car tax:2% (2022 -2025)
  • Insurance group:48 to 50
  • Warranty Vehicle:4 year 50,000 mi
  • Warranty Battery & Drive Unit:8 year 120,000 mi

Pricing

The Model 3 range starts with the standard model - simply called Model 3 Rear-wheel drive – which costs from £39,990. The Long Range AWD starts at £49,990 while the range-topping Model 3 Performance costs £59,990, which sounds expensive, but try to find this kind of range, tech and performance for a similar amount and you'll see why the Model 3 still has a reputation for great value... These prices seem to change every few weeks though, so check on the Tesla site for the latest! 

Of course there are a host of interesting options, from special paint to self-driving capability. White is the only ‘free’ colour, all the others cost £1,300 or a whopping £2,000 for the fantastic multicoat red. The interior in all the versions comes as standard in black; adding the recommended white option (with better seat materials) is also £1,100.

A tow hitch can only be factory fitted and is £1,300 extra (and like the price, the availability of the option seems to change almost daily), but the most expensive option is Full Self-Driving Capability at £6,800. This adds some very clever automated driving functions, such as the ability to read traffic lights and signs or even bring the car to you in a car park. If you can’t afford it when you buy the car - or object to paying for something which doesn't work properly yet - , this particular option can be added later. 

Running costs 

How much it costs to run a Model 3 will largely depend on how you charge it. If you top up the battery at home it will cost around £7.50- £20 to completely charge from ‘empty’ to 100%. Public charging points will vary in cost from double to triple that amount, although there are still some which are free to use. 

When it comes to servicing, the Tesla costs should come as a nice surprise to anyone used to a traditional car’s oil change, fuel filter, and spark plug replacements. Even brake pad renewals are rarely needed because regenerative braking returns energy to the battery, significantly reducing wear. The company doesn’t publish service prices, but expect a three year/36,000 mile maintenance plan to cost around £500. 

Watch out for the insurance costs though. Tesla's limited network of approved repairers, iffy parts supply, unapproved keyless systems and the cars' acceleration means insurance companies hate them and premiums are high. Get a quote before you buy, especially if you are younger or an inexperienced driver.


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