2017 Tesla Model 3

Overview

The Tesla Model 3 could be the car to finally convert ardent skeptics of electric vehicles. With an affordable starting price for the Standard version, the Model 3 is significantly less expensive than the Southern California-based automaker’s previous offerings, the Model S sedan and Model X crossover. The Standard Model 3 has an EPA-estimated driving range of 220 miles, while the Long Range variant is rated at 310 miles.

What's New for 2017?

The Model 3 is about as new as new can get. This marks a milestone for Tesla Motors which, until now, focused on high-end models with sticker prices starting around $70,000, or higher. The Model 3 is intended to make all-electric motoring affordable for a lot more consumers.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• Standard: $36,000
• Long Range: $45,000

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Tesla will eventually offer several variations of electric powertrains for the Model 3, including dual-motor versions with all-wheel drive. At the moment, the automaker is rolling out rear-wheel drive models only, with driving ranges of 220 and 310 miles. Not long ago, an EV that could exceed 100 miles per charge was considering something of an unicorn. Tesla is raising the bar when it comes to what you can expect from a modern and more practical electric vehicle. With the equivalent of 346 horsepower, the Model 3 accelerates quickly, and its low center of gravity makes it eager to dart around corners. The ride isn’t quite as polished, unfortunately; there’s a substantial amount of noise caused by the tires' interaction with the road surface.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

If you’re not big on wood trim or other fancy furnishings, the interior of the Model 3 could be your ideal automotive interior. The dashboard is dominated by a 15.0-inch touchscreen sitting prominently between the driver and front passenger. This is your main information zone and primary point of contact with the car; there are virtually no buttons or knobs in this stark cabin. Thanks to the electric architecture, the floor is flat, which helps create an airy and open feel in both the first and second row. Rear visibility leaves something to be desired, however, and we found the rear seats to be uncomfortable during longer drives. Flat and unsupportive bottom cushions are the primary culprit here. A small front trunk (or “frunk,” in EV speak) is a nice complement to the regular 15.0 cubic foot trunk located behind the passenger cabin.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

The 15.0-inch touchscreen in the Model 3 comes standard with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, two USB ports, a seven-speaker audio system, and navigation. There’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity, though Tesla’s infotainment interface is impressive in how it operates. Due to its large size and proximity to the driver, scrolling through menus and commands is usually easy. Yet some processes, like adjusting temperature settings, require far more steps than a simple tactile button or knob would demand.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Tesla Model 3’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.