Will the new Tesla Model 3 be best EV of 2024?

The new Tesla Model 3 will this be the best EV of 2024?

The Model 3 from Tesla is the defining EV of the UK; in 2020 this saloon revolutionised what we thought was possible in terms of range, charging and affordability. In some ways this option represents the litmus test for what actually constitutes a good car - the BMW i4, Polestar 2 Fastback and Mercedes EQE are prime examples which are directly compared to the M3. And to think that in 2019 / 2020, the world was preparing for national closures and lockdowns amidst COVID, so for many manufacturers this led to a supply and manufacturing recession.

Indeed, the whole event led to microchip and parts shortages, ultimately making 2021 and 2022 some of the most expensive times to buy a car or van. But the pioneering Elon Musk and his Tesla brand seemed somewhat impervious to current affairs of the time and pushed through with their more affordable Model 3. While the Model S and X were already in production and supply, the £70,000 - £100,000+ price tags essentially made these unviable for many personal and business leasing customers in the UK.

SO why update the Tesla Model 3?

In essence, tech for the cars and batteries has changed rapidly since 2019. One of the big rivals, the Polestar 2, has already undergone its first major revision ahead of the Tesla Model 3. So it wasn’t entirely surprising when the “Project Highland” information was leaked, which confirmed some serious revisions and improvements to the M3.

As you can tell from the exterior photos, the saloon will see modernisation coupled with more aggressive features. Where the tesla brand does receive critique is with its slightly understated, if not boring, exterior appearance. For many UK customers who are historically Audi, BMW or Mercedes customers, there is some expectation on the aesthetics and ergonomics.

With sleeker headlights, fog light removal and vent removal, the front looks far cleaner. More alloy options, in 18” and 19” format, will be made available too, as well as a new red and grey colour option.

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While the interior of the new Model 3 will remain frugal, there are some trim upgrades and technological advances, like the quicker and more responsive large central screen. The “stalks” will be removed, so that the indicator and wiper controls can be found on an improved steering wheel.

And overall quality of the interior, which is one of the biggest complaints about Tesla, has also been addressed. But amidst the style and finesse, there are some practical revisions too, with battery efficiency and range improvements. Speed of charge and real world range are the two most important facets with an EV after all!

And how does the new standard Tesla Model 3 Tesla perform? 

Starting from £44,000 the RWD will have a 57.5 kWh usable battery which will offer 0 – 62 times of 6.1 seconds, 125 mph top speeds and 208 kW (or 279 hp). Expect a combined winter range of 215 miles with warmer weather allowing for 305 miles. On charging, the 11 kW AC max will allow 6  hour and 15 min 0 – 100% charging times with the 170  kW DC maximum allowing 25 minute 10 – 80% times. A cargo volume of 682L is available with this car. It has a vehicle fuel equivalent of 183 mpg. You can tow up to 750kg (unbraked) and 1000kg (braked)  with this EV. It also has no V2L or V2G capabilities (so far).

And how does the new Long Range Tesla  Model 3 Tesla perform? 

Starting from £52,000, the AWD will have a 75 kWh usable battery which will offer 0 – 62 times of 4.4 seconds, 125 mph top speeds and 366 kW (or 491 hp). Expect a combined winter range of 260 miles with warmer weather allowing for 355 miles. On charging, the 11 kW AC max will allow 6  hour and 15 min 0 – 100% charging times with the 250 kW DC maximum allowing 27 minute 10 – 80% times. A cargo volume of 682L is available with this car. It has a vehicle fuel equivalent of 170mpg. You can tow up to 750kg (unbraked) and 1000kg (braked)  with this EV. It also has no V2L or V2G capabilities (so far).

When can I order the new Tesla Model 3?

The Project Highland edition should be ready to order early 2024 via the Tesla website. Just check our dedicated Tesla leasing section for more details.