2023 Tesla Model 3

First introduced to the USA in 2017 and receiving a few updates through the years, the Tesla Model 3 sedan has been another hit for the EV giant. This compact executive sedan is very similar in concept to the larger Model S sedan, but its smaller dimensions and a more affordable price set it apart; at the time of writing, it's one of only two Tesla models you can buy starting under $50,000.

The range starts with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive variant. Those hungry for more power will be more interested in the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive versions. In all cases, the batteries are mounted below the cabin floor in the established Tesla fashion. The rear-motor Model 3 sends 257 horsepower to the rear wheels, while the dual-motor Performance produces around 430 hp, sent to all four wheels. Performance is commensurately rapid, with the 0-60 mph dash taking place in as little as 3.1 seconds and a top speed of up to 162 mph in the Performance model. The driving range is no less impressive, ranging from an EPA-rated 272 miles in the RWD variant to around 325 miles in the Long Range model. The new Tesla Model 3 sedan doesn't have its market segment to itself anymore, however. BMW has recently released the i4 in the USA, and the Polestar 2 looks like good value in this company. For now, however, it's the Tesla that continues to lead the way on the sales charts.

Tesla has altered the cost of the Model 3 several times recently, so what you see here may be subject to change.

The cheapest model is the Model 3 RWD, which starts at a base MSRP of $40,240 before a $1,390 destination charge. While that delivery fee is a little lofty, various tax incentives and rebates can cancel it out and even bring the price down slightly. Long Range models are priced from $47,240, and the Performance costs $53,240.

A $250 non-refundable order fee secures the build of your chosen model. Among the incentives that could be applicable to you include the $1,500 Clean Fuel Reward for residents in California. Tesla also intends to meet the requirements of the new Inflation Reduction Act, which promises tax credits for the Model 3.

Any review of the Tesla Model 3 tends to focus on its straight-line performance, but this sedan is much more than that. Apart from the lack of a distinctive aural signature due to the absence of an internal combustion engine, the 2023 Tesla Model 3 offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience. Part of the secret here is the extremely low center of gravity brought about by the low-mounted batteries, which gives a sense of eagerness to change direction that is largely at odds with the Model 3's weight.

As a result, cornering is flat and effortless, and, while the steering wheel doesn't give any feedback from the road surface, the steering is direct, the handling balance is neutral, and the grip levels are high. Very good ride comfort is a surprising feature in the Tesla Model 3, thanks in part to the vehicle's weight simply smothering bumps, and most road surface disturbances are handled without fuss or jolting.

Performance is, however, the main selling point in a Tesla Model 3, because even the entry-level variant with a single motor manages to hit 60 mph from a standstill in less than six seconds. The twin-motor Performance is obviously much quicker and will straight-up embarrass most sports cars in a drag race.

When the Tesla Model 3 first landed in 2017, it was a revelation in many respects. But, while even the older Model 3s had stunning performance and all-round capabilities, those earlier ones weren't as well-made and properly debugged as you'd want for the price. However, the engineers at Tesla have spent the intervening years fine-tuning the Model 3 into a formidable car that's difficult to fault. In its current guise, this is a very good car and still a leader in its market segment. Its performance and range remain highlights, and Tesla's regular software updates have helped to keep it competitive. That being said, Tesla Model 3 competitors from legacy automakers are continuing to chip away at its lead with products that are fresher, more luxurious, and in some cases, cheaper. It remains to be seen whether the Model 3 can retain its crown for much longer.

The choice here will largely depend on your requirements, but for most, there's no need to upgrade from the base model. Its range of 272 miles is respectable, and its acceleration is good enough for most. Stepping up to the Long Range is smart for those who want 325 miles per charge, AWD, and quicker charging speeds. Regardless, we would highly recommend opting to spend 15 grand to gain access to all of the Autopilot/Full Self-Driving features, as well as be granted access to future upgrades over the air. With this, you have a good EV with decent range and a price that is around $62,000 (if you choose the Long Range), even without taking rebates into account.