How do the first few model years compare?
2017 Tesla Model 3: the peoples' EV
But while it helped ease range anxiety for the average motorist, C&D still considered the Model 3 to be lacking amenities with its strange controls, barren interior and a ride that left something to be desired.
But at least Tesla offered some perks with the Model 3, including the Performance trim which added all-wheel-drive and a horsepower boost from 346 to 450 compared with the Long Range iteration. The Long Range edition has an EPA-estimated 310 miles of range per charge compared with the base model's 220 miles.
The interior still left a lot to be desired. As C&D points out, the Model 3 has a functional, albeit stark, interior design with commuters and families in mind. The publication notes again that the Model 3 lacked a refined ride and has quirky controls while wide panel gaps betrayed questionable exterior build quality.
The 2019 Model 3 saw the standard inclusion of Tesla's Autopilot feature, as well as the introduction of the Performance Upgrade package for the Model 3 Performance This package decked the Model 3 out with improved brakes, 20-inch wheels, lowered suspension, and a top speed boost to 155 mph.
The Model 3 Performance has a 0-to-60 time of 3.5 seconds, while the Long Range Model can hit 60 in 5.1 seconds.
The 2019 model also saw a range boost. The Standard Range Plus model boasts 240 miles of range while the Long Range Model can hit 310 miles. However, when tested by C&D, the range figures didn't hold up to real world applications. Despite that, the publication remarked that the Model 3 features a similar range and semi-autonomous tech as the Model S but for half the price.
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