The 2020 Tesla Model 3 and On: Just Another Tesla?

The Tesla Model 3 has been around for years. How has the Model 3 evolved from 2020 onward?
Written by Andrew Kidd
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Tesla
introduced the Model 3 in 2017 as an electric vehicle for the masses—much like how Ford launched its iconic Model T to be an affordable vehicle for the people more than a century earlier.
The Model 3 has advanced through the years, what has the history of the car looked like from 2020 to today?

2020 Tesla Model 3

The 2020 Tesla Model 3 was, by some accounts, the best-selling luxury compact car in the U.S. in 2019. With a starting price of around $40,000, it was definitely on the low-end of the
cost spectrum
where "luxury" electric vehicles are concerned.
As
Kelley Blue Book
reports, the Model 3 wasn't intended to be luxurious—it's meant to be affordable relative to the rest of Tesla's lineup. But that doesn't mean it lacks the power or tech of its more expensive competitors.
The base Standard Range model, which started at $36,200, was only available via special order in-person at Tesla's dealerships. The rear-wheel-drive Model 3 Standard Range Plus, which started at $39,190, boasts 250 miles of range and a 0-to-60 time of 5.3 seconds. 
The Long Range model hits 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, while the Performance edition accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds—both with an estimated range of 322 miles and the hefty price tag that comes with.
MORE: How Much Does a Tesla Roadster Cost?
Let Jerry find your price in only 45 seconds
No spam · No long forms · No fees
Find insurance savings

2021 Tesla Model 3

While previous improvements to the Model 3 line have been mostly through minor tweaks to the vehicle itself and a slew of over-the-air software updates, Tesla made some noticeable updates to the Model 3 for 2021. 
In what
Car & Driver
called a mid-cycle refresh—Tesla doesn't adhere to traditional conventional model year rollouts—the automaker adjusted the exterior and interior styling, boosted its range and added some new convenience features.
New for 2021 included updated black trim replacing chrome for door handles and windows, as well as new wheel offerings for the Performance model. The interior saw a slight tweak as well with new trim for door handles, sill plates and more, while the introduction of a power trunk lid and wireless charging pads add to the convenience for the families and commuters it's geared toward.
The 2021 Model 3 also saw range improvements, with the Standard Range Plus model bumped up to 263 miles from 250, the Long Range model now at 353 miles versus its original 322 and an increase of 16 miles for the Performance at 315. Acceleration figures remain unchanged for this model year.

2022 Tesla Model 3

The 2022 Model 3 saw another boost in range, with its Long Range model now attaining 358 miles on a charge. The Standard Range model has been renamed Rear-Wheel Drive and uses new lithium-ion-phosphate batteries rather than the original nickel-cobalt-aluminum. With that new battery, Tesla upped the range of its base Model 3 to 272 miles compared with the previous year's 263.
As has long been an issue with Tesla vehicles, the fit and finish doesn't quite line up with expectations, especially at its price point. The 2022 Model 3 starts at $48,440—eye-watering compared with its originally promised $35,000 variant, which ended up being $36,000 and available only via special order, in-person, at a Tesla dealership. Performance-wise, it's identical to the previous two model years.
But this year's Model 3 was enough of an improvement that C&D named the 2022 Tesla Model 3 its 2022 Editors' Choice for electric car (though to be fair, the number of vehicles on that list makes it read like a What's What of Automotive).

Save on insurance for your Tesla

If you're planning to purchase a Tesla Model 3, make sure you're getting the best deal on insuring it. Because of their high repair costs, Tesla vehicles can be
notoriously expensive
to insure.
Luckily, you're in the right place! Car insurance comparison shopping and broker app
Jerry
can find you affordable Tesla car insurance. Jerry customers save an average of over $800 a year to insure their vehicle—and we can also save you some time by doing the grueling quote-finding work for you.
The Jerry app sources quotes from 55+ insurance companies like Nationwide, Safeco, Travelers, and more to find you the best deal.
Are you overpaying for car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
Try Jerry

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings