Tesla’s updates when they feel like it rather than at regular annual intervals makes a mockery out of a conventional annual model update.
The 3 was updated during the 2024 model year with some minor exterior revisions, improved cabin materials, ventilated front seats, a rear seat screen, additional sound proofing, moving the gear selector from the steering column to the infotainment screen and the turn signals have moved from a steering wheel stalk to the steering wheel itself. The Performance model is rated at 510 horsepower.

The 3 is very fast and pleasant to drive. Acceleration is astonishing and the drivetrain is serene. Very good handling on challenging roads. The brake pedal feels hard and a bit difficult to modulate. The 3 can easily be driven in one-pedal mode. The steering feels artificial, a bit too quickly geared with some minor inputs generating greater reaction than anticipated. The 3’s ride is turbulent with the optional 19 and 20 inch wheels. The standard 18 inch wheels deliver a more supple ride. The rear-wheel drive variant is rated for 584 kilometers in range, with all-wheel drive have a range of 550 kilometers. The Performance variant is rated for 478 kilometers in range.

The turn signal controls on the left side of the steering wheel haven’t met with universal approval. Other buttons on the right side of the steering wheel operate the windshield washer and the microphone for voice commands. The gear selector, now on the screen, is complemented by default emergency buttons on the ceiling, in case the screen system fails.

Once the darling of early adopters, the 3 has become long-in-the-tooth and its success has made it too ubiquitous for the early adopters to continue with. The recent controversies surrounding Elon Musk personally have also cast a shadow over the Tesla brand. A variety of more recent full-electric cars have also given BEV buyers greater choice.

Tesla’s once exclusive recharging network was a big plus for the firm and did make long-distance travel a practical proposition. However, Tesla has opened their charging network to other brands which may make it harder for Tesla owners to charge their cars on a trip.

The 3’s cabin is roomy enough up front but rear seat legroom is tight for this size of car. The cabin design is very Scandinavian-spare and elegant but the quality of the cabin materials is disappointing. The dashboard is low in profile and a continuous sweep from door to door. The sole element other than the steering wheel is a large, rectangular screen clipped to the centre of the dashboard. The screen looks great and is a low cost feature for Tesla but is distracting while driving. It is odd that a car with such an unusual driver-machine interface could have become so popular. Tesla could ease the situation with a head up display system but Tesla have not offered one. The 3 is topped by a fixed glass panel with no sunshade available. The trunk is acceptably spacious but its opening is very small.

The 3 was without competition for many years and sold phenomenally well. However, with more competition and the recent controversy surrounding Tesla have suddenly cast a shadow on Tesla sales and its future prosperity. The rear-wheel drive long range model starts at just under $60,000. Moving up to the dual-motor all-wheel drive variant costs $9000 extra, with the High-Performance version priced at $11,000 higher than the dual-motor long range model. Tesla’s website lacks a lot of information and it is surprising that so many people order a car given the opaque nature of what you are buying. Very generous government rebates were once available on some trims of the 3 but they have been withdrawn.

Average reliability predicted. Unique and complex technology. Parts supply can be quite sketchy. Poor paint durability, a clear protective wrap for the lower portions of the car, is a good idea. The flip-out door handles are fragile and the front suspension wears prematurely. Rapid tire wear due to the immense weight and high performance of the 3. The disc brakes can seize because the regenerative braking system does not engage the actual brakes as often as they would be worked on a conventional car. Disassembling and lubricating the calipers once or twice annually will help extend their lives. Doors can freeze in cold weather; pre-heating the car prior to entering it can help prevent the freezing. Tesla offers a home visit service system. The first service isn’t due until the two year mark.