2025 Tesla Model 3: Comprehensive Review & Ownership Guide

Published on: Mon Jan 27 2025

2025 Tesla Model 3: The Electric Sedan That Redefined the Market

The Tesla Model 3 practically invented the electric compact sedan category and remains a highly appealing choice for EV shoppers. The recent “Highland” updates to the Model 3 addressed some of our biggest gripes with the car, making it an even more attractive option in the competitive electric vehicle market.

Performance & Driving Experience

Acceleration & Power

As with most EVs, the Model 3 gains speed swiftly, smoothly, and almost silently, with the electric motor providing a strong punch from a stop. The car is quick—extremely so in some trims. Like all Teslas (and most other EVs), the Model 3 carries its battery under the floor, resulting in a low center of gravity that helps it change direction crisply and feel planted and stable in corners.

Performance Specifications:

• Rear-wheel-drive Long Range: 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds
• All-wheel-drive Long Range: Estimated 0-60 mph in under 4.0 seconds
• Performance trim: 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds (510 horsepower combined)

Handling & Ride Quality

The steering is accurate and well-weighted, with three different settings that adjust the level of effort. The ride is firm without being harsh, and the cabin is notably quieter than before in our testing. The new-for-2024 Performance trim ups the ante with a host of upgrades, including the only Model 3 that comes with a sport-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers.

Range & Charging Capabilities

Driving Range

Three distinct Model 3 trims are offered, each with a different estimated driving range:

• Rear-wheel-drive Long Range: 363 miles estimated range
• All-wheel-drive Long Range: 346 miles estimated range
• Performance: 296 miles per charge

Real-World Testing Results: In our 75-mph highway range test, the rear-wheel-drive Model 3 Long Range achieved 310 miles, while the Performance model achieved 260 miles. These results show that real-world highway range falls short of the advertised numbers but still beats many other EVs.

Charging Options

The Model 3 offers several different options for charging:

• Tesla’s network of fast-charging stations (Superchargers)
• Adapters for DC public-charging stations
• 240- and 120-volt outlets
• Home-charging station compatibility

Interior Design & Technology

Minimalist Interior Philosophy

We’re not exaggerating when we say that the Tesla Model 3 has an interior unlike any other (non-Tesla) car on the market today. It’s shockingly simple inside, with nearly everything controlled by the monolithic touchscreen in the center of the dashboard.

Interior Highlights:

• Low, flat floor creates a spacious and airy feel
• Front seats are supportive and comfortable
• Generously sized bins and cubbies throughout the cabin
• 60/40 split rear seats fold easily, expanding trunk space for 15 carry-on suitcases

Infotainment & Connectivity

Navigation, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity are standard, but the Model 3 is oddly not available with AM radio or SiriusXM satellite radio. Several internet-streaming radio options are standard, and it also can’t be equipped with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

Entertainment Features:

• Netflix, YouTube, and arcade games for charging-station layovers
• 8.0-inch touchscreen mounted to the rear of the center console for rear-seat passengers
• Access to climate control and infotainment features

Pricing & Value Proposition

Current Pricing Structure

The price of the 2025 Tesla Model 3 starts at $44,130 and goes up to $56,630 depending on the trim and options:

• Long Range RWD: $44,130 (Recommended)
• Long Range AWD: $49,130 (Recommended)
• Performance: $56,630

Tesla has dropped the Standard Range model, previously the least expensive Model 3, from the lineup.

Value Assessment

Recent updates make the Model 3 an even more attractive small EV option. The suspension improvements that smooth out the ride are appreciated, as are the nicer interior materials. These updates helped it secure a spot on Car and Driver’s 10Best list this year.

Ownership Costs & Maintenance

The total cost of owning a Tesla Model 3 over five years is estimated to be around $58,530. This figure can fluctuate based on the specific trim, driving habits, and location. While the initial purchase price can be high, the lower running costs for maintenance and “fuel” make the total cost of ownership competitive with other luxury sedans.

Key Cost Components

• Depreciation: This is the most significant factor, with an estimated depreciation of around $31,505 over five years.
• Insurance: Insurance costs for a Model 3 are a notable expense, averaging about $3,022 per year.
• Charging (Fuel): Charging costs are a major advantage. An average driver might spend about $500 per year on charging, a fraction of the cost of gasoline for a comparable luxury car. Some owners report spending as little as $225 over 12,000 miles by utilizing home charging. The various versions of the Model 3 are rated between 113 MPGe and 138 MPGe by the EPA. Our RWD Long Range test vehicle managed 128 MPGe on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, while the Performance model managed 91 MPGe.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, maintenance costs are significantly lower. The average annual maintenance cost is about $237, totaling around $1,183 over five years.

Maintenance Schedule

The Model 3’s electric drivetrain simplifies maintenance by eliminating the need for oil changes, spark plugs, and emission checks. Regenerative braking also reduces wear on brake pads. Tesla recommends service on an as-needed basis, with the following specific checks:

• Tire Rotation: Every 6,250 - 12,000 miles. Due to the vehicle’s weight and instant torque, tires may wear faster than on a typical ICE car.
• Brake Fluid Check: Every 4 years.
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Every 2 years.
• Clean and Lubricate Brake Calipers: Annually, especially in regions where road salt is used.
• A/C Desiccant Bag Replacement: Every 6 years for pre-2021 models.

Over ten years, the estimated maintenance and repair cost is approximately $3,258, which is significantly lower than the industry average for luxury sedans.

Warranty Coverage

Tesla’s overall warranty coverage is among the longest in the EV segment:

• Limited warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty: Eight years or 100,000 miles
• Long Range model: Additional 20,000 miles of coverage for battery and drive components
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

Reliability

The Tesla Model 3’s reliability is generally considered average to good, with improvements in later model years. J.D. Power has given recent models an “Average” reliability rating of 74/100, and Consumer Reports has recommended the car, noting improved reliability over time.

However, some common issues have been reported, particularly in earlier models (e.g., 2018):

• Build Quality: Inconsistent panel gaps, paint imperfections, and misaligned trim have been frequent complaints.
• Suspension Noises: Creaking or clunking sounds, often related to control arms or ball joints.
• Software and Touchscreen: The central touchscreen is critical for most functions, and issues like freezing, lagging, or “phantom braking” have been reported. Tesla addresses many of these with over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
• Battery and Charging: While generally robust, some owners have experienced premature battery degradation or charging-related problems.

Many of these issues, especially cosmetic ones, are often covered under warranty. The core components like the battery and drivetrain are generally considered reliable.

Used Market Guide

The used Tesla Model 3 market has become more accessible due to depreciation, with average prices around $23,655. When buying a used Model 3, it is crucial to inspect several key areas:

• Battery Health: This is the most critical component. Check the car’s maximum range at a 100% charge to assess degradation. The battery is covered by an 8-year/100,000-120,000 mile warranty, guaranteeing at least 70% capacity retention.
• Build Quality: Thoroughly inspect the exterior for panel gaps, paint issues, and trim alignment. Check the glass roof for any chips or cracks.
• Software and Features: Verify which Autopilot version is installed (Basic, Enhanced, or Full Self-Driving). FSD is a costly software option, and it’s more economical to buy a car with it already enabled.
• Common Issues: Listen for suspension noises. Check for condensation in the light housings and ensure the reversing camera works correctly. Control arm issues are a known problem in earlier models.
• Warranty: Check the remaining basic and battery/drive unit warranty.

A pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with EVs is highly recommended to ensure you are getting a quality vehicle.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Autopilot System

Although we think the name Autopilot is misleading, the driver-assist system has one of the best feature sets in the industry, with smooth operation and impressive capabilities such as automatic lane changes.

Key Safety Features:

• Standard automated emergency braking
• Standard lane-departure warning
• Standard adaptive cruise control

Pros & Cons Summary

Highs

• Swift acceleration in all configurations
• Improved ride comfort with Highland updates
• Plenty of driving range
• Low center of gravity for excellent handling
• Comprehensive charging network

Lows

• Controls rely too heavily on the touchscreen
• Real-world range comes up shy of ratings
• Autopilot still not true to its name
• Rear seats are cramped and uncomfortable for adults
• No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility

Verdict

Recent updates make the Model 3 an even more attractive small EV option. The Highland refresh addressed many of our previous concerns while maintaining the car’s core strengths. For those seeking a premium electric sedan with excellent performance and a comprehensive charging network, the Model 3 remains a compelling choice in the luxury EV segment.

The Model 3 continues to set the standard for what an electric sedan should be, combining impressive performance, practical range, and cutting-edge technology in a package that appeals to both luxury car enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.