A champion of efficiency and performance, Tesla's Model 3 continues on for 2023. Largely unchanged since it's release in 2018, we take a look at the newest Model 3 to see if it will be able to retain its position as the top-selling electric sedan in North America. Tesla has grappled with build quality over the years, and they've also upped their pricing. Let's see how the 2023 Model 3 stacks up to the competition.
2023 Tesla Model 3
- The original "affordable" all electric sedan
- Unparalleled driver assistance technology
- Up to 358 miles of range
- Trim: Base / Long Range / Performance
- Make: Array
- Model: Model 3
- Segment: Array
- Engine/Motor: Single/Dual Motor, 60, 75 or 82 kWh Lithium Ion Battery Pack
- Horsepower: 279 - 450 HP
- Torque: 330 - 471 LB-FT
- Drivetrain: RWD / AWD
- Transmission: 1-speed Direct Drive
- Range: 267-358 miles
- MSRP: $41,990-$52,990
- Segment leading efficiency
- Sporty performance model
- Spacious interior
- Fast charging with the established supercharger network
- Price increases mean the affordability for average consumers is slipping
- Long range model availability in question
2023 Tesla Model 3 Powertrain and Range
Tesla offers the Model 3 in three different configurations. The base model, named simply Model 3, is the only one with a RWD configuration. Tesla claims up to 277 miles of range out of the standard Model 3, although it can go down to 267 miles of range based on wheel selection. In the middle of the range lives the Model 3 Long Range, a dual motor AWD variant of the Model 3. As of writing, the fate of the Model 3 Long Range is a bit up in the air. Tesla has the option grayed out on their online design studio, and there are rumors circulating that they may not be available in 2023 based on production issues.
Assuming we do see a Model 3 Long Range for 2023, it should share the same specs as the 2022 model. That means 358 miles of range on a full charge, one of the highest numbers in the industry. If you're looking for an AWD Model 3, and you're not ready to gamble on waiting for a Long Range, you're in luck, the most exciting version of the Model 3 also happens to be AWD. The Model 3 Performance shares the same dual motor configuration as it's Long Range sibling, only the Performance sacrifices some range for overall athleticism. Tesla says that you should be able to get 315 miles of range from the Model 3 Performance, still not a slouch in the range department.
2023 Tesla Model 3 Performance And Handling
While there are certainly faster electric vehicles out now, the Model 3 was blisteringly quick when it was first released. Even today, 5 years later, the Model 3 Performance is quick enough to beat many gas powered sports cars. Tesla claims a 0-60 time of 3.1 seconds for the Performance, which is enough to best a 2003 Enzo Ferrari. Ok, not a fair comparison at all. But, a fun one to use as an example on just how far we've come in regard to acceleration numbers from EVs. Top speed on the Model 3 Performance is 162 mph, significantly lower than the Enzo.
With a 0-60 run in about 4.2 seconds, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range model is also very quick. Of course, repeated launches may eat into that 358 miles of range. Top speed on the Long Range is 145 mph. The base Model 3, in its single motor RWD layout, is not quite the drag race superstar that the Performance is. With a base Model 3, the 0-60 sprint will take 5.8 seconds, a little slower than a 1998 Acura Integra. Which actually feels like a much more fair comparison than the Ferrari. Although we doubt many people are pushing to get to the top speed of their RWD Model 3, it's worth listing that the max is very close to that of the Long Range, at 140 mph.
2023 Tesla Model 3 Features, Interior, And Technology
Tesla is a class leader in tech and the Model 3 is no exception. The Model 3 comes equipped with an impressive amount of technology as well as creature comforts as standard. Even the base model cars get heated seats, GPS navigation, wireless charging, as well as Tesla's infamous driver assist system, Autopilot. Tesla is often criticized as overselling the capability of Autopilot. However, the system constantly receives rave reviews from its loyal following. If the lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and auto braking of standard Autopilot aren't enough, drivers can opt for Enhanced Autopilot. This option allows the ability to navigate while on autopilot, including allowing your Model 3 to change lanes on its own. Buyers can also use Enhanced Autopilot to auto park (when you're in the vehicle) and to summon the Model 3 from it's parking spot remotely. If Enhanced Autopilot isn't quite enough, Tesla will also include Full Self Driving for an additional $15,000. This option gives the Model 3 all the previously mentioned capabilities, as well as the ability to detect traffic signals, giving the customer the closest thing to a self-driving car that's currently available to the public.
Beyond the glitz and glamour that the Autopilot system offers, the rest of the Model 3 interior is surprisingly minimal. The large center screen takes care of most functions that are available in the car. Speaking of minimalism, there are a few things that are missing from the Model 3 that users may find surprising. Among these, the lack of support for both CarPlay and Android Auto is probably the most disappointing. Users will also find that the Model 3 has no AM radio, as well as a lack of SiriusXM. To help combat these losses, Tesla equips their cars with many entertainment features that you won't find in other cars. The model 3 features built in arcade games, as well as YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu connectivity. All designed to keep you busy while charging, not for watching movies on the go.
2023 Tesla Model 3 Pricing And Availability
As we write this, wait time for a 2023 Tesla Model 3 is up to 3 months per the online ordering system. As mentioned, the Model 3 Long Range is currently not available for order. Pricing starts at $48,490 for a standard Model 3 and $62,990 for the Model 3 Performance. A fully loaded Model 3 Performance can go up to $80,990, plus a charger if you don't already have a place to charge your new Tesla.