2020 Tesla Model 3: Setting the Standard
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 is the standard by which electric vehicles are measured, and it makes a compelling argument in favor of going green.
What’s New for the 2020 Tesla Model 3?
Unlike many vehicle manufacturers, where changes and revisions usually apply to a model year, Tesla follows an unconventional schedule. While redesigns and drivetrain changes adhere to a yearly norm, some features that can be done by a software update are often released as they become available.
With that said, the most notable changes for the 2020 Tesla Model 3 come to the trim packages. Most notably, the driving assistance features get revamped along with Tesla Theater and Smart Summon being added.
2020 Tesla Model 3 – netcarshow.com | Shop 2020 Tesla Model 3 on Carsforsale.com
The Breakdown
Above-average range for an EV
Excellent performance for the price
Packs of advanced tech
Continuous software updates/improvements
No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Touchscreen can be distracting while driving
No free access to Tesla Supercharging stations
We like the Smart Summon feature
2020 Model 3 Specs
- 283 horsepower from base setup
- Range of up to 310 miles
- 44-mile range per hour with fast charger
- 200 miles in 15 mins at Supercharger station
- 4 available trims
- 15 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- 15-inch multifunctional touchscreen panel
- Semi-autonomous driving
- 8-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
2020 Tesla Model 3 Powertrain
The Tesla Model 3 is hardly your ordinary car, and like all-electric vehicles, there is instant power on tap as soon as you push the pedal. Driving the 2020 Tesla Model 3 is an exhilarating experience and it comes in three flavors: fast, faster, and fastest. Even the base Standard Range Plus is no slouch, and it can sprint from 0-60 in 5.3 seconds. Stepping up to Long Range shaves about a second off that time while the Performance drops that figure down 3.2 seconds, which puts it in supercar territory for about half the price.
While the Model 3 is an excellent straight-line performer, it is surprisingly nimble despite weighing in at two tons. It also benefits from having the batteries located under the floor, which creates a low center of gravity. All Model 3’s are capable sports cars in the twisties, although the Performance takes it up a notch with its tuned suspension and stickier tires.
Simply put, the 2020 Tesla Model 3 is the benchmark by which other EVs are measured. It offers muscle car performance and punches well above its price range. Not to mention, at $60,000, the Performance 3 is a bargain. While other manufacturers have joined the party and begun to offer EVs, they have a way to go before they catch up to Tesla.
Tesla Model 3 Battery Charging & Range
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 is one of the longest-range electric vehicles out there, and it has an excellent EPA MPGe rating that varies between 118 to 148 in the city and 107 to 132 on the highway. Likewise, even the Standard Range Plus has a 250-mile range with the Long Range and Performance raising that number to 322 and 310, respectively. However, these figures should be taken with a grain of salt as the estimated range for all EVs is under ideal circumstances and real-world figures can often be less.
Where Tesla has a leg up on the competition is charging options. They have an ever-expanding network of Superchargers that can add up to 200 miles of range in 15 minutes. If there are none nearby, you can still use a destination charger or the optional home-charger (requires a 240-volt connection), which can replenish the battery at a rate of up to 44 miles per hour charged. Lastly, you can top off with the standard 120-volt connector, although it recharges at a much slower rate of up to three miles per hour charged.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 does not have your average interior, and depending on your point of view, you could say it is simplistic or futuristic. We look at it as a combination of the two, and starting with the former, the first thing you will notice is that all of the typical buttons, knobs, and switches found in other cars are noticeably absent. In fact, everything from the A/C to the seating is controlled by a 15-inch touchscreen panel, which also means on-the-fly adjustments can be a minor distraction.
From a comfort standpoint though, the front leather seats are comfortable and supportive. Likewise, there is ample leg and headroom for the front-seat occupants. On the other hand, the rear seats are not as supportive and can be uncomfortable for adults on longer trips. Not to mention, legroom could be better.
While the Model 3’s rear seats come up short on space, it makes up for it in terms of cargo capacity. Sure, it will not replace a SUV, but its 15 cubic feet of trunk space will suffice for most. Likewise, it opens up considerably when you fold down the split rear seats and can swallow up a medium-sized mountain bike. Also, under the hood where the engine would normally sit, there is an additional storage cubby commonly referred to as a “frunk”.
Entertainment & Technology
It goes without saying that technology is one of Tesla’s strong suits. The Model 3’s navigation system has Google maps integration and pulls data in real-time, thus keeping you up to date on the latest traffic conditions. In addition, Tesla’s advanced driving-assistance system (ADAS) is one of the best out there. For example, the Enhanced Autopilot can operate the throttle, brakes, change lanes, and park the vehicle. There are also planned updates that will allow the 2020 Tesla Model 3 to react to traffic lights and road signs.
For passing time (when parked or charging, of course), you can access streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu on the touchscreen display. However, the infotainment system lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
One feature we really like, albeit gimmicky, is Smart Summon. You can have your car drive to you by using the Tesla app, although it must be in visual range. It is a neat little feature that highlights the advanced tech that the Model 3 has to offer.
Safety Features
The Tesla Model 3 receives an excellent five-star NHTSA safety rating. However, what sets it apart is the ADAS, especially in this price range. Among the standard features are automatic emergency braking, sensors on all sides of the vehicle, front and side collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a rear-view camera. Likewise, as mentioned above, a fully autonomous tech package can be added, albeit it still requires human intervention.
2020 Tesla Model 3 Trims & Pricing
Standard Range Plus – $39,190
Offered in RWD, the 2020 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus has an estimated range of 250 miles and nets you a glass sunroof, power and heated leather seats, and a 15-inch touchscreen display. It also includes the following driver’s assistance features: automatic external cameras on all sides of the vehicle, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and assisted steering. Likewise, all trims can be equipped with an optional self-driving package.
Long Range – $48,190
The Model 3 Long Range receives larger battery packs, dual electric motors, and has a longer 322-mile range. It is offered in AWD or RWD and comes with a few extra standard features like a premium sound system and heated rear seats.
Performance – $56,190
The Performance uses the same batteries and motors as the Long Range model, albeit with different tuning. Likewise, it is available in RWD and AWD configurations with a slightly lower range of 310 miles. In addition, it includes a few performance-oriented upgrades like better brakes, a tuned suspension, different wheels, a carbon fiber spoiler, and a track driving mode.
Warranties
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 is covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and 8-years/100,000 of powertrain coverage (120,000 for the Long Range). Tesla does not offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
What we think
2020 Tesla Model 3 – netcarshow.com | Shop 2020 Tesla Model 3 on Carsforsale.com
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 is a well-rounded package with excellent range, performance, and comes with one of the best semi-autonomous driving systems out there. If you are in the market for a performance-oriented electric vehicle, there are no close seconds in this price range.
