The 2022 Tesla Model 3 mixes everyday practicality and approachability with unmatched speed, utility, and technology.
For 2022, Tesla is using a different kind of battery for the Model 3 Rear-Wheel-Drive (which was called the Standard Range last year). Range actually gets a boost to an EPA estimated 272 miles. The all-wheel-drive version also sees an increase to 358 miles of total range.
2022 Tesla Model 3 – tesla.com | Shop 2022 Tesla Model 3 on Carsforsale.com
Bleeding-edge technology
Outstanding range
Top-tier performance
Expensive and limited options list
No long qualified for Fed Tax Credit
No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay
A $35K model can come out any time now
Every Model 3 is a fun driver regardless of the powertrain. The slowest in the bunch still zips from 0-60 in just 5.8-seconds which is on par or better than its rivals. Despite a relatively high curb weight, the Model 3 is quick to change direction and handles hard cornering fairly well. Instant torque makes it hilariously fun to drive too because not only can it throw you back whenever you feel like it, but it can also get into gaps in traffic that internal combustion cars could only dream of.
We really appreciate the upgraded brakes on the Performance model as they make a big difference during hard driving. Of course, you need that kind of braking power when the car you’re driving can do that 0-60 dance in 3.1-seconds, or as fast as a Mercedes AMG GT S. Frankly, when it comes to small electric sedans, it’s been in a class of its own for a long while. Of course, that may soon change as challengers from Mercedes, BMW, and Kia are now in production.
There aren’t any rivals of the Model 3 that can match its EPA estimated range of at least 272-miles of range. While we haven’t had the chance to test one with regard to range itself, it should be noted that many others haven’t been able to match what the EPA says the Model 3 can achieve.
We really like the almost brutalist interior of the Model 3. It’s so clean and so simple and completely bucks contention in favor of a truly clean-sheet design. At the same time, there will be a great many who dislike that same styling for the same reasons we like it. Those coming to the Model 3 from traditional cars will likely face a learning curve as they adjust to the way that almost everything is controlled from the central infotainment screen. In addition, we found the interior to be a bit noisy compared to some more recently released rivals.
While the materials used in the Model 3 are mostly nice, the fit and finish could use more attention. We’re also a bit disappointed in the lack of interior options. Buyers can choose from white or black and that’s it. That’s fine on the base model but for the $58,990 Performance trim, it should be a lot more special. Cargo space is a highlight in the Model 3. Thanks to an open and airy design, the cabin can adapt to suit very large objects when needed and the additional space in the front trunk is a nice bonus.
No brand on the planet is really keeping up with Tesla when it comes to their infotainment system. Sure, Mercedes and BMW have bigger screens now but they cost so much more than the Model 3 RWD that they can’t really be considered equals. At 15-inches from corner to corner, the screen in the Model 3 is big, bright, and blazingly fast to respond to touches.
We also love that this car gets updates on a regular basis that improve it in one way or another. Tesla has added features throughout the history of the Model 3 and oftentimes owners simply wake up to their car being better than it was the day before. That’s very hard to beat.
No discussion of a Tesla can be totally complete without addressing Autopilot and Full Self Driving. Both of these autonomous driving programs are very impressive and capable despite reports to the contrary. At the same time, their names don’t truly match their abilities and constant attention is required to use either technology safely.
The Model 3 is well known to be one of the best safety cars in its class. Not only did the NHTSA give it a five-star crash test rating, but the IIHS also awarded the Model 3 it’s highest honor, the Top Safety Pick+ treatment.
As the base Model 3, the Rear-Wheel Drive comes with you guessed it, rear-wheel drive, and makes 283-horsepower from its single motor. It also comes with a 110V compatible Mobile Connector Bundle, a glass roof, a 15-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, wireless device charging, heated front seats, and heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Every Model 3 comes with Tesla Autopilot which is a full suite of driver assistance aids including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. Buyers can opt for Tesla’s “Full Self Driving” package for $12,000 which adds a great deal of autonomous functionality. The maximum charging speed for the RWD Model 3 is 170kW.
Opt for the Long Range version of the Model 3 (358 miles) and you’ll get a motor for the front axle which turns this sedan into an all-wheel-drive cruiser with 449-horsepower. Aside from that, this trim also gets a faster maximum charging speed of up to 250Kw as well as a 13-speaker premium audio system, floor mats, and a 11.5-kW onboard charger.
Jump up to the fastest Model 3 and you’ll still use the same drivetrain from the Long Range but with more power and less range (315 miles). It also comes with a sport suspension, high-performance brakes, a track mode, 20-inch wheels, and aluminum pedals.
Tesla offers a four-year or 50,000-mile limited warranty and an eight-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty on every Model 3. That’s about average for the segment if not a bit above average. It should be noted that newer rivals like the Kia EV6 offer more coverage at a lower overall cost.
2022 Tesla Model 3 – carsforsale.com| Shop 2022 Tesla Model 3 on Carsforsale.com
I really like the Model 3 because it’s a seriously fantastic car in almost every regard. There are issues like poorly fitting interior panels and limited options to make your car stand out but if you can get past those issues, the Model 3 is a fantastic EV sedan.