the devil is in the details

With the Model 3 redesign that took place late last year, Tesla has completely revamped its entry-level model. We are about to talk about a new generation considering the improvements made for quality, comfort and freedom. It’s really sad that it’s no longer worth getting the ecological bonus.

It has always been one of the trademarks of the American giant, able to adapt the reaction of a small startup to the scale of its industrial powerhouse. Teslas are not the only 100% efficient electric models on the market in terms of autonomy and utility. It also stays that way over time through remote software updates, but also and above all through regular mechanical upgrades. New engine configurations, new batteries, the range is constantly expanding and changing to continue establishing itself as a reference.

With more than two million units sold since its launch in 2017, the Model 3 has quickly become one of the best-selling models in the world. After a minor overhaul in 2021 aimed specifically at improving perceived quality, today it benefits from a more comprehensive overhaul. Phase 2 in short, finalized based on customer feedback. But not only. It has been modernized as well, to further push the vision of the Car envisioned by Tesla.

Tesla Model 3 – The most refined!

If at first glance the silhouette changes a bit, Tesla has nevertheless modified its Model 3 from top to bottom. This is in line with the philosophy favored by the American manufacturer looking for a deeper refinement of the lines. It starts with a sharp look and a sharp shield that now gives it the air of an English sportsman. Work done primarily for optimize aerodynamics and thus use, but also reduce air noise at high speeds.

It is also with this in mind that new aero rims appear in the catalog (18 inches on our test model). At the back, the lights now attached to the tailgate adopt a “lighter” signature to inspire the upmarket. Finally, Model 3 increases the height by 2.5 cm (4.72 m), the ground clearance decreases by 2 mm and the aerodynamic coefficient Cx increases from 0.23 to 0.219. It is enough to improve the autonomy of 20 to 40 km depending on the configurationwith that.

Tesla Model 3 – We love it or we hate it

The interior update is equally impressive as we discovered a more refined environment than before, made up of a very straight dashboard, with many divisions but more attractive than before. Indeed, the integration of mesh balance – adapted from the multimedia system – already seemed to us to be a wise idea. This time Tesla has completely removed the gear lever as well as comodos on either side of the steering wheel!

Gears (D, N, R), lights and windshield wipers (automatic) are now controlled from the central screen, in an intuitive manner. The turn signal controls take the form of buttons integrated directly into the steering wheel, a bit like a Ferrari. It is not the idea of ​​the century in terms of ergonomics yet. Especially when it comes to getting out of the loop with the steering wheel. But we must welcome an innovation-oriented approach. So cooler than really important.

In detail, the new central screen of 15.4 inches with refined edges remains the core of this complex. A true technological gem, well differentiated and fully responsive, which is still a pleasure to use. Under the latter, storage spaces remain large and plentiful. We also see that the quality of finishes in general is increasing, with the integration of new materials such as extruded aluminum, fabric and foamed plastic. We note that customizable ambient lighting now surrounds the entire cabin. Courage is also available with beautiful white leather upholstery, so shiny that you need to wear sunglasses! I hardly exaggerate.

Finally, at the back, we now get an 8-inch central screen completely different from the front system., which allows children to be taken. Room is excellent, but the low seat height invites you to stretch your legs under the front seats for good comfort. The trunk obviously remains a measure, with its volume of 594 liters. Especially since it is supported by the frunk of 88 liters located under the front hood. Very practical for charging cables, which can sometimes be a little messy.

Tesla Model 3 – Plus confortable

Model 3 is offered in two versions: Propulsion develops a power of 275 hp for a range of 513 km (57 kWh battery). But for this test we preferred its variant Long range showing 462 hp through two engines (one per axle) and a range of 678 km. and our 18-inch rims (629 km per 19-inch) thanks to its large 78.8 kWh battery.

Although we drive a lot of electric cars, Tesla still proves to be amazing in terms of its performance. With flawless traction, our machine takes down 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds (note that the maximum speed has decreased to 201 km / h). What power, and what feeling, put up with raised legs as in a sports car! However, the Long Autonomy version is far from being a featherweight with 1,828 kg.

We immediately notice that the chassis has also undergone minor improvements. Customers demanded more comfort. This is done throughvery visible suspension line. All in all it remains a bit tighter than most competitors, but the new settings are much appreciated around town, offering better error filtering. At the same time, reinforcement hooks are now integrated under the doors to help improve chassis rigidity (and overall reinforcement in the event of a side impact). So, Model 3 shows behavior on hilly roads that is still strong, though Tesla seems to have approved a more pronounced roll input. So, a better compromise.

The first passage on the highway also allows you to identifyimproved soundproofing through fully laminated glazing (even two panoramic roofs) and new sound absorbing seals. In general, driving has never been so pleasant. However, some defects have not been solved. The rear view remains as bad as ever. And the absence of an instrument cluster plus a head-up display still requires you to tilt your head towards the center screen to check the speed you’re traveling.

Tesla Model 3 – Always more

The autonomy for its part is still used as an unbeatable measure and consumption, certified at 14 kWh/100 km in the WLTP combined cycle and specified in 15.9 kWh/100 km on average. A desire that is always measured better than the competition (at least 2 kWh/100 km) allows you to travel almost 500 km on a single charge without any worries. In detail, it is very easy to fall under 12 kWh / 100 km for ville without much effort to drive eco. And obviously, usage is clearly increasing expressway where we saw 20.6 kWh/100 km.

A small side about standing up again, whose power cannot be changed. This allows you to get around the city on one foot, with a minimum of expectation. But once on the road, we certainly would have liked to be able to adjust its size using the paddles on the steering wheel. Extreme cleansing is not always so important. Even in these situations Autopilot still proves to be useful for a little rest.

More than that, the travel planner remains one of the criteria in terms of accuracy, improving travel times significantly. All fast charging stations are now displayed, even if Superchargers are preferred. Logically, taking a maximum charging power of 250 kW in direct current (11 kW in alternating current). It is enough to increase the battery level from 20 to 80% in just 25 minutes. That’s good, even if the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6 do better with their 800 V architecture.

Tesla Model 3 – With bonuses

In France, the Model 3’s main rival is of course the Model Y which will certainly benefit from the upcoming facelift. It is clear that the body of the SUV is more fashionable and offers advantages in terms of accommodation. More than that, unlike the Model 3 assembled in Shanghai, China, the Model Y is manufactured at the Giga Berlin factory in Germany., which still makes it eligible for the ecological bonus of 4,000 euros. At least in its entry-level Propulsion version (no government support over 47,000 euros) which – once the bonus is deducted – is now in the position of 2,000 euros cheaper than the Model 3 price from 42,990 euros.

The situation is different for Long Autonomy versions, which were not affected by government aid. Model 3 GA actually starts from 50,990 euros (ie -1000 euros vs the same Model Y). The offer has also been leveled against the Model 3 Propulsion, which now also has no bonus. So there is more food for thought than ever before…