Tesla Model 3 Review: Is This the EV Everyone’s Talking About?

Key Takeaways

• Tesla Model 3 review: The Model 3 is one of the best Tesla cars because it has an amazing interior, technology, and a stylish look that will appeal to electric car fans. But is the Model 3 really worth it? Let’s find out!
• With amazing power (from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds for AWD types), the Tesla Model 3 is a smooth car that's fantastic for both short trips and long travel. Want to know how it handles Australia’s unique road conditions? Keep reading.
• With prices starting at AUD 54,900, the Model 3 is an affordable price, especially since Australia may offer benefits for buying electric vehicles. Could this be the way of the future for cheap luxury? Figure out more about the worth and costs of all versions.

1. Design and Interior

Yeah! Everyone agrees that exterior and exterior quality are the top important criteria for choosing a suitable car, right? Below is the Tesla Model 3 review on this criterion with the latest update!

Exterior Design

At first look, the Tesla Model 3 has truly a sleek, simple style that fits with today's tastes. There is a smooth front face and inset door handles that give it an aerodynamic shape that helps it run efficiently.

The Tesla Model 3 is a true minimalist in terms of design.

For the Australian market, the design is mostly the same as the foreign models, with a focus on style and functionality for a range of road conditions. The LED lamps and unique light signature make it look even more modern.

Interior Quality

Inside, the Model 3 has a basic interior controlled mainly by just a 15-inch touchscreen handling almost all vehicle operations. Standard heated seats and vegan leather upholstery allow the roomy layout to provide comfortable seating for five.

Although some evaluations claim the materials, and quality may be different from classic luxury competitors, Australian owners like its large front and back seats. The panoramic glass roof links travellers to the outside and enhances their feeling of expanse.

For EV fans looking for innovation above conventional luxury, Tesla's unusual focus on simplicity and tech-forward design makes the Model 3 a favourite.

2. Performance and Driving Experience

Acceleration and handling conditions

The Tesla Model 3 offers a lively driving experience that is perfect for Australia's varied landscapes. The rear-wheel drive (RWD) version speeds up easily and quickly, hitting 100 km/h in about 6.1 seconds. This makes it perfect for driving in cities.

Acceleration and handling conditions

The dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) models, especially the Performance model, have amazing power, going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds. This makes it an exciting choice for Tesla fans. Australian drivers love how well it handles, and the low centre of gravity from the battery under the floor makes it even better.

Battery Performance and Driving Dynamics

The Tesla Model 3 has a lot of great range choices. The RWD can go up to 491 km, and the Long Range AWD can go up to 602 km (WLTP). These numbers work well for Australia's long roads and city lines. 

When traffic is stop-and-go, regenerative stopping makes the car more efficient. The two motors in AWD models make them more stable and traction-enhancing on wet or bumpy roads, which makes them ideal choices for a wide range of situations in Australia.

3. Range and Charging in Australia

Australian Model 3 Range Details

Due to its long range and energy efficiency, the Tesla Model 3 has become a popular choice for drivers in Australia. It gets a good 491 km per charge (WLTP) with the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) version. 

For people whose primary need for their car is to get to and from work in the city or for short trips within the area, this makes it an excellent option. Daily drives in big places like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are easy for drivers who don't have to think about charging their cars often. 

As one Melbourne driver explained, "I never have to recharge during the week; it easily handles my daily city commute."

Range and Charging in Australia

For those looking to drive longer distances, such as between cities, the Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD) version is an excellent choice, with an impressive 602 km per charge. This gives drivers the flexibility to go on road trips or take extended drives with fewer stops for charging. 

For example, driving from Sydney to Melbourne (approximately 900 km) becomes a breeze with minimal charging stops along the way. 

If you're looking for a combination of sporty performance and practicality, the Performance AWD model provides 547 km of range. It delivers faster acceleration and a more engaging driving experience while still offering enough range for everyday use and weekend getaways. 

Charging Options and Supercharger Network

The Tesla Model 3 offers several charging options to suit the needs of Australian owners. The most convenient is charging at home using a Tesla Wall Connector. This home charging station is faster than using a standard outlet, making it easier to start each day with a fully charged battery. 

For drivers who need to charge on the go, public charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly across Australia. Tesla has built a growing Supercharger network that spans major cities and key highways. 

There are Superchargers in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and other cities, as well as on major highways like the Hume and Pacific Highways. These places are wonderful for long drives between towns and have fast charging options.

The supercharger's rapid charging might boost your car's range.

You can quickly add range to your car with the Supercharger network's fast charging. Like, a Long Range AWD Model 3 can gain up to 275 km of range in just 15 minutes. This makes long trips easier and faster, and you can take short breaks without having to worry about waiting for a long time at charging locations. 

"I love how fast the Superchargers work," a Tesla Model 3 review australia said a traveller. "My car is ready to go, and I can stop for coffee."

In addition, the growing availability of Tesla Superchargers ensures that long trips can be completed without worrying about finding a place to charge. These rapid-charging stations are strategically located, making it easier to plan road trips across the country. 

4. Technology and Features

Autopilot and Infotainment Features

For the Tesla Model 3 review’s tech part, The Tesla Model 3 has cutting-edge Autopilot technology built in. This includes elements like adaptive speed control, emergency stopping, and lane-keeping assist. These things make driving safer, especially on highways. 

Upgraded Full Self-Driving (FSD) packages are available from Tesla for people who want to seek more autonomy. As part of the FSD package, you get Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control for traffic lights and stop signs and Navigate on Autopilot for automatic lane changes. With these additions, the Model 3 is even easier to use and safer, especially when going long distances.

Autopilot and Infotainment Features

One of the best things about the car is the entertainment system. There is a 15-inch touchscreen that handles most of the car's features. This screen lets you handle everything from the weather to the media and navigation.

A high-performance engine powers the system and makes exchanges smooth and quick. For navigation, the system gives you up-to-date traffic information and makes it easy to plan your journey. 

It also works with streaming apps like Netflix and Spotify, which keep people interested. Tesla Arcade also has gaming choices, so both drivers and passengers can play games while the car is still.

Australia-Specific Features

Tesla has tailored the Model 3 for the Australian market. The navigation system features Australian maps, highlighting local Supercharger stations and other charging points. This makes it easier for Australian drivers to plan longer trips, especially in remote areas where charging stations may be fewer.

Australia's vast landmass makes electric vehicles tougher to use, but Tesla offers a route planner that works around these issues. Distance, recharge stations, and rural roads are considered by the system. It also keeps vehicles on the quickest path even when distant from cities.

The Model 3 also offers streaming services suited to Australian preferences. It supports Spotify, Apple Music, and local radio stations, which enhance the in-car media experience. 

Additionally, Tesla frequently releases over-the-air software updates, ensuring compliance with Australian regulations. These updates bring new features and optimisations tailored to local drivers, further enhancing the ownership experience.

5. Price and Value for Money

Price Comparison of Tesla Model 3 Trims

In Australia, the Tesla Model 3 offers several trims, each with its own price and features:

• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Starts at AUD 54,900
• Long Range AWD: Priced at AUD 64,900
• Performance AWD: Starts at AUD 80,900

These prices reflect the most current figures available for 2024, including the standard features, performance capabilities, and range options. Depending on the trim, the range can extend from around 455 km for the RWD to 533 km for the Long Range AWD.

Some EV Incentives, Tax Credits, and Financial Benefits Info You Should Know About: 

Australian buyers can take advantage of a number of EV discounts that are meant to lower the cost of electric cars. Some states, like New South Wales and Victoria, offer benefits to buy electric vehicles, such as no stamp duty exemptions, refunds, or tax credits. 

Some places also offer lower licensing fees or access to special charging stations, especially for cars like the Tesla Model 3. The Federal Government encourages people to buy electric vehicles by giving businesses refunds and tax breaks to people who switch to low-emission cars.

6. Pros and Cons

From the above specific analysis of the Tesla Model 3 review, it's time for us to summarise the Pros and Cons of this famous car. Let's explore!

Pros

• Impressive Range and Fuel Economy: The Tesla Model 3 is known for having a great range, up to 533 km on a single charge with the Long Range AWD trim. This makes it perfect for long trips across Australia, like the famous road from Sydney to Melbourne.
• Advanced Technology: Tesla has some of the best entertainment and Autopilot systems in the business. The car gets regular software changes that make features better, like tracking and safety improvements. This keeps the vehicle up to date.
• Fast Charging and the Supercharger Network: As Australia's Tesla Supercharger network grows, owners can enjoy faster charging times, which is especially helpful for long trips through rural places.
• Low upkeep Costs: The Model 3 has fewer working parts and needs less upkeep than standard cars with internal combustion engines, which saves customers dollars in the long run.

Tesla Model 3 Review: Pros and Cons

Cons

• Price: Some Australian consumers may find the Model 3's initial pricing prohibitive since the Performance AWD grade starts at around AUD 80,900. The Model 3 still faces competition from luxury sedans and other electric cars, even with incentives.
• Interior Materials: Though the cabin has a simple, understated look, some reviewers point out that, particularly at the higher price tiers, the inside materials do not feel as luxurious as rivals like the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4.
• Ride Comfort: Particularly in comparison to some other EVs in the same class, the suspension, maximised for performance, might feel stiff, which could affect comfort on bumpy or uneven Australian roads.
• Problems with the Build Quality: Tesla has made changes, but some owners have said that the build quality still needs to be improved. For example, there are gaps between panels and paint imperfections that can affect the general finish. 

7. Customer Reviews and Expert Opinions

Some customers suggest improvements, but most of the time, both customer comments and expert Tesla Model 3 reviews in Australia praise the car's innovative technologies and great performance.

A lot of Australian drivers love the Model 3 because it has modern features and is easy to drive. This car is suitable for long-distance driving because it has a long-range, good battery life, and access to the Supercharger Network.

Its high-tech features, like the big tablet and autopilot, and its simple interior make it worth admiring. Still, some owners say the ride is stiff and the driving is too rough for some, even though it's quick.

Experts have also said nice things about the Model 3, giving it high marks for speed and battery life. The dual-motor versions are best for people who want a more lively driving experience because they handle and accelerate better.

Even so, Tesla's critics point out that the company's frequent price changes may annoy potential buyers and make the cost less predictable. The Model 3 does, however, offer outstanding value for money when compared to other EVs on the market in terms of its technology, range, and speed.