Picture this: gears turning, steam hissing, and a dash of futuristic flair. The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive emerges from its workshop, having undergone a metamorphosis. It’s not just a refresh, it’s a full-blown renaissance.
Steampunk-inspired intro aside; with a blend of performance, technology, and affordability, the entry-level variant in Tesla’s line-up comes with significant upgrades, offering an excellent package for those looking to transition to an EV.
With a starting cost from $54,900 before on-road costs, it’s decent value too. That said, there’s some rivals, for sure, including Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 and 6, the Polestar 2 and BYD Seal. The Model 3 stands out with its sleek, minimalist design.
Sporting a low-profile stance, with aerodynamic lines and a subtle yet futuristic aesthetic, it’s visually appealing. This time round there’s updated headlights and taillights too. Inside, the Model 3 offers a spacious and modern cabin.
The 15-inch touchscreen atop the dash, which controls almost all vehicle functions, is the centre of attention. Everything from navigation to climate control, FM/DAB+ radio, satellite navigation, Bluetooth and voice control is all supported from here.
There is no instrument cluster either, with the speedo located in the top right corner of the screen, causing the driver to move their eyes left constantly. Ideally, a head-up display (HUD) would be helpful here, but there isn’t one.
The gear selector is managed on the screen or via the roof above the rear-view mirror. Selection can be clunky at times. The streamlined interface reduces button clutter and removes the indicator, wiper and cruise control function stalks but it’s not perfect.
Sure, it’s futuristic, but it takes some serious getting used to. On a positive note, the audio system has been improved, and now includes 17-speakers with two subwoofers, taking your listening pleasure to another level, with super crisp and clear sound.
The comfortable synthetic leather seats offer plenty of leg and headroom for front and rear passengers. The improved-quality materials throughout the cabin add a touch of luxury, while the panoramic glass roof provides an airy feel and maintains a quiet ambience inside.
There is 682-litres of cargo space between the rear and front boot. The Model 3 RWD operates with a single electric motor that delivers swift acceleration and smooth power. Instant torque means a 0-100km/h sprint in just 6.1 seconds.
Handling is sharp and responsive, thanks to the low centre of gravity provided by the floor-mounted battery pack. The steering is precise, and the car feels planted and stable around corners. The regenerative braking system is effective, providing strong deceleration.
The combination contributes to the car’s overall efficiency, enhancing the claimed 513km range. The increasing availability of generic and Tesla Supercharger stations allows for quick and convenient charging across various locations.
With supercharging capped at 170kW and managed through pay-per-use, the Tesla can put on up to 282km in 15 minutes. Over-the-air updates ensure the car’s software remains up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
The Model 3 RWD also comes with an array of driver assistance features, including autopilot. This system provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.
An enhanced autopilot option offers navigation, auto lane change, auto park, and smart summon for around $5,000. Full self-driving (FSD) capability (for an extra $10K) adds traffic light and stop sign control, and autosteer on urban streets.
With a five-star ANCAP rating, standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, automatic emergency braking, collision avoidance and a host more. Backed by a 4-year or 80,000km warranty, it comes in Sold Black and Pearl White Multi-Coat.
You can also opt for Deep Blue Metallic, Stealth Grey (as tested), and Ultra Red. You can find out more on the Tesla website or by talking to your local retail centre.
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Our test vehicle was provided by Tesla for independent review purposes.
My 2015 Tesla Model S still has a few manual controls (wipers, etc) but most of the rest of the things that occasionally need altering are missing, as is Tesla’s thing (I very much like the minimalistic theme). The one disadvantage that my S has is that the voice control is pretty awful. If the latest Model 3 has even less manual controls I must ask is the voice control any good? This is a very important question; as you say, trying to control everything through a touchscreen whilst driving is positively dangerous let alone inconvenient. However, if the voice control works very well then the lack of manual controls should be a very minor issue.
So, some sort of information on this would be a useful addition to an otherwise interesting review.