When it comes to driving the 2024 Tesla Model 3, the most noticeable change is the rearranged controls. Similar to the Tesla Model S, the stalks on the steering column have been removed. Instead, the car now predicts your intended direction and asks for confirmation by tapping the brake pedal. There is also a backup slider on the touch screen. The new steering wheel features haptic buttons for controlling lights, indicators, wipers, and cruise control. While it works well, it is not quite as convenient as the traditional stalk controls.
In the back seats, there is a new 8.0-inch touchscreen with integrated air vents on the back of the center console. This allows passengers to adjust ventilation, heated seats, and enjoy movies and videos.
In terms of safety, the doors have been reinforced to provide better protection in the event of a side impact. As a result, they close with a more solid sound.
The lack of refinement and perceived quality used to be the main criticisms of the Tesla Model 3. Although these updates do not surpass the BMW i4 in those aspects, Tesla has made significant improvements.
Meanwhile, Tesla excels in electric drivetrain technology. The battery capacity and charging speeds remain the same, with the standard car offering 170kW and the Long Range version offering 250kW.
The lower drag coefficient of 0.219 improves efficiency, resulting in a claimed increase in range by 5-8%. On the standard 18-inch wheels, the standard rear-wheel drive model now has a WLTP range of 344 miles (previously 305), while the Long Range model, with its larger battery and dual motors, claims 421 miles (previously 394). Opting for the larger 19-inch wheels slightly reduces the range to 318 miles and 390 miles, respectively. These numbers are now comparable to the Polestar 2, but the Tesla is expected to have better real-world efficiency, making it more cost-effective to operate.
The performance of both versions with the electric powertrain remains the same. The only difference is that the 18-inch tires now have a lower top speed of 125mph. This translates to a 0-62mph time of 6.1 seconds for the 245bhp entry-level car and 4.4 seconds for the 351bhp Long Range model. The Performance model has yet to be officially confirmed but is expected to be available in the future.