Efficiency & Charging
10/10
Performance & Driving Dynamics
9/10
Interior & Technology
9/10
Practicality & Usability
9/10
Value & Running Costs
10/10
Overall
9.5/10
Overview
The Tesla Model 3 is a class leader across efficiency, technology, and charging ecosystem, winning multiple awards inbluding the What Car? Executive Car of the Year 2026, and EV Hub's Best EV of 2024. Competing directly with the Neue Klasse BMW i3, Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric, and Polestar 2, the latest Model 3 retains its reputation for accessibility and range. It's best for people who want a low-maintainence, long-range, tech-focused saloon, but look elsewhere if the lack of physical controls or traditional luxury features doesn't suit you.
Design
The Model 3 has a grille-less nose, frameless side windows and a glass roof as standard. Tesla's measurements show its 4,721mm long and 2,087mm wide, which keeps it on the compact side of the executive class. The smooth shape matters for more than looks. Reviews with the car say its real-world tests have found the Model 3 more efficient than any rival tested. The standard LED headlights shape their beams to avoid dazzling other drivers. Wheels start at the 18-inche Photons with the option of 19-inch Dark Nova Wheels. The big glasshouse roof comes at the cost visibility: What Car? found the thick windscreen pillars can obscure the view at junctions, though the BYD Seal and Polestar 2 are apparently no better.
Interior
Inside the cabin, Tesla prioritises radical minimalism, housing almost all controls within a single central 15.4-inch touchscreen. Build quality uses soft-touch textiles, customisable ambient lighting, and acoustic glass around the entire greenhouse for lower cabin noise levels. However, tests have shown motorway noise levels where on par with the BYD Seal, with only the ID.7 quieter. The dashboard excludes all physical buttons, instrument clusters, and conventional air vents, instead directing airflow digitally. Traditional steering column stalks have been re-added in a recent update, though wipers and cruise control remain on steering-wheel buttons. The gear selection is controled via the central touchscreen, with touchpads above the driver's head in case the touchscreen fails. Rear passengers receive an 8.0-inch touchscreen mounted behind the center console for independent climate settings and entertainment. As a note, Tesla does not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and free connectivity lasts 30 days before a subscription is required.
Performance & Powertrains
The Long Range RWD model features an 85 kWh battery, pushing a range of up to 466 miles WLTP, up from 436 miles after an October 2025 update, while achieving 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds. However, real-world range tests tend to be closer to 380 miles, but this was before the recent battery and range increase so this figure will likely be more. The Long Range AWD model adds a second electric motor to the front axle for improved traction, running 0-62 mph in 4.4 seconds with a 410-mile range rating. DC rapid charging speeds are at 250 kW, allowing 10-80% top-ups in approximately 28 minutes or 175 miles added in 15 minutes according to Tesla, via the native Tesla Supercharger network or other CCS ultra-rapid chargers. The Model 3 Premium rides more smoothly than the entry car, but not as comfortably as the ID.7. Its steering is accurate and quick, but both What Car? and Auto Express say a BMW i4, and likely the new i3, is more fun to drive.
Practicality
As a four-door executive saloon, boot storage is split between front and rear luggage areas. The main rear boot offers 594 litres of total capacity, including a deep underfloor storage bin ideal for charging cables, though the narrow saloon boot opening restricts loading bulkier items compared to a traditional hatchback design. Additional practical storage includes an 88-litre frunk, bringing total luggage space up to 682 litres. This is substantually more than the BYD Seal at 485 litres, and Mercedes CLA at just 405 litres. Rear legroom and headroom comfortably accommodate adult passengers, complemented by a flat interior floor, but the knees-up seating position tiring over time. Because the Model 3 is slightly smaller compared to rivals in the executive class, cars like the ID.7 will be roomier. The central cabin features dual wireless smartphone chargers, expansive door pockets, and a large central storage console.
Buying
Pricing for the Model 3 Premium starts at £44,990 for the Long Range RWD model, while upgrading to Dual-Motor AWD increases the cost to £49,990. At this price, it undercuts the Long Range Polestar 2, Volkswagen ID.7, and Neue Klasse BMW i3. Standard equipment across all trims includes synthetic leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, keyless smartphone entry, a glass panorama roof, adaptive cruise control, and basic Autopilot driver assistance features. The battery and drive unit carry an 8-year/120,000-mile warranty, but insurance is steep. However, it did earn 5 Euro NCAP stars in 2025. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the Premium Long Range RWD variant. This model delivers the ultimate sweet spot in the lineup, pairing a class-leading 466-mile range with rapid 250 kW charging speeds, and brisk acceleration without incurring the premium price hike of dual-motor or Performance variants.