Tesla Model 3 Long Range review

Zapmap verdict: ”Not just one of the best EVs, but one of the best cars on the road.”

Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Range & charging

Tesla continues to improve its range (model) and its range (driving). The Tesla Model 3 Long Range has the longest driving range of the three Model 3 specifications available, with each featuring a different powertrain.

There are three configurations available:

• • ● Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus – 240 kW – 55 kWh – 278 miles
  • ● Tesla Model 3 Long Range – 325 kW – 75 kWh – 360 miles
  • ● Tesla Model 3 Performance – 375 kW – 75 kWh – 352 miles

Range

The official WLTP driving range for the Tesla Model 3 Long Range is as much as 360 miles on a charge, which is aided by strong brake energy recuperation, capable of ‘one-pedal’ driving.

In real world conditions, I averaged 310 miles on a charge, though that’s with one long, fast, and hilly run that worked out at 250 miles on a charge, dropping the overall average. As such, I’d expect most drivers to achieve between 320 and 350 miles, depending on driving style, weather, and environment.

Braking

Tesla’s brake energy recuperation system is simple in that there are few selectable levels really. I preferred using ‘Hold’ which offers strong braking all the way to a standstill for ‘one-pedal’ driving. There are also ‘Creep’ and ‘Roll’ settings to offer strong regen until slow speeds, and improve coasting respectively, though all are picked in the Driving menu.

I tend to prefer the option to easily change settings using a drive selector or paddles, making it easier to quickly pick alternative regen strengths, rather than diving into the menus on screen. However, most of the time, Tesla’s set-up is very good.

Charging

Charging is possible at up to 11 kW AC and theoretically 250 kW DC, thanks to the CCS inlet fitted. The fastest charging I saw however was 135 kW on a 150 kW ultra-rapid point. The inlet is found on the rear nearside flank and will take around 12 hours for a full charge on a 7 kW charger, or about 30 minutes on an ultra-rapid DC unit.

The Tesla Model 3 Long Range on the road

Power can easily be described as ample in the Model 3 Long Range, with enough poke to push occupants into the back of their seats. It’s such an easy car to drive at any speed, feeling more like driving something on a Playstation sometimes than actually being on the road. On city streets, country roads, or motorways, the digital driving experience is extremely accessible.

What’s the Tesla Model 3 Long Range like to drive?

Suspension is set up to be stiff rather than supple, and the Model 3 lacks the refinement of traditional executive saloons, and other similarly priced EVs. It does control body roll well, and holds what is a heavy car safely on the road. The steering is precise and well weighted, but almost entirely devoid of feedback, adding to the digital feel.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Comfort & Practicality

A key area of improvement for Tesla has been to the overall feeling of quality in the cabin. Trim details have been changed from gloss plastic to matt on the whole, and there’s been a wireless dual-phone charging pad added. Otherwise, the same clean, minimalist cabin remains from before, which still can’t compete with the likes of BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Jaguar, or Lexus – but it’s closer than before. There’s a good level of occupant and boot space, plus the additional storage area under the bonnet.

Design and functionality

The centrepiece landscape touchscreen is both nice to look at and excellent in terms of user experience. I still believe that there needs to be a heads-up display or similar to bring the speedo and other key information back within easy eyeliner of driving, but otherwise Tesla’s system is very accessible and works well.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Tech & Specifications

Tesla’s trim levels are more focused on powertrain changes rather than equipment. The Long Range includes:

1. 15-inch widescreen touchscreen system
2. Tesla app connectivity
3. 18-inch alloys
4. Air conditioning
5. Synthetic leather upholstery
6. Premium audio system
7. Electric front seats
8. Over-the-air updates

Tesla’s Model 3 was already a very good car, let alone a very good EV, and the sheer number being seen on UK roads is no surprise really. These improvements polish a number of areas, improving not just driving range, but build quality, and equipment. It’s still not as premium as other executive saloons, but it’s better than ever before, and the Model 3 has plenty of positives that more than make up for the relative lack of quality. A simply brilliant car.

And how much is the road tax on a Tesla Model 3 Long Range? Use our Car Tax Calculator to find out.

All information above correct at time of publication. Official economy figures, pricing, and tax rates supplied by the manufacturer. Cost to charge based on 0-100% charge at home on a tariff of 16 p/kWh.