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1955 Ford Crown Victoria2023 Tesla Model 3: Still a Cool Little EV
Little changes in 2023 for the Tesla model 3, but that does not mean you should count it out. Read on to find our thoughts about the 2023 Tesla Model 3.
What’s New for the 2023 Tesla Model 3?
A 2023 Tesla Model 3 looks remarkably similar to the first version in 2017. That’s because aside from a mild cosmetic refresh in 2020, the design and mechanicals have remained largely the same. Beefier battery packs have been implemented over the years and updated technology has been added via Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
Tesla marches to the beat of their own drum and as such, they perform rolling updates versus the model year changes that most other automakers stick with. It seems to be working as the popular Model 3 was the number two best-selling EV last year.
2023 Tesla Model 3 – tesla.com | Shop 2023 Tesla Model 3 on Carsforsale.com
The Breakdown
Impressive range
Supercar quick
Minimalist cabin
Minimalist cabin
Getting old
Endless promise of self-driving
Still cool but the competition is heating up
2023 Model 3 Specs
- 271 horsepower from base engine
- 310 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 3 available trims
- 23 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- You can watch Netflix in your car
- Top scores from the IIHS and NHTSA
- Four years of roadside assistance
2023 Tesla Model 3 Powertrain
Tesla doesn’t publish power output, but J.D. Power estimates the base 2023 Tesla Model 3 generates 271 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque from its single motor. Powered by a 58-kWh battery pack, that electric motor routes torque to the rear wheels via a 1-speed transmission on the base model. Step up to the Long-Range model and an extra electric motor is added up front. Powered by an 82-kWh battery pack, this AWD setup is good for an estimated 425 hp.
The top-spec Performance model is also a dual-motor AWD configuration, but the power estimate bumps to 455 horses with 487 lb-ft of twist. This Model 3 is a rocket with a 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds per Tesla. All 2023 Model 3s sit on a fully independent suspension, but only the Performance trim has a sport-tuned setup, summer tires, upgraded brakes, and a Track driving mode.
That’s not to say the other trim lines are sloths. They both benefit from a heavy battery pack stretched beneath the floor. This helps press the little sedan to the road and delivers planted handling in the curves. And they’re plenty quick with the base model getting to 60 mph in under six seconds and the Long-Range doing the same in just over four seconds.
2023 Tesla Model 3 Battery Range
Tesla continues to be a leader in the EV driving range space. The appropriately named Model 3 Long Range can go up to 358 miles on a full charge per FuelEconomy.gov. Base models are rated for 272 miles, a 50-mile increase over the 2020 version, and the hot-rod Performance trim offers 315 miles of range.
Charging can be done at home via 120- or 240-volt power and of course Tesla skipped the need for a national EV charging network by creating their owner Supercharger stations that can add up to 147 miles of range in 10 minutes.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
In its quest to create autonomous vehicles, Tesla forgoes a traditional instrument panel and virtually any cabin doodads in favor of an ultra-minimalist spaceship vibe. There is yet a steering wheel, though Tesla has been experimenting with a polarizing yoke on other models. But it all comes together in a pleasing, serene style where even the HVAC vents are hidden and everything is managed via the giant central touchscreen.
If you’re looking for something more traditional but still want competitive EV efficiency, the Kia EV6 stacks up against the Model 3 nicely.
Cargo space is solid on the Model 3 with 15 cubic feet behind the back seats, which fold flat to offer 23 cubes of room. There’s also a small front trunk for added versatility. Tesla covers the seats in a synthetic vegan fabric that comes in all white – sure to make parents crazy – or an upscale black-and-white scheme for an extra $1,000.
Niceties include standard heated seats for all five positions, a heated steering wheel, and an all-glass roof that lends the cabin a remarkably airy feel.
Entertainment & Technology
The 2023 Polestar 2 sports an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen. Not bad, but the Model 3 goes way bigger with a 15-inch setup. Unlike Polestar and most other automakers, Tesla does not offer Android or Apple integration. Instead, owners connect their devices over Bluetooth. Tesla stands apart by enabling streaming services like Netflix and YouTube on that mini-TV.
Standard tech features include wireless charging for two smartphones and phone-as-a-key capability. Top models offer a 13-speaker audio system and subscription-based Premium Connectivity enables systems like live traffic data and “Caraoke”. That latter feature is one of the many unique Tesla gimmicks that converts the infotainment screen into an in-car karaoke machine.
Safety Features
Though the 2023 model has not yet been rated, the 2022 Model 3 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-Star overall rating from the NHTSA – top scores at both agencies. Standard driver aids include forward collision mitigation, a lane-keeping system, and adaptive cruise control or Autopilot in Tesla-speak.
For an extra $6,000, Enhanced Autopilot adds automatic lane changing, automatic parking, and a summon feature. Or you can drop 15 thousand bucks on Full Self-Driving Capability, which means your Model 3 will be ready to accept this long-awaited system – someday.
2023 Tesla Model 3 Trims & Pricing
Rear-Wheel Drive – $41,630
The entry-level Model 3 rides on 18-inch alloys with aerodynamic plastic hubcaps to boost driving range though $1,500 buys a set of 19 inchers. Standard equipment includes heated side mirrors, a hands-free trunk, and keyless entry. The cabin is swathed in black synthetic vegan upholstery and all five seats are heated. Four USB ports are spread around the interior with wireless charging, a 15-inch infotainment touchscreen, and app-based vehicle control all included.
Long Range – $48,630
Along with a second motor and AWD, the Long-Range model adds nearly 100 extra miles of range over the base model. Tesla also makes the point that this model comes with floor mats, which are not included in the entry-level 3. Audiophiles will appreciate the upgraded sound system that works with 13 speakers, a subwoofer, and 2 amplifiers. Like the RWD model, the Long Range can be upgraded to Enhanced Autopilot for $6,000 or (eventual) Full Self-Driving Capability for $15,000.
Performance – $54,630
Aligning with its blistering speed, the Performance Model 3 comes with exclusive 20-inch “Uberturbine” wheels mounted in a set of Pirelli P Zero summer tires. These models also feature high-performance brakes and a carbon fiber rear decklid spoiler. Aluminum pedals dress up the cabin and a Track mode turns on increased powertrain cooling for more aggressive maneuvering.
Warranties
Tesla’s warranty is in-line with BMW by including four years or 50,000 miles of basic coverage along with a matching term on roadside assistance. The battery and drive unit are covered for an 8-year/100,000-mile period. There is no complimentary maintenance but that’s not so bad as EVs don’t require service, like oil changes, the way gas-powered vehicles do.
What we think
2023 Tesla Model 3 – tesla.com | Shop 2023 Tesla Model 3 on Carsforsale.com
Though the 2023 Tesla Model 3 is getting long in the tooth and is due for an overhaul, it’s still a cool little EV. Driving range is excellent, the design has managed to stay modern, and the Autopilot system is renowned for its smooth operation. The $41,000 starting price seems reasonable given the Model 3’s capabilities and can be even more enticing with a helping of EV tax credits. But it’s the Performance model that is the most enticing. Ample range, sporty looks, and quickness that will embarrass most anything on the road in classic sleeper fashion.
