2024 Tesla Model 3 Refresh: The Perfect Starter EV!

One-liner

The 2024 Tesla Model 3, unofficially referred to as the Highland, stands out with its aesthetic refreshes, enhanced aerodynamics, improved interior quality, and heightened electronics, making it a commendable flagship in Tesla's lineup.

Key insights

Aesthetics and Exterior Design

  • The new sleek headlights and the Ultra Red paint are key identifiers.
  • The car's nose has been redesigned for a more aerodynamic profile, contributing to better range efficiency.
  • Rear taillights are distinctly angular, and the Tesla text replaces the traditional logo on the back.

Performance and Range

  • Despite not being a Plaid variant, it impressively matches the range of higher-end models with a full charge yielding approximately 330 miles.
  • The new Model 3 boasts an improved drag coefficient of 0.219, aiding in its efficiency.

Interior Upgrades

  • Interior features enhanced materials and build quality, aiming towards a more luxurious feel similar to a mini Model S.
  • The steering wheel sees a significant redesign, removing traditional stalks for turn signals and gear selection, adopting a more digital control approach.
  • Implementation of LED lighting around the cabin and the addition of a touchscreen for backseat passengers enhance comfort and control.

Innovations and Driving Experience

  • Acoustic improvements make for a quieter cabin, while the software and screen responsiveness have been significantly enhanced.
  • Features like High Fidelity Park Assist and a much-improved speaker system mark substantive tech upgrades.
  • The driving experience is softer and more comfortable, with a noticeably tighter steering radius and enhanced one-pedal driving calibration.

General Observations

  • The vehicle maintains Tesla's strong points, like the efficient charging network and ample storage spaces.
  • Camera quality for driving and parking assistance appears notably improved.
  • It positions itself as a highly recommendable first EV option due to its comprehensive upgrades and refinements.

Key quotes

  • "This is the car that people are going to know and see the most often as a Tesla, it's the Model 3 and the Model Y."
  • "This really feels like a mini Model S."
  • "This is a very quick EV."
  • "It's complete, it's great, it's a flagship, it's refined, it's well-built. I'm very impressed by this new Model 3."

Make it stick

  • Sleek and Stealthy: Remember the new Model 3 with the catchphrase "Sleek and Stealthy," referring to its sleek headlights and new colors like Ultra Red and Stealth Gray.
  • Digital Drive: No more stalks – driving and blinker controls are now digital on the steering wheel.
  • Quiet Comfort: A quieter cabin and softer suspension define the refreshed Model 3's luxury leaning.
  • Tech Touched: Enhanced touchscreens front and back, alongside a significantly improved parking assist system, mark the leap into a future-ready Tesla.
This summary contains AI-generated information and may have important inaccuracies or omissions.