2020 Tesla Model 3 review
Tesla Model 3 highlights
Customer rating
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Pros
- Class-leading range and performance
- Tesla's impressive Supercharger network for long-distance driving
Cons
- Large touchscreen can be distracting to use on the move
- Some quality issues reported in relation to build
220 - 330 miles
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
2020 Tesla Model 3 keeps going strong with performance and tech
Tesla has always done things its own way, and that's true even with its big-selling Model 3. Rolling updates are increasingly the norm, with the company enabling new features and upgrading existing cars via wireless updates, much like you'd do with your smartphone. Even so, the Model 3 can be bought in a number of configurations, with buyers able to balance their needs for price, driving range, or performance. There are three primary trim options: the rear-wheel-drive Standard Range Plus and the Long Range and Performance models, which both have dual-motor all-wheel drive. The Standard Range Plus is quoted at 250 miles, and the Long Range ups that to 322 miles of range.
The Performance model has a more focused suspension and bigger brakes, and it drops a bit of range in return for greater performance. But all Model 3s feel brisk, thanks to the immediate power delivery. The Model 3 handles well, too, and you'll find it's fun to drive any of the trim choices. All come well equipped, especially tech-wise, and Tesla's Autopilot system—a clever adaptive cruise control—helps relieve some of the monotony of freeway driving. Spacious and comfortable, the Model 3 is an impressive all-around choice, which continues not only to impress but to get better as Tesla refines it.
All Tesla Model 3 years
What is new for the 2020 Tesla Model 3?
- The Mid Range trim has been discontinued for 2020.
- Model 3 trims have been upgraded with Automated Cruise Control and Sunroof(s) as standard equipment this year.
- Satellite Radio Ready features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Performance trim now comes with Rear Seat Heaters and Leatherette Seats as standard equipment.
- The Standard Range trim now comes with Front Seat Heaters, Power Seat(s), Leatherette Seats, and Memory Seat(s) as standard equipment.
- The Standard Range Plus trim now comes with Skylight(s), Memory Seat(s), and Leatherette Seats as standard equipment.
- The Long Range trim now comes with Leatherette Seats as standard equipment.
2020 Tesla Model 3 trims
Long Range:
Includes a rearview camera, cruise control, Park Assist, a power liftgate, an available Wi-Fi hotspot, a premium sound system, heated seats, brake assist, blind-spot collision warning, and more.
Long Range Plus:
Adds an EPA-estimate range of 402 miles on a full charge.
Performance:
Includes the same standard features as the Long Range, but adds Ludicrous Mode for quicker acceleration, two additional interior styling choices, and a carbon-fiber spoiler.
Tesla Model 3 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2020 Tesla Model 3
1. Comfortable ride for five
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 uses simplicity as the key to a comfortable and functional interior. Leather seating, on all trims, can be comfortable for both short and long trips. Passengers can set just the right temperature in the intuitive climate control system. The sky is the limit with the standard all-glass roof, helping the cabin feel roomy and open. Front and rear heated seats are available to keep everyone warm when the cold weather comes.
2. Double the fun
Why have one motor when you can have two? The 2020 Tesla Model 3 AWD models use electric motors on both axles. This intelligent AWD system reacts in as little as 10 milliseconds to changes in road conditions. Then, the torque gets moved to the wheels with the most traction. This helps you have a confident grip to handle what the road sends your way. This makes the Model 3 a great option if you regularly drive in poor weather.
3. Leading the technology charge
You don't have to be someone who keeps up with the latest tech to enjoy the 2020 Tesla Model 3. A center-mounted 15-inch touchscreen offers intuitive controls for most of the vehicle's features. Twelve ultrasonic sensors and 360-degree cameras feed the driver aids, too. Are you someone who needs the latest tech? Then you'll be pleased to know you can get the latest software updates directly from Tesla over the air so you won't miss out on any of the new features.
4. Driver longer, recharge faster
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 has an impressive EPA-estimated range. The standard 2020 Model 3 with a 54kWh battery has an EPA-estimated 250 miles of range on a full charge.
5. Powered performance
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 Performance lives up to its name. Accelerating to 60 mph from a stop takes just 3.2 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). A 211kW motor is combined with a 147kW motor, putting power to all four wheels, which can improve traction during aggressive maneuvers. Despite the battery's substantial weight, the 2020 Tesla Model 3 Performance can handle cornering with confidence.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2020 Tesla Model 3, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
A front-runner option if you're shopping electric, the 2019-2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV is powered by a 201-hp electric motor, delivering front-wheel drive via a single-speed automatic transmission. When new, a fully charged 2019-2021 Kona Electric has an EPA-estimated range of 258 miles.
Standard features on the 2019-2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL base trim include:
Rearview camera
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ functionality
Keyless entry
The Tesla Model S is a good-looking all-electric sedan that's full of high-tech features. All 2017-2020 models have a large central touchscreen, a wealth of driver aids, and access to Tesla's Supercharger network. 2019 models get an EPA-estimated 285 miles of range when fully charged.
Standard features of the 2019-2020 Tesla Model S include:
Premium audio system
Bluetooth® functionality
Rearview camera
The Jaguar I-Pace made its debut in 2019 as a quick and quiet SUV with impressive range. 2019-2020 models use two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery that delivers an EPA-estimated range of 234 miles on a full charge.
Standard features on the 2019-2020 Jaguar I-Pace S include:
LED headlights
Eight-way semi-powered front seats
Meridian™ sound system
Shop with your budget in mind
Ratings & reliability
Tesla Model 3 features and specs
Standard Range Plus 2WD 4D Sedan
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Front Seat Heaters
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leatherette Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Skylight(s)
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Cloth Seats
Battery details Size
52.4 kWh
Range when new (EPA estimate)
250 miles
Estimated range today
218 - 238 miles
Est. range in 3 years
214 - 234 miles
Is this battery range helpful?Other specifications Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
0.0L
Engine type
Electric
Wheelbase
113.2"
Overall length
184.8"
Width
72.8"
Height
56.8"
Leg room
F 42.7"/R 35.2"
Head room
F 40.3"/R 37.7"
Front tires
P235/45WR18
Rear tires
P235/45WR18
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
2020 Tesla Model 3 FAQ
Yes, an adapter lets you charge a 2020 Tesla Model three from a regular outlet. This type of charging is the slowest and should be on a separate circuit.
Ludicrous mode uses software to get the most acceleration out of the electric motors. You won't find this mode on a Tesla Model 3.
You can use the Eco mode of the Tesla Model 3 to help improve the range. Avoid driving at high speeds, fast acceleration, and heat, since they will increase battery drain.
Thanks to an EPA-estimated 330 miles of range on the 2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range (with a full charge), you should feel comfortable taking your Model 3 on road trips. Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary and battery capacity may decrease with time and use. Tesla has over 20,000 charge stations for use across the continental US. The standard navigation in the 2020 Model 3 can make planning road trip recharges easy.
More about the 2020 Tesla Model 3
Exterior colors:
Deep Blue Metallic
Midnight Silver Metallic
Solid Black
Pearl White Multi-Coat
Red Multi-Coat
Interior colors:
All Black
Black and White
Interior details
The interior of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 is spacious, comfortable, and stylish. Heated seats in the front and rear get wrapped in soft leather, standard on any trim. At 97 cu ft, there's plenty of passenger space for up to five. Gaze into the sky through the glass roof, an exciting feature on all trims.
Child seat details
There are two complete LATCH anchor systems in the rear of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 and a tether anchor point. While there are lower anchors on the outside rear seats, they might be hidden deeper in the seat material than other vehicles. Either rear- or forward-facing car seats will work in any of the three spots. The rear seat measures 52.4 inches wide, so that may be too tight for three child seats.
Year comparisons
2017–2021 (First Generation)
The Tesla Model 3 has not changed since it launched in 2017, using the same battery capacity and features. Tesla only made 79.5kWh models from 2017–2018 due to demand. Software updates get pushed over the air to the car to add new features, improve existing functions, and increase battery range. These updates apply to all Tesla Model 3s, regardless of model year or trim.
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