2022 Tesla Model 3 review
Tesla Model 3 highlights
Customer rating
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Pros
- Impressive technology, leading battery range
- Cabin is airy, spacious, and comfortable
Cons
- Its success means Model 3s are everywhere
- Rivals are catching up with alternatives
272 - 358 miles
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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The 2022 Tesla Model 3 remains a solid EV favorite
For a time, the Tesla Model 3 was the sole plug-in electric sedan at its size and price point. But competitors have gained ground and now offer alternatives. The 2022 Model 3 remains among the top choices, though. Tesla has only ever made electric cars, and it's always done things differently from established carmakers. That means even now, after five years on the market, the Model 3 can successfully take on the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, and a number of newer battery-powered rivals.
A key advantage is Tesla's established Supercharger network. Tesla is not just building the cars, but the means to charge them quickly. Even the Standard Range Plus model offers an EPA-predicted range around 250 miles, and the all-wheel-drive Long Range and Performance models will take you more than 300 miles. All are brisk, capable, and entertaining to drive. The interior is spacious and comfortable, while the large 15-inch touchscreen is relatively easy to operate. It scores on convenience, too. Tesla's Autopilot active cruise control takes the monotony out of highway driving, while over-the-air software updates let Tesla continually improve the Model 3's software, much like you would with your smartphone. It's more than just a great electric vehicle: The Tesla Model 3 is also a great alternative to premium sport sedans like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and more.
All Tesla Model 3 years
What is new for the 2022 Tesla Model 3?
- The Model 3 is available in a new trim called the Base.
- The Standard Range Plus trim has been discontinued for 2022.
- Model 3 trims have been upgraded with Cruise Control, Power Hatch/Deck Lid, and Rear Spoiler as standard equipment this year.
2022 Tesla Model 3 trims
Base:
Includes 18-inch wheels, 15-inch touchscreen with navigation, panoramic glass roof, heated front and rear seats, and more.
Long Range:
Adds a 13-speaker audio system, 75kWh battery pack, dual motor all-wheel drive, and more.
Performance:
Unlocks high-performance brakes, aluminum pedals, 20-inch wheels, sport suspension, carbon-fiber rear spoiler, and more.
Tesla Model 3 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2022 Tesla Model 3
1. Modern interior design
One of the most appealing aspects of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 is its interior. Featuring a futuristic design, the cabin of the Model 3 is almost as exciting as its performance. Among the most distinctive features is the roof made entirely out of glass, along with a 15-inch touchscreen at the center console, which is basically the command center of the vehicle—replacing practically all other instruments, buttons, gauges, and displays. This frees up extra room in the cabin for passenger comfort.
2. Impressive range
How many miles you can drive before you need to charge is obviously one of the deciding factors when you're shopping for an all-electric car. The 2022 Tesla Model 3 easily ranks near the top here, making it perfect if you have a long commute. The base model has an EPA-estimated range of 272 miles on a full charge, and an EPA-estimated 138 MPGe combined.
3. Advanced driver aids
Although the Model 3 is Tesla's entry-level model, it shares many high-tech features with others in the Tesla lineup. For starters, it comes standard with forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and forward-collision warning. Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane change alert are also standard, as are parallel park assist and parking sensors for the front, side, and rear of the vehicle.
4. Great performance
If performance is your priority, the 2022 Tesla Model 3 has you covered. It's fast, it accelerates quickly, and it handles extremely well. The base rear-wheel-drive model, which is powered by one motor, goes from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds; the Long Range's zero-to-60 mph time is 4.2 seconds. The top-tier Performance model can do it in only 3.5 seconds (all according to the manufacturer, when new).
5. Lots of entertainment and connectivity features
The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has plenty to offer in the infotainment department. Thanks to a series of standard and optional features, the Model 3 provides a high level of connectivity and entertainment for all passengers. For instance, it comes standard with Bluetooth® connectivity and four USB-C ports, as well as wireless phone charging. Navigation is also standard, as is a feature allowing you to stream content from apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu through the infotainment screen.
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Ratings & reliability
Tesla Model 3 features and specs
Base 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
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leatherette Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Automated Parking
- Skylight(s)
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
2022 Tesla Model 3 FAQ
Yes, the Tesla Model 3 comes standard with daytime running lights. Depending on regional requirements, the lights automatically turn on and remain on in specific situations while driving or when parked on certain types of roads. When the daytime running lights are on, the rear taillights are turned off.
Like with gasoline-powered cars, if your Tesla runs out of charge while driving, it will stop. If you need to get it towed, make sure you use a flatbed tow truck—Tesla says the vehicle can be seriously damaged if it's towed by a typical tow truck that only lifts the front end.
Yes. All Tesla models come with a Combined Charging System (CCS) adapter, which allows you to charge at any EV station with that system. You can use your infotainment touchscreen to locate a charging station near you. Then, just insert your charging adapter into the charging connector.
More about the 2022 Tesla Model 3
Color options
Exterior colors:
Deep Blue Metallic
Midnight Silver Metallic
Pearl White Multi-Coat
Red Multi-Coat
Solid Black
Interior colors:
All Black
Black and White
Interior details
The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has a spacious and comfortable interior with room for five. The cabin features a minimalist design—with a flat floor that opens up more room for passengers—and comfortable seats. Total trunk capacity is 23 cu-ft, and the overall cargo space increases further if you fold down the 60/40-split rear seats.
You'll love the panoramic glass roof, which brings a wealth of light into the cabin of the Model 3. With trim levels only applying to battery size and performance, you can expect similar features inside each model.
Child seat details
There are two complete sets of LATCH connectors and one tether anchor in the 2022 Tesla Model 3. You can easily install a rear-facing and a forward-facing infant seat or convertible seat, as well as a forward-facing booster seat.
Performance
The base rear-wheel-drive model of the 2022 Tesla Model 3—powered by a single motor and a 54kWh battery—can go from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 140 mph (according to the manufacturer, when new). The top trim with dual motors and an 82kWh battery has a 3.1-second zero-to-60 mph time and a 162-mph maximum speed (when new). The battery range of the base model is an EPA-estimated 272 miles on a full charge.
Year comparison
2017-present Tesla Model 3 (first generation)
The Tesla Model 3 is still in its first generation, which started with the 2017 model year. It's a compact sedan with a maximum all-electric range of 358 miles for the 2022 Long Range model, when fully charged.
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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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