There’s a cheaper Tesla Model 3 model, but is it worth it?
For $4000/£7000 less, the Tesla Model 3 Standard ditches some of the best features from the regular version – but I'm not sure it's worth it
The new Tesla Model 3 is still one of the most compelling electric cars on sale today. This saloon has been refined after years of updates, and the car makes a strong case for going electric at this price point. You get strong range, the best in-car software, and Tesla’s Supercharging network wrapped up in a good-looking package. In fact, I scored it a full five stars in my review. Now, Tesla’s made it cheaper again.
Tesla has replaced the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive with a new “Standard” Model 3, priced at $38630/£37990 or from $449/£249 a month. It’s the most affordable Tesla you can buy. To hit that price, Tesla’s made a series of tweaks and simplifications.
You get a lower top speed of 110 mph and slightly softer acceleration at 0–60 mph in 6.2 seconds. None of that will matter to most buyers day to day, but it changes the Model 3 experience. The biggest downgrade is the switch to a more basic suspension system – something I praised the Model 3 for in my review. Plus, Tesla has axed quite a few other key features from the car:
- 7 speakers instead of 15
- Subwoofer
- AM/FM radio
- Rear ambient lighting
- Leather upholstery
- HEPA filter
- Bioweapon Defense Mode
- Vegan leather seats
- Second-row touchscreen
- Second-row touch-controlled air vents
- Second-row ventilated/heated seats
- Adaptive high beams
- Power-folding side-view mirrors
- Auto-dimming side-view mirrors
You still get up to 332 miles of WLTP range (though from a smaller 69kWh battery). Tesla claims this is one of its most efficient cars yet, helped by the same efficient motors and the standard 18-inch Photon wheels. You still get basic Autopilot, Phone Key, Sentry Mode, Dog Mode, and all of Tesla’s other software features. The in-car software remains unchanged, and still offers access to games, streaming platforms, and music streaming apps.
Interestingly, the Model 3 Standard falls in the lowest insurance group ever assigned to a Tesla at group 32. Plus, the monthly payments that finally make a Tesla feel attainable for a much wider audience. Efficiency is a big part of the story too, with consumption rated at just 20.9 kWh per 100 miles, which is impressive even compared to smaller EVs.
Considering the now “Premium” Long-Range version starts at $42490/£44990, I don’t think this is a great deal. You save $4000/£7000, which is the same price as Autosteer. Tesla is valuing some of the best Model 3 hardware features at the same price as its Autopilot software – and I think these additions are worth the higher price. Considering the lease prices are only $50/£50 less, and the savings aren’t translated for most car owners.
That said, the Model 3 Standard is a better deal than the Model Y Standard – you don’t lose the fantastic new design or the glass roof. If you want the most affordable Tesla you can get, this is the one you should pick. But if you can splurge for the Premium spec, you’ll get a much better car. The Model 3 Standard is available to order now on Tesla’s website. It’s already delivering in the US, and the first UK deliveries are planned for February.
- Related: buy or lease a Tesla Model Y here
Connor Jewiss
