2024 Tesla Model 3 Review & Buyer's Guide

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Is the Tesla Model 3 the best electric vehicle model to buy? An automotive expert weighs in on the pros and cons he found when it comes to owning Tesla’s newest Model 3.

Back in 2018, the first Tesla Model 3 was admittedly a little rough around the edges states the host of the Car Help Corner YouTube channel. But is this still true today? Let’s find out how that the latest model may require a reset in your thinking when it comes to the Tesla Model 3 and what you may have heard or learned from experience with an earlier model in the past, by following host Shari Prymak―a professional car buyer and auto consultant

Related article: Toyota Mechanic Reveals the Truth About Tesla Model Y

How Does the New Model 3 Differ From the Earlier Models?

According to the host, the new Model 3 is a big departure from the earlier varieties. The changes you will find include:

  • A lot quieter with increased and improved sound deadening features.
  • Improved ride handling with an upgraded suspension system.
  • Both the interior and exterior build quality is improved with better materials and craftsmanship.

“This feels like a much more polished car than it was before,” states the host as he points out that the rebuilding of the Model 3 is the result of multiple small improvements that added up to essentially a new type of an existing model that already had a strong following.

However, despite the host’s glowing praise of the 2024 Tesla model 3 while claiming that he is not a “Tesla EVangelist” he does find some issues he would like to share with consumers shopping for an EV and are curious whether or not the Tesla Model 3 is right for him or her.

What are the Pros of Choosing the Model 3

There are numerous pros to owning a Model 3 over other EV makes and models, but to keep it short and simple here is a summary of the ones that really should count for a new EV shopper:

  1. Range Anxiety Relief: Part of what separates Tesla from other makes of EV is that of the supporting infrastructure Tesla has to provide EV road range anxiety relief―not only by creating a network of chargers for their customers, but the fact that charging times are competitively quicker with Tesla superchargers over other EV charger brands.
  2. Battery Life Improvements: Better built batteries through the latest chemistry and onboard cooling systems together ensure that battery life is as optimal as possible right now with Tesla models compared to other EVs. In short, Tesla is currently well ahead of everyone else.
  3. Resale Value Stability: Despite the fact that Tesla has been all over the price tag board when it comes to their vehicle pricing―which affects the estimated true value of used models―for now, the pricing looks to be more stabilized and new buyers should be less concerned about the Model 3’s resale value once the confusion has finally lifted.
  4. Safety: Test crash results show that Tesla is a safe car to be inside during an accident or road rage incident.

How Much Does the 2024 Model 3 Cost?

Depending on which version you choose, the pricing is as follows:

  • Standard range model with rear drive model with a range of 272 miles and a price tag of $38,990.
  • Long range model with dual motor AWD model with a range of 341 mile and a price tag of $47,740
  • Performance model with AWD at a price tag of $52,990, which the host does not go into any details about.

On top of the base price, trim options and FSD (another $11,000) can significantly bump up your final closing cost.

Which Model Version of the Model 3 Should I Buy?

Choosing the version of the new Model 3 requires careful consideration of the following:

  • What weather conditions and climate will you primarily drive your Model 3 in?
  • Does a 2-second difference regarding acceleration between the standard range and long range versions matter to you?
  • The rear drive and AWD models possess different battery types. What charging recommendations are you counting on―80% or 100% with each charge session?
  • How important is battery lifespan to you versus performance?
  • Will you be charging primarily at home or on the road?

To get more details about these considerations, now is the time to skip ahead to time point 5:34 of the video until you reach time point 8:45 and let the host reveal the devil in the details that should help you decide which Model 3 to buy.

Furthermore, you will also find out which of the two models he covers he believes is the clear model to choose:

2024 Tesla Model 3 Review & Buyer's Guide || Best Electric Car To Buy?

What are the Cons of the Model 3

While the 2024 Model 3 is a significant improvement over the earlier model versions, there are some cons that are worth considering before diving into buying one. Namely:

  1. The temptation to buy-into the FSD feature with its outrageous price tag add-on.
  2. Carry-over features from earlier models that need improving such as the monitor and the around-vehicle views.
  3. A needed sunshade for the enormous glass roof.
  4. Removal of turn signal stalks and the shifter forcing drivers to adapt to push button and screen tap/slide control.
  5. Space for a family of four is cramped.

For additional Tesla-related articles, here are a two select ones to consider:

Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites  and Facebook for daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.

Image Source: Deposit Photos