With Elon Musk’s dealings with Donald Trump and late night rants on X, there’s so much noise around Tesla that it’s easy to forget that it makes cars. But it does – and the Tesla Model 3 is the most affordable.
It is, famously, a fully electric car – Tesla doesn’t do petrols, diesels or even hybrids – and it’s an executive saloon that’s roughly the same size as a BMW 3 Series. That means it sits below the Tesla Model Y SUV in the US brand’s line-up.
There are four versions of the Model 3 to choose from, including two Long Range versions designed to (yep, you guessed it) maximise distances between charges, and a monstrously powerful Performance variant that promises Porsche 911-beating acceleration.
Tesla Model 3 video review
In the ever-expanding world of executive electric cars, the Model 3’s closest rivals are the BMW i4, BYD Seal and Polestar 2. However, you might also find yourself considering the Hyundai Ioniq 6 or VW ID 7.
What’s new?
– February 2026: We drive new entry-level Model 3, named Rear Wheel Drive. It officially has 332 miles of range and a list price of £37,990. Long Range versions renamed to Premium Long Range Rear Wheel Drive and Premium Long Range All Wheel Drive
– January 2026: Tesla Model 3 wins What Car? Executive Car of the Year 2026
– January 2025: New entry-level Standard version launched with a lower price of £37,990
– October 2024: Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive version launched with an official range of up to 466 miles – more than any version before it
– April 2024: With a 0-60mph time of 2.9sec and a 163mph top speed, the new Model 3 Performance is the fastest Model 3 yet
– October 2023: Facelifted Model 3 features new exterior styling, a more comfortable ride, a higher-quality interior and a longer range
