Used 2023 Tesla Model 3

The Model 3 has plenty going for it. Range and cost for starters, plus an engaging driving experience, access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, and a lot of technology on offer. It’s also been named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and awarded the maximum five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Let’s stay with the hands-on aspect of driving, because the partial automation systems available in a Tesla Model 3 dilute the experience — which may or may not be a good thing, depending perhaps on how tough the day has been. But despite all the tech, the Model 3 can be truly enjoyable.

The floor-mounted battery contributes to a low center of gravity, with the effect of enhancing stability. Through a set of quick corners, the Model 3 changes direction quickly and calmly. The suspension is taut but still comfortable. Depending on the variant, acceleration goes from amusing to amazing.

One aspect we really like is the ability to fine-tune functions such as steering, brake pedal, and accelerator pedal responses to be sporty or more relaxed to suit the tastes of each driver.

One thing to bear in mind is how easy or otherwise the Model 3 might be to live with. Make sure there are chargers within easy reach. And even though we do all we can to avoid a crash, there aren’t many places to get a Tesla’s bodywork repaired. For example, there’s a couple serving most of the Los Angeles area, each with a long wait time.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and researching the current collection of electric cars, including this Tesla Model 3.

A huge touchscreen enables car makers to keep switches and knobs to a minimum — perhaps too much of a minimum in the case of the Model 3.

The dashboard is more or less a bare space on which the considerably sized 15-inch touchscreen is attached. Even the direction of the air vents is operated through this screen. Such reliance on basically operating a computer while trying to drive a car is a recipe for distraction. Some operations are simply more involved.

Color schemes of black or black/white add to the overall aura of sparseness. At least the all-glass roof makes the cabin feel open and airy. Heated front seats are standard, and they’re comfortable enough for hours in the saddle. Not many adults will want to spend much time sitting in the back, however, since legroom is on the stingy side.

However, cargo space of 19.8 cubic feet in the back is useful, and the rear seats split and fold for extra versatility. There’s also a 3.1-cubic foot space under the hood.

Tesla allows users to stream Netflix and Hulu, a nice way to pass the time when recharging the car. Yet despite this cutting-edge infotainment attribute, there’s no facility to integrate smartphones. Most other manufacturers are fitting Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as standard. It’s not a deal-breaker, but we wish Tesla would reconsider its stance on this.

Range
Other car companies are catching up, but Tesla still leads the way regarding the distance covered by a single battery charge. Factor in the Tesla Supercharger network, and the 2023 Model 3 will handle city duty and road trips alike.

Basic Autopilot
This is a standard feature in the 2023 Model 3 that includes self-steering, braking, and accelerating.

Over-the-air updates
This technology was pioneered by Tesla, bringing ongoing improvements in performance and range, as well as things like information for the navigation system.

Sentry Mode
Even a parked Tesla still has a 360-degree camera system in operation and will send alerts to a smartphone. The optional Live Camera function allows owners to check their car’s surroundings, sound the horn, flash the headlights, and even talk through the car’s speaker.

Enhanced Autopilot
This option provides adaptive cruise control on the highway, with functions like automatic overtaking of vehicles and returning to the original lane.

Full Self-Driving Capability
Another option that takes the Enhanced Autopilot feature, then adds things like ideal lane choice for when the relevant offramp is coming up, self-parking, Smart Summon (the car comes to you), and Traffic Light/Stop Sign control. The driver must still remain alert and aware.

A single electric motor propels the 2023 Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive version to the tune of…actually, we don’t know — Tesla doesn’t quote horsepower or torque figures.

Both the Long Range and Performance variants have dual electric motors and all-wheel drive (AWD).

Single electric motor (Rear-Wheel Drive)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 138/126 MPGe
EPA-estimated range: 272 miles

Dual electric motors (Long Range AWD)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 134/126 MPGe
EPA-estimated range: 333 miles

Dual electric motors (Performance AWD)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 118/107 MPGe
EPA-estimated range: 315 miles

More Model 3 range and efficiency information is available on the EPA’s website.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

Tesla’s basic new-car warranty lasts for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This is a common arrangement among luxury cars. The battery in the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, while the Long Range and Performance versions have battery warranties of 8 years or 120,000 miles.