Since it was introduced in 2017, the Tesla Model 3 has offered affordable luxury in the battery-electric segment. As one of the world’s top-selling EVs, it’s known for combining strong power, long range, and advanced tech at an accessible price point.
The 2025 edition aims to continue serving car buyers who want to jump into the EV world and get an excellent, long-lasting vehicle without spending a fortune. Does this recently revamped EV take the next step in all-electric performance? And does it remain economical? I’ll answer both questions in this buyer’s guide that goes over the most important details of the latest Model 3.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 has three powertrain configurations to meet your needs, whether those are everyday performance or something more spirited. Here’s how the trio compares and what they’re good for.
- The Model 3 Long Range RWD has a single motor pushing from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. It’s excellent for daily driving or if you want the classic RWD feel.
- The Model 3 Long Range AWD has dual motors, surging from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. It offers a higher-level driving experience and adds traction for wet or bumpy roads.
- The Model 3 Performance pumps things up to over 500 hp, flying from zero to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 163 mph. It’s ideal for anyone who likes to go fast while hugging the pavement tightly.
The battery is placed beneath the floor, which lowers the center of gravity for excellent stability and directional changes. Three settings let you personalize steering feel, and the independent front and rear suspension give you a responsive but comfortable ride. The Model 3 Performance adds adaptive dampers and larger brakes, increases the wheel size to 20 inches, makes the body more aerodynamic, and adds a Track Mode so you can customize handling and reduce overheating.
Range and Charging
Not surprisingly, the lower the horsepower, the greater the driving range your Tesla has. The Model 3 Long Range will travel an EPA-estimated 363 miles in RWD or 346 miles in AWD, both of which are well above the average for EVs. For the Model 3 Performance, you’re looking at 298 miles of estimated range.
A big perk of owning this vehicle is access to Level 3 Tesla Supercharger stations. On one of these chargers, you can add up to 195 miles of range to your Tesla Model 3 in just 15 minutes, and take the battery from 10 to 80 percent capacity in around 25 minutes. Equipment and adapters are available for many other charging options, including non-Tesla public DC Fast Charging stations and home chargers. The Tesla Level 2 Wall Connector system gives you the fastest home charging, adding up to 44 miles of range per hour.
Interior and Cargo
Your long drives should be comfortable, and the 2025 Tesla Model 3 achieves this with a roomy, luxurious design. Every trim level has 42.7 inches of front legroom, which is among the best in class for midsize sedans, and a competitive 34.5 inches of rear legroom. More notably, there is an impressive 24.1 cu.ft. of cargo space—21 cu.ft. in the trunk and another 3.1 cu.ft. in a frunk. That’s a lot of room for suitcases and other gear.
Other features include a standard glass roof to enjoy the sunlight and ambient lighting to make nighttime excursions more memorable. Tesla uses soft materials that let drivers and passengers sink into the seats. All the glass, including the roof, offers acoustic insulation to keep out road noise and UV-blocking to prevent sunburns. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and you can use the Tesla smartphone app to begin heating or cooling them before you get in. The Model 3 Performance has sport-style bucket seats to emphasize its racing inspiration.
Infotainment Technology
Tesla is known for advanced integrated tech, and the 2025 Model 3 affirms this reputation. The front row has an all-inclusive 15.4-inch touchscreen that includes the digital gauge display, gear selector, entertainment buttons, navigation, and more. There is also an eight-inch rear touchscreen that provides full access to entertainment and climate controls.
Those entertainment options include a variety of apps such as assorted music streaming services, internet radio, YouTube, Netflix, and even built-in gaming. You also receive Bluetooth, dual front wireless charging pads, four USB-C ports, high-end microphones, and up to 17 speakers with dual subwoofers (I will note that Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and AM radio are not included). Finally, you can use the Tesla navigation app to plan routes that include charging stops.
Safety and Self-Driving Tech
You’ll receive the tools you need in the Tesla Model 3 to stay safe on the road. The standard Tesla Autopilot suite includes driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, pedestrian avoidance, and collision warnings. For even more autonomous driving, upgrade to Full Self-Driving software that pilots itself to whatever destination you enter. Despite the name, this system currently requires driver supervision, and a camera monitors the driver to ensure they’re paying attention in case they need to take over. Tesla does regular over-the-air software updates to unlock more features and capabilities throughout the vehicle’s lifespan.
Beyond this, three unique modes are offered for safety and convenience:
- Sentry Mode lets you monitor your vehicle’s surroundings using the Tesla app and sends alerts of potential break-ins or other security risks.
- Dog Mode leaves the climate control on and sets a comfortable temperature for your furry friends while you run errands.
- Camp Mode keeps the entertainment and climate systems active so you can enjoy sitting around a campfire or sleeping in your car.
This generation of the Tesla Model 3 has performed well in crash testing, receiving a perfect five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, so you’re covered in case of accidents.
Affordability and Warranty
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 is priced affordably for a luxury car. The Long Range RWD has a starting MSRP of $42,490 while the Performance lists at $54,990. For comparison, the BMW i4 starts at $57,900 and goes up to $70,700 while offering less performance and range. Compared to a gasoline car, the price difference isn’t as large, but the EPA estimates you’ll save $1,100 a year on fuel costs compared to the average 2025 vehicle.
Tesla also provides one of the best EV warranties available. The powertrain warranty lasts eight years or 120,000 miles, guaranteeing the battery will retain at least 70% of the original capacity. You also receive a four-year/50,000-mile limited comprehensive warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile supplemental restraint system warranty, a 12-year/unlimited mileage rust perforation warranty, and varying coverage on replacement parts and repairs.
Remaining the Leader in EV Sedans
Other EVs have challenged the Tesla Model 3, but it has remained the best-selling model in its segment. The 2025 Model 3 offers powertrain solutions for all types of drivers with remarkable driving dynamics. It also delivers ultra-fast charging, excellent range, sophisticated technology, abundant cargo space, and everything else a driver needs.
Whether you’re a first-timer in the EV space or want to replace an older vehicle with a sophisticated new car at a reasonable price, the Model 3 is worth checking out. With Tesla’s real-time software updates and rock-solid warranty, you can drive confidently knowing the Model 3 will remain a luxurious, relevant performer.
