2020 Tesla Model 3
Other years
2020 Tesla Model 3 Review
- Tesla prestige at a lower price
- Class-leading range, performance and handling
- More technologically advanced than rivals
- Supercharger network access for long-distance driving
- Touchscreen interface design can lead to driver distraction
- No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support
- No major changes for the 2020 Model 3
- 2021 Model 3 will get more range plus other enhancements
- Part of the first Model 3 generation introduced for 2017
Now in its fourth model year, the Tesla Model 3 manages to be efficient, luxurious and fun to drive. For those reasons and more, the Tesla Model 3 is Edmunds' top-rated Luxury Electric Vehicle for 2020.
You can configure a Model 3 to maximize what you want, whether it be a low price, long range or high performance. And in every iteration, the Model 3 gives you access to Tesla's proprietary Supercharger charging network and some of the best semi-automated driving assistance features around. Of course, the brand cachet the Tesla name carries in many parts of the country is probably worth something too.
The Model 3 has its foibles. The lack of hard buttons forces drivers to use the touchscreen to operate almost all vehicle functions. There is no compatibility with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, leaving Bluetooth as the only option to pair your phone. Build quality and long-term reliability also remain question marks, though by and large, consumer reviews on the Model 3 are very positive.
Put it all together and you're looking at the most fully realized affordable electric vehicle on the market. Tesla's habit of upgrading the vehicle's capabilities through over-the-air updates — often adding games and other fun features in the process — is icing on the cake. The Model 3 should warrant consideration not just from electric-vehicle shoppers but anyone looking for a break from the norm.
What's it like to live with the Model 3?
Edmunds' editorial team acquired and lived with a 2017 Tesla Model 3 Long Range for nearly two years, logging 24,000 miles. As an all new-design for Tesla, it had a few teething problems at first. But most of the issues were electronic in nature and were later sorted out via software updates. The 2020 Tesla Model 3 differs from our early long-term Model 3 by way of improved cabin materials and different powertrain options. It's the same generation, though, so many of our observations still apply. To learn more about the Tesla Model 3, check out our 2017 Tesla Model 3 Long Range coverage.
Our verdict | |
The Model 3 delivers an impressive driving experience compared to other non-luxury electric vehicles. Its minimalistic interior design feels chic, modern and upscale. The rear-wheel-drive layout and powerful electric motor also provide natural athleticism and quicker acceleration than anything in its price range. If you're in the market for an electric vehicle, the Model 3 is virtually unbeatable for the price. | |
How does the Model 3 drive? | |
The Model 3 feels sporty and engaging thanks to strong off-the-line performance, intuitive and responsive steering, and coordinated and nimble handling. The straight-line thrust we admired in the early long-range models can still be found in the new entry-level Standard Plus trim. In Edmunds testing, a Standard Plus accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, which is much quicker than potential rivals such as the Chevrolet Bolt or Kia Niro EV. The high-end Dual Motor models are in another league of "quick." The standard 18-inch all-season tires aren't the grippiest, but they offer sufficient stick to live up to most of the spirited driving you'll be doing on the street. True high-performance driving, however, is limited by the heavy-handed stability control. Still, this Tesla delivers an unmatched driving experience in the EV segment. | |
How comfortable is the Model 3? | |
We found the Model 3 to be a pleasant place to sit, and that feeling held up for hours at a time. Our one gripe is the non-perforated leather seats; they don't breathe all that well if you're in a warmer climate. Otherwise, the seats are cushy and provide nice support. The innovative climate controls are adjusted via the touchscreen, and they allow both driver and front passenger to direct the vents on either side of the cabin. Other manufacturers have since replicated this system. The cabin is quiet and keeps wind, electric propulsion and most road noise at bay. Ride comfort is agreeable most of the time, but it can sometimes feel overly busy if the road surface is broken or uneven. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The Model 3's controversial interior design looks modern and cutting-edge. The driving position is highly adjustable and feels great, and the cabin is surprisingly roomy thanks to its minimalistic approach and all-glass roof. Forward visibility is also fantastic thanks to the low hoodline (due to the lack of an engine). The large 15-inch touchscreen is the central control center for everything. While it doesn't block your view, it commands a lot of your attention for too many routine tasks — such as adjusting the mirrors or turning on your windshield wipers — that should be doable without looking. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The Model 3 navigation display is impressive because of its size, and it's one of the few that pulls Google Maps data in real time. That sometimes means spotty information in areas with poor reception, but otherwise the interface is easy to use. The Autopilot traffic-aware cruise and lane management system is one of the better systems out there, and cruise control will even slow for approaching curves (though sometimes a bit too conservatively). The Model 3's lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto puts it at a disadvantage compared to many competitors. Bluetooth is the only way to bring your smartphone into the audio environment, which is not always as stable as being connected via USB. You can, however, stream content (usually only when parked) from places such as Hulu, Netflix, Spotify and YouTube directly to the infotainment system. A wireless charger accessory is available from Tesla as an option. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The Model 3's trunk can hold far more than you'd expect thanks to a broad pass-through and SUV-like fold-flat rear seats. The trunk's stated capacity (12.3 cubic feet) isn't that impressive especially compared to the space in other mainstream electric vehicles, but we were surprised by what it could fit &mdash an extra-large mountain bike, for example. The Model 3 is also one of the few vehicles in the segment with a front trunk, providing a useful 2.7 cubic feet. Inside, cabin storage is pretty decent. However, the front cupholders lack anti-tip tabs, so cups and bottles aren't likely to fit snugly. The car seat anchors are tucked tightly between the seat cushions, so you must take care to avoid scratching the leather as you hook up. Once in, even rear-facing car seats will fit behind an average-size driver. | |
How economical is the Model 3? | |
The Model 3's EPA-estimated efficiency is great, especially for its performance output. The Standard Range Plus' EPA combined rating of 24 kWh used per 100 miles bests the ratings of most other EVs, including the Chevrolet Bolt, BMW i3 and Kia Niro. The Model 3's EPA range is also pretty good at 250 miles for the Standard Range Plus, though we failed to hit this target in our real-world testing. In Edmunds' real-world range test, the Model 3 went 232 miles before needing to be recharged, 18 miles shy of the EPA estimate. Other vehicles in the segment generally beat their range estimates in our testing. Conversely, the Model 3 was slightly more efficient than the EPA's number. We calculated an average consumption of 23 kWh/100 miles (the lower the number, the more efficient the car is). This is puzzling considering the Tesla fell short of its range target. | |
Is the Model 3 a good value? | |
The entry-level Model 3 is surprisingly impressive and has improved in build quality over the early-production long-range model cars. Total cost ultimately depends on your appetite for unlocking the full Autopilot features (and future potential features), but showing some restraint could put you into a genuinely luxurious Model 3 for similar money as a fully loaded Hyundai Kona Electric or Kia Niro EV. The Model 3 comes with the usual assortment of charge cord options, including a standard 120-volt household adapter, a 240-volt SAE public charge equipment adapter and a NEMA 14-50 RV park adapter. It also works with Tesla's proprietary nationwide Supercharger network, which charges a modest fee per use. The Model 3 is pretty comparable to other luxury electric vehicles in warranty coverage, but a big benefit to owning a Tesla are the periodic software upgrades and improvements beamed directly to your car over the air. | |
Wildcard | |
Never did we imagine a world in which we'd prefer driving an electric car to a BMW. But Tesla made that possible with the Model 3, at least in the case of comparing it against the latest BMW 3 Series. From its balanced chassis to the smooth, quiet and instantaneous electric propulsion, the Model 3 will alter your perceptions of what EV driving is all about. It could have been easy for this budget Tesla to feel generic and ordinary, especially in trying to keep the price under $40,000. But instead it's a genuine luxury experience with cutting-edge tech that doesn't just meet the status quo but far exceeds it. We have Tesla to thank for making EVs aspirational. | |
Which Model 3 does Edmunds recommend?
The midlevel Long Range comes with sensible upgrades that make the most of the Model 3's strengths — namely, its extensive range and charging capabilities. This trim has up to 72 more miles of range than the base version, plus a faster onboard charger for juice-ups on road trips. It also adds all-wheel drive, a boon for both driving in wet weather and best experiencing the larger battery's impressive acceleration.
Tesla Model 3 models
The Tesla Model 3 is a fully electric sedan that comes in three primary trim levels: Standard Range Plus, Long Range and Performance. (A more affordable Standard Range is also available as a special order, but Tesla does not list it on its website.) Each trim provides different levels of driving range and acceleration from a battery-electric powertrain.
Compare dealer price quotes
2020 Tesla Model 3 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Standard Range Plus
electric DD
Edmunds Suggested Price$39,190
Long Range
electric DD
Edmunds Suggested Price$48,190
Performance
electric DD
Edmunds Suggested Price$56,190
Sponsored cars related to the Model 3
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Tesla Model 3.
Trending topics in reviews
- interior
- handling & steering
- comfort
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- acceleration
- electrical system
- infotainment system
- appearance
- driving experience
- sound system
- spaciousness
- seats
- technology
- brakes
- towing
- lights
- steering wheel
- maintenance & parts
- value
- safety
- doors
- road noise
- dashboard
- off-roading
- oil
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- wheels & tires
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Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, Car of the future?
Rob,
Long Range 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD)
We have had this car for 3 months and 4000 miles. It has been trouble free, fast and fun. The simplistic interior is fantastic. We have also taken two long trips in the car, not an issue at all. Tech is outstanding. Cons are Tesla has not been building vehicles for 100 years and it shows. It has more road noise than it should, fit and finish lacks versus other manufacturers.Others have a long way to go to match Tesla in electric cars, Tesla has a short way to go to match others in building CARS.UPDATE: After 17k miles and several cross country trips, charging is not an issue. Trouble free so far. UPDATE; 15 months and 30,000 miles it's been super fun and very reliable best car ever
5/5 stars, Insanely Amazing
AlphaTango11,
Performance 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD)
There's honestly nothing like this car. It puts a smile on my face every day I drive it. Seriously, just go test drive one. I used to be skeptical, but I think all of my cars from now on will be Teslas.
The instant torque and regenerative braking make this thing handle like a supercar. The slowest one goes 0-60 as quick as a stock muscle car. It's legitimately insane. If you get the Performance version, it's basically the quickest car under 100k.
Autopilot makes my commute easy and fun. Didn't think I'd like it as much as I do.
Charging at home isn't a problem for me, but if it were, you'd still have the Supercharger network that no other companies have.
Did I mention the acceleration? Because wow.
Initially these cars had some build issues but honestly I think Tesla has really sorted things out now.
If you're looking for a new car and you don't at least test drive one of these, you'll probably regret it. Words can't adequately describe how incredible this car is.
Update: a year later and this car is still amazing.
5/5 stars, Wow... This is everything a car should be
Dr Dave,
Long Range 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD)
During our period of self house arrest (quarantine) we would break out once a week and take a road trip to the local mountains and desert. The Model 3 was a joy on winding roads and steep climbs, to the point where we would come back refreshed and renewed.
The car is an experience that is hard to describe. There is no roar of an engine, just wind and music from a great sound system. Glass overhead to see the sky and trees, and for some parts of the trips, we let the car drive, We noticed that in Self Driving Mode, it was a very cautious driver -- peeking around corners and slowing down for cross streets.
The Model 3 does not disappoint, and is the next evolution of automobile.
5/5 stars, Amazing Daily Commuter Car
Jesse Kershner,
Long Range 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD)
I have owned my 2020 Tesla Model 3 LR AWD for about 6 months. I commute 110 miles round trip, five days per week for work; Most of my commute is on highways or the interstate.
I absolutely love this car. While not perfect, it is far and away the most amazing vehicle I have ever owned.
1) I plug it in at home at night and wake up with the preset charge I need for the next day. No stopping twice weekly for gas. My monthly electric bill is about $70-$75 more with my 110 mile round trip commute 5 days weekly. No oil changes etc, however, reading forums it seems this car eats through tires quickly when driven spiritedly.
2). Amazing clear and well tuned sound system. Especially when downloading music with lossless FLAAC on a USB stick. Very clear with good instrument separation, even at high volume levels. However, this car is not compatible with Apple CarPlay or the android equivalent. For audiophiles, this shouldn’t be an issue. TuneIn is nice for podcasts.
3) This car is so much fun to drive. The instant torque without shifting needs to be experienced. Test drive this car. The steering is nicely tuned. One pedal driving is game changing. This is the way cars should have been all along. Driving this car kind of feels like a video game as far as responsiveness. The 4.4 or less zero to 60 is so much fun. While there are faster cars; this one is efficient as well. Have your cake and eat it to.
4). Autopilot (I have the free version and not the potentially full self driving version) is amazing. While you do need to be alert in order to be safe, my commute is so much more relaxing on the interstate and highways. I arrive home much less exhausted than when I commuted in our Lexus.
5). Voice activated controls work very well for me. The “screen distraction” in the edmunds reviee isn’t much of an issue for me.
6). The seats are by far the most comfortable bucket seats I have experienced for long trips. (Not including the old couch style Oldsmobile and Cadillac etc seats).
The Tesla has a bit more wind noise and you feel rough roads a bit more than our 2013 Lexus ES350, however, I dread days I have to drive the Lexus in order to keep the gas from getting old.
The interior of this car is not as nice as similarly priced luxury cars at this price point. The fit and finish isn’t quite as good as a Mercedez, Lexus, BMW or Audi as far as exterior and interior. However, the driving functionality and infotainment system is amazing. After a few days driving you quickly forget about small mis-alignments only visible if you go over your car with a fine tooth comb.
With the Tesla you are paying for the drivetrain tech/battery and infotainment system tech, free OTA updates etc. These things are far superior to Mercedes and BMW ICE cars at a similar price point IMO.
UPDATE 2/17/21.
I’ve now had the car 11 mos. I still love this car. Autopilot is amazing for my commute. I feel like this car is worth we’ll more than I paid for it. My wife, who is not interested in cars at all, now wants to get a Tesla model S for our next car.
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Safety
Our experts’ favorite Model 3 safety features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time.
- Active Cruise Control
- Maintains a set gap between the Model 3 and the car you're following. It comes to a complete stop and resumes following too.
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Warns if you are drifting out of your lane and will nudge the steering to get you back in line.
Tesla Model 3 vs. the competition
2020 Tesla Model 3
2020 Tesla Model S
Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is the original Tesla, as long as you don't count the Roadster. It's longer and has more interior space than the Model 3. The Model S doesn't have quite as fresh of an appeal as the Model 3, and it's a lot more expensive, but it's undeniably a deluxe step up from the mass-market Model 3.
Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y is Tesla's small crossover SUV. Its underlying architecture and powertrains are similar to those of the Model 3. But it is longer and taller, which opens up more cargo space and room for rear passengers. If you like the Model 3 but need something a little more versatile, the Y is the vehicle to get.
Tesla Model 3 vs. Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt is a competent EV that undercuts the Model 3 on price. It's also fairly fun to drive, though not as much as the Model 3. Tesla also has an advantage with its nationwide fast-charging infrastructure, which Chevrolet lacks. But as a cheaper, less flashy EV alternative, the Bolt is a solid choice. Read Edmunds’ long-term road test of the Chevrolet Bolt.
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FAQ
Is the Tesla Model 3 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 Model 3 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.4 out of 10. You probably care about Tesla Model 3 energy consumption, so it's important to know that the Model 3 gets an EPA-estimated 113 mpg-e to 141 mpg-e, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Model 3 has 15.0 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Tesla Model 3. Learn more
What's new in the 2020 Tesla Model 3?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Tesla Model 3:
- No major changes for the 2020 Model 3
- 2021 Model 3 will get more range plus other enhancements
- Part of the first Model 3 generation introduced for 2017
Is the Tesla Model 3 reliable?
To determine whether the Tesla Model 3 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Model 3. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Model 3's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2020 Tesla Model 3 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Tesla Model 3 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 Model 3 and gave it a 8.4 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 Model 3 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2020 Tesla Model 3?
The least-expensive 2020 Tesla Model 3 is the 2020 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus 4dr Sedan (electric DD). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $37,990.
Other versions include:
- Performance 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD) which starts at $54,990
- Long Range 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD) which starts at $46,990
- Standard Range Plus 4dr Sedan (electric DD) which starts at $37,990
What are the different models of Tesla Model 3?
If you're interested in the Tesla Model 3, the next question is, which Model 3 model is right for you? Model 3 variants include Performance 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD), Long Range 4dr Sedan AWD (electric DD), and Standard Range Plus 4dr Sedan (electric DD). For a full list of Model 3 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more