2020 Tesla Model 3 Review

Name: 2020 Tesla Model 3 Review
Brand: Tesla
Price: 25995 USD

(49)

8.4/10 Expert Rating

2019 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Sedan Exterior

2019 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Sedan F3-4 Normal

2019 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Sedan Front Straight

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Tesla Model 3 model years

2017

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2020 Tesla Model 3 Review

byTravis Langness^{Reviews Editor
Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.}

Pros

Tesla prestige at a lower price
Class-leading range, performance and handling
More technologically advanced than rivals
Supercharger network access for long-distance driving

Cons

Touchscreen interface design can lead to driver distraction
No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support

What's new

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

Overview

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.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

2020 Tesla Model 3 EV Insights

Trim:

Model 3 Standard Range Plus

Estimated Range Based on Age

edmunds TESTED

219 miles^{The range for a used 2020 Tesla Model 3 is estimated to be 219 miles because electric cars typically experience 1-2% of range loss per year, with slightly faster degradation over the first 50,000 miles as the car settles into its long term state, according to Recurrent's study of 15,000 EVs.}

EV batteries lose 1-2% of range per year. Est. range for this car is 219 miles.^{Electric cars typically experience 1-2% of range loss per year with slightly faster degradation over the first 50,000 miles as the car settles into its long term state, according to Recurrent's study of 15,000 EVs.}

Round-trip

One-way

Estimated range map^{This map is a visual representation of the possible one-way and round-trips by this vehicle (on a full charge) from the geometric center of Ashburn, Virginia. The depicted ranges are based on the estimated new vehicle range value provided by the EPA, rounded down to miles for one-way and miles for round-trip. Actual range will vary depending on the condition of this vehicle’s battery pack, how you drive, driving conditions and other factors.Map display generated using: © openrouteservice.org by HeiGIT | Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors | Leaflet} from

Charging at Home

8.5 hours

Total Charging Time (240V outlet)

Tesla Supercharger^{Proprietary Tesla charging standard. Supports Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast charging.}

Plug Type

EV Battery Warranty

8 yrs or 100,000 miles^{The federal government requires that EV batteries be warrantied for a minimum of eight years or 100,000 miles. The EV battery warranty includes replacement if your battery capacity drops below a certain percentage of the original capacity.}

Estimated battery warranty remaining is 5 years or 58,000 miles for this car.^{Warranty remaining value is based on the vehicle year, and on driving 14,000 miles per year. Confirm exact warranty coverage for each vehicle with the dealers and the manufacturer before purchasing.}

EV Tax Credits & Rebates

$125

Available Rebates. Restrictions apply.

Restrictions:
Dominion Energy offers EV owners a rebate of up to $125 towards the cost of a Level 2 charging station.
To qualify for this rebate, the customer and/or charging station must meet the following requirements:
- Receive electricity from Dominion Energy.
- Have an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle.
- Networked/Smart charging capabilities to program the station to off-peak periods and respond to managed charging events
- You also earn a $40 e-gift card on the anniversary of your enrollment every year you remain enrolled.
To learn more, visit https://www.chargingrewards.com/faqs/dominion-ev/

See All EV incentives

Cost to Drive

$42/mo

Model 3

$170/mo

Car Avg.

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

Am I Ready for an EV?

EV ownership works best if you can charge (240V) at home or at work ^{This typically means a 240V home installation, but you could also have a similar setup at your office or other places your car is already parked for several hours each day. Don't expect a regular household outlet (120V) to suffice unless you've got a plug-in hybrid, in which case overnight charging at home is feasible.}

If you can’t charge at home, charging at a charging station could take at least 10x longer than at a gas station ^{With public charging infrastructure still in its infancy, the user experience can be maddeningly inconsistent. Tesla owners tend to rave about the reliability and speed of the company's proprietary Supercharger stations, but rival DC fast options have thus far been plagued by technical issues and overcrowding. It's an evolving landscape and our best advice is to do your research on the available options for the EV you want to buy.}

Adding a 240V home charging system could cost up to $1,000 or more ^{If your existing electrical service can handle the additional demands of EV charging, you may be able to add Level 2 charging at home for less than a grand, including installation. But your costs will multiply if you need to upgrade your electrical panel or add a dedicated circuit.}

Learn more about EV charging

See All EV Insights

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.

Edmunds Expert Rating

great

8.4/10

Edmunds Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

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.

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

9.0/10

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.

Comfort

8.5/10

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.

Interior

8.0/10

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.

Technology

7.0/10

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.

Storage

8.0/10

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.

Range and Efficiency

8.0/10

How are the range and efficiency? 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.

Value

8.5/10

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

9.5/10

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.

2020 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.

Be aware that Tesla updates the Model 3 on an ongoing basis rather than by model year, so what follows might not necessarily reflect the most current offering.

Standard features at the Standard Range Plus level include 250 miles of range, rear-wheel drive, a glass roof, power-adjustable front seats, a 15-inch touchscreen, a navigation system and Bluetooth. Autopilot, a safety suite with exterior cameras and adaptive cruise control with an assisted steering system, is also included.

A larger battery pack (good for 322 miles) and all-wheel drive come with the midlevel Long Range trim. You get a few more features with the Long Range, including a premium sound system. The biggest punch comes from the Performance trim. It uses the same battery and dual-motor layout as the Long Range, but it's tuned to deliver maximum thrills. Other upgraded equipment includes performance brakes and a lowered suspension.

For all Model 3s, Tesla offers a Full Self-Driving Capability option, which includes extra features such as automatic lane changes on the highway and summoning your car in a parking lot.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Tesla Model 3.

5 (70%)

4 (6%)

3 (6%)

2 (0%)

1 (18%)

4.1

49 reviews

Write a vehicle review See all 49 reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Car of the future?

Rob, 03/19/2020

2020 Tesla Model 3 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 …

Insanely Amazing

AlphaTango11, 03/14/2020

2020 Tesla Model 3 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 …

Wow... This is everything a car should be

Dr Dave, 05/19/2020

2020 Tesla Model 3 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. …

Amazing Daily Commuter Car

Jesse Kershner, 08/01/2020

2020 Tesla Model 3 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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2020 Tesla Model 3 videos

2020 Tesla Model 3: Edmunds Top Rated EV | Edmunds Top Rated Awards 2021

[MUSIC PLAYING] JONATHAN ELFALAN: No other manufacturer to date has yet to offer an EV for the money that's as appealing to drive, look at, and use on a day-to-day basis as a Tesla Model 3. That's why it's our pick this year and the defending champion for Edmunds top-rated electric vehicle. ALISTAIR WEAVER: The award goes to the car itself and not the Twitter antics of CEO Elon Musk. We remain skeptical of lots of Tesla's promises from future vehicles to the so-called full self-driving. Frankly, believe it when you see it. But to focus on such things is to devalue the merits of the vehicle, itself, which are ever improving. Tesla's practice of updating its software over the air means dynamic refinements and new features arrive without you having to visit a service center. It's not always glitch-free, and rivals are introducing similar systems. But for now, at least, Tesla leads the way. Our choice remains the entry level Standard Range Plus. And for the upcoming 2021 model year, Tesla is introducing such niceties as black trim and wireless phone charging. JONATHAN ELFALAN: While it's unlikely you'll match Tesla's claim to range figures-- we never have-- there's enough real-world range for most shoppers. Plus, buying-in gets you access to the supercharger network, which remains the most robust, fast-charging set up across the nation. The Model 3 is a powerful, attractive, and highly-functional EV that serves as an excellent commuter for shoppers who are ready to adopt all-electric mobility. Edmunds has owned two Model 3s. Our editor-in-chief bought one for his family car. That's the strongest recommendation we can make.

2020 Tesla Model 3: Edmunds Top Rated EV | Edmunds Top Rated Awards 2021

The 2020 Tesla Model 3 wins the title of Top Rated EV in the Edmunds Top Rated Awards for 2021. Tesla has been leading the charge when it comes to electric vehicles for years. And the Model 3 is no exception. The Model 3's improved range and interior updates only improve the formula…

2020 Tesla Model 3: Edmunds Top Rated EV | Edmunds Top Rated...

2020 Tesla Model 3 vs. 2020 Model Y vs. 2021 Ford Mustang Ma...

Tesla Model 3: What Do You Really Get for the $35K Price?

2020 Model 3 Highlights

Trim:

Standard Range Plus

Base MSRP	$37,990
EV Tax Credits & Rebates	$125 Based on income
Engine Type	Electric
EPA Electric Range	250 miles
Cost to Drive	$42/month
Total Charging Time (240V)	8.5 hours
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	15.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
EV Battery Warranty	8 years / 100,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Model 3 models:

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.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover5 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover6.6%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2020 Tesla Model 3 Review

2020 Tesla Model 3 Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

2020 Tesla Model 3 EV Insights

Estimated Range Based on Age

Charging at Home

EV Battery Warranty

EV Tax Credits & Rebates

Cost to Drive

Am I Ready for an EV?

What's it like to live with the Model 3?

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Range and Efficiency

Value

Wildcard

Which Model 3 does Edmunds recommend?

2020 Tesla Model 3 models

Most helpful consumer reviews

Car of the future?

Insanely Amazing

Wow... This is everything a car should be

Amazing Daily Commuter Car

2020 Tesla Model 3 videos

2020 Tesla Model 3: Edmunds Top Rated EV | Edmunds Top Rated Awards 2021

2020 Model 3 Highlights

Safety

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