Used 2021 Tesla Model 3 Performance
Used 2021 Tesla Model 3 Performance





+15
Used Model 3 for sale
Tesla Model 3 types
- Performance
- Sedan
- Long Range
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2021 Tesla Model 3 Performance Review

byKurt Niebuhr
Senior Vehicle Test Editor
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
Pros
- Class-leading range, performance and handling
- Comfortable seating and lots of interior room
- Access to Tesla's prolific Supercharger fast-charging stations
Cons
- Touchscreen interface can lead to driver distraction
- No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support
What's new
- Increased range and efficiency
- New interior and exterior trim
- Standard integrated wireless phone charger
- Standard Range Plus trim renamed midway through the model year
- Part of the first Model 3 generation introduced for 2017
Overview
Can a car be "insanely amazing"? Well, that's how an owner described the Model 3 on an Edmunds consumer review. Is there some hyperbole here? Most definitely. But even from our more measured standpoint, the Model 3 is an impressive sedan. And it's getting even better for 2021.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
2021 Tesla Model 3 EV Insights
Trim:
Model 3 Performance
Estimated Range Based on Age
303 milesThe range for a used 2021 Tesla Model 3 is estimated to be 303 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 303 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-tripOne-way
Estimated range mapThis 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
10 hoursProprietary Tesla charging standard. Supports Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast charging.
Total Charging Time (240V outlet)
Tesla Supercharger
Plug Type

EV Battery Warranty
8 yrs or 120,000 milesThe 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 6 years or 92,000 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.
Additional Information:
Cost to Drive
$57/mo
Model 3
vs
$184/mo
Car Avg.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
More range is always a good thing with an electric vehicle, and the Model 3 obliges. The base Standard Range Plus — the previous special-order-only Standard Range is now gone for good — rises from 250 miles to an EPA-estimated 263 miles of range. Similar gains are in store for the Long Range AWD and the Performance. Other 2021 changes include black exterior trim instead of chrome, a standard wireless phone charging pad, a power trunklid, metal steering wheel control dials instead of plastic, and a new window design to help reduce outside noise.
The Model 3 is a great pick for an EV, but it's not the only one for 2021. Specifically, we've found the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia Niro EV, Polestar 2 (Polestar is a new boutique EV brand from Volvo) and Volkswagen ID.4 to also be viable choices. So should you stick with Silicon Valley's finest or go with an alternative? Read our Model 3 Expert Rating below to help you decide.
What's it like to live with?
Edmunds' editorial team 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 2021 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. Check out our 2017 Tesla Model 3 Long Range coverage to learn more.
Edmunds Expert Rating
great
8.1/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe 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.
Tesla didn't just make electric vehicles popular; it made them desirable. In some cases they're even status symbols, and the Model 3 Performance is one of those instances.
The Model 3 Performance doesn't look much different than other Model 3 versions. In fact, to the average person, their interiors are virtually identical and exteriors indistinguishable. The minimalistic design is modern and high-tech but perhaps too stripped-down for the luxury price it commands. But one press of the accelerator will silence even the harshest critics — this car is fast with a capital F.
The Model 3 Performance doesn't look much different than other Model 3 versions. In fact, to the average person, their interiors are virtually identical and exteriors indistinguishable. The minimalistic design is modern and high-tech but perhaps too stripped-down for the luxury price it commands. But one press of the accelerator will silence even the harshest critics — this car is fast with a capital F.
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Performance
8.5/10
How does the Model 3 Performance drive? The Model 3 Performance is a legitimate performance car thanks to incredible acceleration, quick and responsive steering, and nimble handling. In Edmunds' testing, it reached 60 mph in 3.3 seconds (3.1 seconds with the 1-foot rollout), which is hold-my-beer level of entertainment. All you have to do is mat the accelerator and hold on.
The Performance model's 20-inch summer tires are a marked improvement over the standard car's rubber. They aren't the grippiest when compared to the tires on other performance luxury EVs in this class, but they offer more than sufficient stick to handle most of the spirited driving you'll be doing, on the street or on a closed course. And if you only want an effortlessly quick daily cruiser, the Tesla will do that too.
The Performance model's 20-inch summer tires are a marked improvement over the standard car's rubber. They aren't the grippiest when compared to the tires on other performance luxury EVs in this class, but they offer more than sufficient stick to handle most of the spirited driving you'll be doing, on the street or on a closed course. And if you only want an effortlessly quick daily cruiser, the Tesla will do that too.
Comfort
8.0/10
How comfortable is the Model 3 Performance? Now that the luxury EV field has expanded some, the Model 3's level of comfort isn't quite as impressive as it once was. In particular, the front seats lack support and breathability for long hours on the road, and a high floor makes for a slightly awkward seating position for rear passengers.
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 but Tesla's is still the standout. The cabin is quiet and keeps wind, electric propulsion and most road noise at bay. Ride comfort is surprisingly agreeable most of the time, especially considering the size of the 20-inch wheels and stickier summer rubber. It'll still feel a bit busy if the road surface is broken, but that's expected in a performance vehicle.
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 but Tesla's is still the standout. The cabin is quiet and keeps wind, electric propulsion and most road noise at bay. Ride comfort is surprisingly agreeable most of the time, especially considering the size of the 20-inch wheels and stickier summer rubber. It'll still feel a bit busy if the road surface is broken, but that's expected in a performance vehicle.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The Model 3's controversial interior design still looks modern and cutting-edge. The driving position is highly adjustable and mostly great with the exception of a very noticeable lack of lateral support. The cabin is surprisingly roomy thanks to its minimalistic approach and all-glass roof, which is becoming more commonplace in luxury EVs. Forward visibility is also fantastic thanks to the low hoodline (due to the lack of an engine).
The large 15-inch touchscreen is the centrally mounted 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 cruise control speed — that should be doable without looking.
The large 15-inch touchscreen is the centrally mounted 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 cruise control speed — that should be doable without looking.
Technology
7.0/10
How’s the tech? The Model 3's 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. One of Tesla's best innovations is that periodic software upgrades are beamed directly to your car over the air.
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. One of Tesla's best innovations is that periodic software upgrades are beamed directly to your car over the air.
Storage
8.5/10
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 (15 cubic feet) isn't that impressive compared to the space in other mainstream electric vehicles, but we were surprised by what it could fit — 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 smaller cups and bottles can wobble around. 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.
Inside, cabin storage is pretty decent. However, the front cupholders lack anti-tip tabs, so smaller cups and bottles can wobble around. 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 economical is the Model 3 Performance? [Editor's note: The following relates to the 2018 Model 3 Performance, which is what we tested. EPA range and efficiency estimates have changed slightly since then, but our general takeaways still apply.] The Model 3 Performance is rated at 29 kWh per 100 miles traveled, which is excellent especially for the performance it delivers. For context, that's more efficient than the much slower Nissan Leaf Plus and Kia Niro. The range estimate from the EPA is 310 miles for the Performance model with its battery 100% charged, which is also impressive. However, in Edmunds' testing, the Model 3 fell well short of that estimate.
On Edmunds' EV range and efficiency loop, with an average ambient temperature of 61 degrees, the Model 3 traveled 256 miles on a max battery charge. Our test car was also just marginally less efficient than the EPA's estimate, with an average consumption of 30.1 kWh/100 miles (the higher the number, the less efficient the car is). We've experienced this trend of not meeting range figures in other Tesla models.
On Edmunds' EV range and efficiency loop, with an average ambient temperature of 61 degrees, the Model 3 traveled 256 miles on a max battery charge. Our test car was also just marginally less efficient than the EPA's estimate, with an average consumption of 30.1 kWh/100 miles (the higher the number, the less efficient the car is). We've experienced this trend of not meeting range figures in other Tesla models.
Value
8.0/10
Is the Model 3 Performance a good value? The Model 3 Performance is a shockingly good bang-for-the-buck value. But now that other luxury players have entered the EV market, the interior build quality of the Tesla feels cheap by comparison. There aren't many additional personalization options to choose from other than colorways and unlocking the "future" potential of Autopilot features.
The Model 3 has comparable warranty coverage to other luxury electric vehicles, but the big benefit to owning a Tesla is having access to its proprietary nationwide Supercharger network for speedy pay-per-use charging. At its quickest, the newest Tesla V3 Superchargers have the capability to charge from zero to 80% capacity in fewer than 30 minutes.
The onboard charger is 11.5 kW, and it comes with the usual assortment of charge cord options, including a standard 120-volt household adapter, a 240-volt adapter and a NEMA 14-50, which you commonly find in RV parks. Beginning from an empty battery, a full charge should take anywhere from seven to 11 hours on a home wall charger.
The Model 3 has comparable warranty coverage to other luxury electric vehicles, but the big benefit to owning a Tesla is having access to its proprietary nationwide Supercharger network for speedy pay-per-use charging. At its quickest, the newest Tesla V3 Superchargers have the capability to charge from zero to 80% capacity in fewer than 30 minutes.
The onboard charger is 11.5 kW, and it comes with the usual assortment of charge cord options, including a standard 120-volt household adapter, a 240-volt adapter and a NEMA 14-50, which you commonly find in RV parks. Beginning from an empty battery, a full charge should take anywhere from seven to 11 hours on a home wall charger.
Wildcard
9.0/10
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 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.
The Model 3 Performance out-Germans the Germans in the sense that the only identifying factors of the Performance model is a dual-motor badge and larger wheels. Some may feel shorted by this, while others will find it charming, especially if you're someone who likes to fly under the radar.
The Model 3 Performance out-Germans the Germans in the sense that the only identifying factors of the Performance model is a dual-motor badge and larger wheels. Some may feel shorted by this, while others will find it charming, especially if you're someone who likes to fly under the radar.
Which Model 3 does Edmunds recommend?
Because range really is peace of mind in an EV, we'd recommend the Long Range AWD. Not only do you get an EPA-estimated range of 353 miles but you get a faster onboard charger for quicker fill-ups. The all-wheel-drive system affords improved traction in inclement weather but also benefits dry-weather handling and performance. We're also fans of the upgraded 14-speaker audio system that's standard on this trim level.
2021 Tesla Model 3 models
The Tesla Model 3 is a fully electric sedan that comes in three trim levels: Standard Plus, Long Range AWD and Performance. Each trim is differentiated primarily by 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. Highlighted features include:
Standard Plus
Offers an estimated 263 miles of range, as well as:
- Rear-wheel drive
- 7.6-kW onboard charger
- 170 kW max Supercharging
- Tesla-estimated 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds
- 18-inch wheels
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Panoramic glass roof
- Keyless entry and start
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats
- Wireless charging for two smartphones
- 15-inch touchscreen with navigation
- Tesla's Autopilot (suite of advanced driver aids, including exterior cameras and traffic-adaptive cruise control)
Long Range AWD
Adds all-wheel drive and ups the estimated range to 353 miles. It also has:
- 11.5-kW onboard charger
- 250 kW max Supercharging
- Estimated 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds
- 15-speaker premium sound system
- Heated rear seats
Performance
Dials up the performance of the Long Range AWD but offers only 315 miles of estimated range:
- Estimated 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds
- 20-inch wheels
- Carbon-fiber rear spoiler
- Aluminum pedals
- Sport suspension
- High-performance brakes
- Track-oriented driving mode
Tesla offers a so-called Full Self-Driving Capability option is available on all trims. It adds nifty semi-automated driving features, including automated parking and the ability to change lanes simply by flicking the turn signal. Tesla also says the Full Self-Driving Capability feature will gain additional automated driving capabilities in the future via over-the-air updates.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 Tesla Model 3 Performance.
5 star(67%)
4 star(8%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(3%)
1 star(12%)
34 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
2021 Model 3 Highlights
Performance
Base MSRP | $58,990 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Electric |
EPA Electric Range | 315 miles |
Cost to Drive | $57/month |
Total Charging Time (240V) | 10.0 hours |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
EV Battery Warranty | 8 years / 120,000 miles |
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
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover6.6%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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