Carwow bitesize review: why the cheapest Tesla Model 3 is also the best

This is the new Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive, and it’s the cheapest Tesla you can currently buy – starting from £37,990. The Model 3 range is quite confusing, with lots of different versions which all look pretty similar, but I reckon this one is the best.

You can check out our full Tesla Model 3 review for an in-depth look at the entire range, but in this bitesize review I’m going to go over the key facts in less than 500 words, starting now.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

What’s different about this car?

The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive looks almost identical to every other Model 3, with the only visual difference being the wheels – you can only get 18-inch rims with plastic covers.

There are some changes inside, with half-cloth seats and simpler ambient lighting offering fewer colour options. There’s also a manually-adjustable steering column, and the seat controls have been moved to the screen instead of having physical buttons.

You still get a large central touchscreen which is super responsive, and the menus are really easy to navigate. This makes it easier to forgive the button-free dash.

It’s just as practical as every other Model 3 with loads of rear legroom, although the seat is quite low which can push your knees up a bit. There are two massive cubbies in the centre console for your bits and bobs, and the 594-litre boot is 190 litres bigger than a Polestar 2’s.

How does it drive?

The Rear-Wheel Drive jostles you around a bit over broken surfaces thanks to the fact it has a slightly more basic suspension setup than other Model 3s, but it smooths out on the motorway and it’s quiet at speed. That said, a BMW i4 does feel slightly more refined.

It’s impressive on a country road, because it’s surprisingly good fun to drive through the bends. The steering is quick and direct, and there’s very little bodyroll when you chuck it into a corner.

How fast is it?

Powering this car is a 283hp motor, and Tesla says it’s reduced the acceleration and the top speed to drop the insurance group. You could’ve fooled me to be honest, because it still does 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds. That’s nearly 2.0 seconds faster than a Kia EV4 Fastback.

How far will it go on a charge?

The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is very efficient. It has a 70kWh battery with a claimed range of 332 miles, and during my test drive on a variety of different roads I averaged 4.2 miles per kWh. That equals a real-world range of 294 miles, which is 89% of the claimed figure.

Why I think the cheapest Tesla Model 3 is the best

After reviewing the Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive, I reckon it’s the pick of the range because of the incredible value for money.

The next model up, called the Premium, is an extra £7,000, or £175 per month if you lease your car. That gets you an extra 134 miles of range, but the Rear-Wheel Drive will go far enough for most people.

I also don’t think it’s worth an extra £7,000 in terms of additional kit either. You get an electric steering column, heated rear seats, a rear touchscreen and some different interior trim options, but I can do without that in all honesty.

The cheapest Tesla Model 3 is an excellent all-rounder, and that’s why I think it’s the one to go for.

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