The 2025 Tesla Model 3 rolls into the new year with its signature blend of sleek style, zippy performance, and tech that feels like it’s from the future. After last year’s “Highland” refresh, this electric sedan remains a benchmark in the EV world, even with stiffer competition from the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and BMW i4. So, what’s the vibe with the 2025 Model 3? Let’s break it down.
What’s New for 2025?
No major shake-ups for 2025, but Tesla’s always tweaking things under the hood via over-the-air updates. The Highland update from 2024 already brought a sleeker look, a quieter cabin, and a comfier ride. The base Standard Range model is gone, leaving the Long Range RWD, Long Range AWD, and the spicy Performance trim. Prices start around $44,000 for the Long Range RWD, with the Performance model hitting just under $57,000. Factor in the $7,500 federal tax credit (available until September 30, 2025), and it’s a solid deal for an EV this capable.
Performance: Quick, Quicker, Quickest
The Model 3’s powertrain options are no joke. The Long Range RWD, with its single rear motor, pumps out 257 hp and hits 60 mph in 5.6 seconds—plenty peppy for daily driving. Step up to the Long Range AWD, and you get dual motors cranking out 394 hp, dropping the 0-60 time to a brisk 4.0 seconds. But the real star is the Performance model, boasting 510 hp and a blistering 2.9-second sprint to 60 mph. That’s Porsche territory, folks, and it’ll pin you to the seat like nobody’s business.
Handling? It’s sharp, thanks to a low center of gravity and precise steering with three settings to tweak the feel. The Performance trim’s adaptive dampers and sport-tuned suspension make it a corner-carving beast, though it’s not quite a BMW M3 when it comes to pure driver engagement. Still, for an EV sedan, it’s a blast to toss around.
Range and Charging: Road Trip Ready
Range 2025 Tesla Model 3 is a strong suit. The Long Range RWD leads with an EPA-estimated 363 miles, while the AWD version gets 346 miles. The Performance model, despite its power, still delivers a respectable 298 miles. Real-world numbers might dip a bit, but these are solid for cross-country jaunts. Tesla’s Supercharger network remains a game-changer—plug in, grab a coffee, and you’re back to 80% charge in about 30 minutes. Just note, some users report inconsistent charging speeds, so plan accordingly.
Interior: Minimalist, but Make It Premium
Inside, the Model 3’s minimalist vibe is still divisive. The 15-inch touchscreen runs the show, controlling everything from wipers to gear selection. It’s snappy and packed with features, but good luck adjusting settings without taking your eyes off the road. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto stings, and the stalkless steering setup (turn signals on the wheel, gear on the screen) takes some getting used to. On the plus side, the cabin’s quieter than before, with richer materials and comfy, heated/ventilated seats. The Performance model’s sportier bucket seats are a highlight—supportive and stylish.
Safety and Tech: Future-Proof, Mostly
Safety 2025 Tesla Model 3 is a strong suit, with a five-star Euro NCAP rating and standard features like blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and Sentry Mode (think security cameras for your parked car). Tesla’s Autopilot is standard, but the Full Self-Driving option still isn’t fully autonomous—don’t trust it to drive itself. Cargo space is decent, with 4.3% more room than the old model, and the frunk adds extra storage.
The Verdict
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 isn’t perfect—its controls can be distracting, and the interior’s not quite luxury-grade. But with its range, performance, and Supercharger access, it’s still the EV