Reviewed by Alex Leanse After a significant update last year, the Tesla Model 3 continues to dominate the EV space for 2025. In many ways, Tesla’s most affordable vehicle remains the archetype against which all other electric cars are compared. Given its strong everyday drivability, approachable starting price, and robust charging infrastructure, it’s no surprise the Model 3 is so popular—but Tesla’s appeal isn’t what it once was. Rivals to the Model 3 include the Hyundai Ioniq 6, BMW i4, and Toyota Prius. What’s New Following the comprehensive Highland update that was applied to the Model 3 for 2024, significant hardware changes are unlikely to occur for 2025. However, Tesla is certain to keep rolling out over-the-air software updates aimed at improving the Model 3’s features and capabilities over time. What We Think There’s no denying that the updated Tesla Model 3 Highland is significantly improved over its predecessor. It rides more comfortably, and the cabin is quieter. There are more standard features and improved seating ergonomics. Driving range is about the same as before, but it was already quite good, albeit less than expected. Pricing doesn't change much, either, making the 2025 Model 3 seem like a great value. Other appreciable aspects of the Model 3 continue, such as its user-friendly cabin layout and abundant storage capacity. However, Tesla’s peculiarities continue to complicate the Model 3 experience. There are no stalks behind the steering wheel, with those controls instead relocated to the steering wheel and infotainment touchscreen. That touchscreen contains nearly every setting and adjustment for the car, making simple tasks more complicated than they need to be. Despite continual software updates, the available self-driving software is still in need of much more improvement. Many aspects of the 2025 Model 3 show why it’s such a popular EV. Yet many of the EVs created to rival it now outdo it in certain areas. Range, Charging, and Performance Several powertrain configurations are available for the 2025 Model 3. The base Long Range RWD model has a single rear-mounted motor that produces 257 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. In MotorTrend testing, this Model 3 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Although it’s rated by the EPA at 363 miles of driving range, our real-world range testing of earlier versions of the Model 3 has yielded shorter-than-advertised results. However, the Model 3’s excellent efficiency will make it very cheap to fuel for those who can charge it at home. The available Long Range AWD model has dual motors for electric all-wheel drive. Total output from these motors measures 394 hp and 377 lb-ft. With this power, the 0–60-mph time is reduced to 4.0 seconds. The Model 3 Long Range AWD is EPA-rated for 346 miles of range. At a Tesla Supercharger, recharging the battery from 5 to 80 percent takes slightly more than 30 minutes. Although exclusive access to Superchargers has been a key perk for Tesla drivers, that privilege is lessening as the automaker opens its network to vehicles from other manufacturers. Tesla Model 3 Performance To showcase the sporty potential of electric power, Tesla builds the Model 3 Performance. This dual-motor variant produces 510 hp and launches to 60 mph in a Tesla-claimed 2.9 seconds. Adaptive suspension, larger brakes, and aerodynamic body details further elevate the Performance’s performance. Inside, sport bucket seats are equipped, and within the touchscreen there are a variety of new settings, such as a Track model for driver-selectable motor torque split. Range falls to roughly 300 miles in EPA certification, potentially a worthwhile trade-off for the Model 3 Performance’s power. Safety Ratings In previous model years, the Model 3 has performed impressively in crash safety testing. The 2023 model received a five-star overall score from NHTSA. IIHS gave the 2024 Model 3 Good scores in each of the three crash categories evaluated. The 2025 model has not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS as of this writing. Cargo Space and Interior Room Between its frunk and trunk, the Model 3 provides a lot of cargo space for a sedan. However, its passenger capacity is more average for the segment. Legroom (front/rear)