Summary
- Model 3 Highland offers a refined ride, more hushed interior, better fit/finish
- Base LFP version maintains nimble, athletic driving impressions
- Saw more than 4 mi/kwh in real-world driving, 23-min. charging 15-80%
- Some analysts see Tesla CEO Elon Musk stifle Tesla sales growth
- The car has great efficiency and charging ease, but some interface details may be deal-breakers
Article
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland offers a more refined ride, a hushed interior, and improved fit and finish compared to its predecessor. The base LFP version of the Model 3 maintains its nimble and athletic driving impressions, and it saw more than 4 miles per kilowatt-hour in real-world driving. Charging from 15 to 80% only took 23 minutes, showcasing the efficiency of the Model 3 Highland. Despite the excellence of the Highland, other automakers may be relieved that CEO Elon Musk has slowed down Tesla’s sales growth, according to some analysts.
The Model 3 Highland is a great car, combining the efficiency and charging ease of its predecessor with improved livability. However, there are some exasperating interface details that may be deal-breakers for some potential buyers. The base Model 3 is enjoyable to drive, with a more refined interior and a ride that is quieter and smoother than before. The clever tuning and engineering by Tesla are evident in this model, making it a compelling choice for EV enthusiasts.
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland features the same profile as previous models but presents a different look from the front and rear. The front end has a more decisive crease, giving the whole roofline a sportier appearance. The base Rear-Wheel Drive model of the Model 3 comes with a host of standard features, including heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, and navigation. The LFP battery pack of the base model does not qualify for the $7,500 EV tax credit, but it offers advantages such as active reminders to charge up to 100%.
The ride quality of the Model 3 Highland has been greatly improved compared to its predecessor. The Model 3 handles with nimbleness and balance, making it an enjoyable car to drive on curvy roads. The steering is nicely weighted, and the regenerative braking system works seamlessly. The base Model 3 may not be tuned like a performance car, but it offers a driving experience comparable to base BMW 3-Series models. The updated suspension geometry contributes to the finesse and athleticism of the Model 3.
The interior of the Model 3 Highland features improved materials and fit and finish, but it still falls short of luxury standards. The touchscreen interface remains the focal point of the dashboard, providing access to various features and controls. The base model lacks Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but the native navigation system is excellent. The rear seats have their own touchscreen controls, and the cabin offers plenty of storage space and room for passengers.
The efficiency and charging capabilities of the Model 3 Highland are impressive, with the vehicle delivering more than 4.1 miles per kilowatt-hour in a real-world driving test. The navigation system directs drivers to Supercharger stations efficiently, and charging the vehicle from 15 to 80% only takes 23 minutes. Despite some interface issues, the Model 3 Highland is a quiet, well-mannered EV that offers a pleasant driving experience. Tesla has succeeded in creating a car that is enjoyable to drive, even if the company’s ultimate goal is to transition to autonomous driving technology.
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