The Tesla Model 3 is a relatively rational offering on the 100% electric car market. But there is a lot of demand… and little supply.
Do you want to be tempted by 100% electric? The Tesla Model 3 is inevitably among your potential choices. But be careful, you have to pay the price. Especially since the supply is not very plentiful, while the demand for the Tesla sedan is very strong.
The Model 3 on the second-hand market
Since its arrival on the European and even French market, the Tesla Model 3 has clearly been a benchmark. And even a bestseller. Additionally, over the years, it has improved, notably thanks to “OTA” updates. In short, the electric sedan has established itself as a benchmark in this area. The only thing is that you have to get used to a very techno interior… Or a very refined one. It depends on the point of view. In any case, it takes getting used to.
The German finish can still overshadow him. But on the new market, this is worth it. And for good reason, a Tesla Model 3 is priced from 39,900 euros in the rear-wheel drive version. Or even 44,900 euros with the big battery. Except that on the second-hand market, there is nothing for less than 30,000 euros. And we still have to be wary of some major recalls that have taken place. The front axle stubs were recalled in January 2022. On Model 3s manufactured between June 2020 and November 2021.
There was also a problem with the brake caliper bolts in July 2021, on certain Model 3s produced between December 2018 and March 2021. Finally, the infotainment system was the subject of a recall in May 2022. This concerned nearly 130,000 Model 3s. But also Model S and Model . The infotainment system could overheat.
The version favored by our experts
In the Tesla Model 3 catalog, one caught our eye. The two-wheel drive version which has a range of 409 kilometers according to the WLTP mixed cycle. It was replaced at the end of 2020 by a version offering a range of 448 kilometers (WLTP). In both cases, the power is sufficient and the approval is there. But if you very often make long journeys and the highway… Be careful. Instead, choose a larger battery. But this will constitute an additional cost.
Instead, you will need at least 47,000 euros. However, Model 3 four-wheel drive brings versatility. With a second engine, installed on the front axle. The level of performance inevitably skyrockets. The large battery obviously improves autonomy regardless of the power level of the higher versions.
Beyond, the Performance version of the Model 3 offers a level of power that leaves you dreaming. And 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds. But again, the prices are much higher. You should always keep in mind that new Tesla sedans are also well placed. But the waiting time is higher.
Is the Model 3 reliable?
Aside from the few problems and other recalls, the Tesla Model 3 is not a bad student. Rear shield, suspension triangles, right rear windows and central screen have some problems. But the Californian firm is aware of the majority. And knows how to fix them. Even if it is not perfect, the Tesla Model 3 demonstrates the company’s progress in terms of construction quality.
Reliability is not total, and certain problems appear exotic in an automobile world that is more than a century old. In any case, according to our colleague Didier Laurent who details this in issue 1111 of our magazine. But we must recognize that Tesla learns quickly. To conclude, our research leads us to focus on the Tesla Model 3 Standard Autonomy Plus from 2021. The 1st prospected prices are sold for 45,000 euros, for 15,000 kilometers.
Not so bad, but not necessarily very interesting compared to a new equivalent. Indeed, the Tesla catalog today offers an entry-level version for only 39,990 euros. Not so bad, even if the bill can easily rise to 45,000 euros after a few options and a painting… But for a new car. SO ? What attracts you the most?
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