The long-standing benchmark for electric vehicles, this is the Tesla Model 3 Performance.
First launched in the UK back in 2019, the Model 3 has come a long way since
and remains one of, if not, the best electric vehicle on the market.
Rivals like the Polestar 2 have threatened to knock it off its perch, so can it still proclaim to be the best?
To find out, we're testing this Performance model in the standard Pearl White colour option.
It comes with a claimed range of 340 miles and is the most expensive variant in the Model 3 line-up
ahead of the Standard and Long Range options.
This Performance variant comes with 20 inch Uberturbine wheels and a carbon fibre spoiler.
The Model 3 has a flowing design, which looks right at home in the wider Tesla line-up.
Bulky wheel arches and the carbon fibre spoiler create a muscular rear end
while at the front, the bonnet drops away suddenly to create a much lower profile.
This Performance variant of the Model 3 comes with a Premium interior,
which includes heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel,
premium audio system and heated power-folding mirrors.
The famous minimalist design is complimented by the large 15inch touchscreen.
Meanwhile, the wood finish on the dash gives it a pristine feel.
All Model 3s come with a glass roof as standard, which creates the feeling of a spacious and bright cabin for all passengers.
Featuring the best acceleration figures in the Model 3 range, this Performance variant will
go from nought to 60 in just 3.1 seconds.
Accompanying that spine-tingling acceleration is an all-wheel-drive system that
gives you complete control as you unleash over 600Nm of torque.
However, it's an incredibly easy car to drive and comes into its own when
just cruising along, providing immaculate comfort levels.
You do hear more wind noise when travelling at motorway speeds,
but otherwise cabin noise is competitive for this class.
Inside, the Model 3 is a tech lover's dream.
The 15inch touchscreen controls nearly all of the car's major functions,
including its wing mirrors, headlights and even opening the glovebox.
There are no conventional dials to display your speed or range, everything is shown on the touchscreen.
As an overall system, there's no doubt it's unique.
And it's one that will continually improve through over the air updates.
We can't deny, it does take some time to get used to.
It's not as simple as using traditional dials or buttons.
However, the depth of the system is seriously impressive.
As well as your usual navigation and audio systems, you can play games
or even watch your favourite car reviews on YouTube.
This is an infotainment system that truly lives up to the name.
When it comes to connectivity, you have two USB C slots in the centre console, a 12V socket
and another two USB C ports in the rear.
Exclusive access to the Tesla Supercharger Network has always been one
of the biggest draws to the brand. Using a Supercharger,
this Model 3 can recoup up to 172 miles in just 15 minutes.
The Model 3 doesn't just excel in performance, but in the space it offers too.
Passengers above six foot will enjoy a great amount of head and legroom in the rear.
With no transmission tunnel, carrying three in the back won't be a problem either.
In total, there's 425 litres of space from both the rear boot and the frunk, which is
narrowly more than rivals like the Polestar 2 can offer.
Storage opportunities throughout the rest of the vehicle are just as impressive,
with good-sized door bins and compartments in the centre console.
Considering its impressive range, comfort levels and compelling experience behind the wheel,
the Model 3 still deserves to be considered among the very best.
Their ground-breaking technology represents a new era for electric driving.
Prices for the Model 3 can start from £43,000, rising to nearly £60,000 for this Performance variant.
However, you can make huge savings by taking advantage of a
special Model 3 lease offer that is currently available at Carparison.
If you would like to know more, please get in touch or visit
www.carparisonleasing.co.uk to browse our latest prices.
Thanks for watching!