Tesla Model 3 Buying Guide
The Tesla Model 3 has become one of the most popular electric vehicles on the market, particularly in the United Kingdom. Its combination of performance, technology, and range has made it a favourite among eco-conscious drivers. However, if you're thinking of purchasing one—whether new or used—there are a few important things to consider. This guide will help you make an informed decision when buying your Tesla Model 3.
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1. Model Variants and Prices
The Tesla Model 3 comes in a few different configurations, which affect its price and performance. The main variants are:
- Standard Range Plus (Rear-Wheel Drive): This is the entry-level model, offering good performance, a reasonable range, and access to most of Tesla’s features.
- Long Range (All-Wheel Drive): This variant offers a larger battery, providing a longer range and better performance, especially in challenging weather conditions. It’s ideal if you plan on longer journeys or need to regularly drive in harsher conditions.
- Performance (All-Wheel Drive): As the name suggests, this variant offers enhanced performance with quicker acceleration and a higher top speed. It’s the model to choose if performance is a priority.
Prices can vary depending on the model and any optional upgrades you choose. Be sure to check the current pricing on Tesla’s UK website, as it can fluctuate with government incentives or special offers.
2. Range and Charging
Range is one of the key selling points of the Tesla Model 3, but the actual range you’ll get depends on the model and driving conditions. The Standard Range Plus has an estimated range of around 278 miles, while the Long Range and Performance models can reach up to 348 miles on a single charge.
Charging is relatively straightforward in the UK, with access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network and home charging solutions. If you have off-street parking, installing a home charger is a good investment. The Supercharger network is convenient for longer trips, though it's worth checking for nearby Supercharger locations when planning your journey.
When purchasing a used Tesla, it’s important to ask the seller about the vehicle’s battery health. Over time, the battery will degrade, reducing the range. Tesla provides software that helps monitor battery health, but it’s still useful to be cautious when buying a used vehicle.
3. Autopilot and Full Self-Driving
Tesla’s Autopilot system provides advanced driver assistance, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic lane changes. Full Self-Driving (FSD) is an additional option that offers more advanced features, such as Navigate on Autopilot, automatic parking, and summon (which allows your car to park itself or come to you).
Keep in mind that while Autopilot and FSD provide impressive features, they are not fully autonomous systems, and the driver must remain alert and ready to take control of the vehicle at any time. The cost of FSD is substantial, so it’s worth weighing whether these features are necessary for your driving needs.
4. Interior and Features
The interior of the Tesla Model 3 is minimalist, with a large central touchscreen that controls almost all vehicle functions. This can take some getting used to, especially if you're accustomed to physical buttons and dials, but many owners find it intuitive once they adapt.
The touchscreen is the hub for everything from climate control to navigation, music, and even opening the glovebox. The lack of physical controls contributes to a clean, modern aesthetic, but it’s worth considering whether you’ll be comfortable with the reliance on touchscreen controls.
The Model 3 also comes with a good range of standard features, including heated seats, a premium audio system (depending on the model), and a generous suite of connectivity options like Bluetooth and in-car streaming services. You can also expect regular over-the-air software updates that continually improve the car’s performance and features.
5. Safety and Reliability
Tesla has a strong reputation for safety, with the Model 3 receiving high marks in crash tests and offering a range of safety features. These include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and front and side collision warnings. The Model 3 also benefits from Tesla’s robust build quality and the safety inherent in an electric car's design, which has fewer moving parts than a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle.
That said, it’s important to keep in mind that, like all cars, the Model 3 will require regular maintenance. Though Tesla vehicles are known for requiring less maintenance compared to traditional cars, you’ll still need to budget for things like tyre replacements, brake servicing (the regenerative braking system helps to reduce wear), and annual service checks.
6. Used vs New
If you're considering buying a used Tesla Model 3, it’s important to do thorough research. Tesla’s vehicles tend to hold their value well, but used models can still provide significant savings compared to new ones. When buying a used Model 3, ensure that the vehicle’s software is up to date, check the battery’s health, and verify the remaining warranty.
Tesla offers an 8-year warranty on the battery and drive unit, which can give you peace of mind when purchasing a used car. However, if you're buying a used Model 3, check if there are any additional warranties in place or if the original owner has added any upgrades.
7. Tax Incentives and Running Costs
In the UK, there are several government incentives to encourage electric vehicle adoption, including grants for charging infrastructure and exemption from certain taxes. While the £2,500 Plug-in Car Grant is no longer available for new Tesla purchases, there are still other savings to be made, such as lower road tax and congestion charge exemptions.
Running costs for the Model 3 are generally lower than for traditional vehicles, especially in terms of fuel (electricity is cheaper than petrol or diesel). However, you should still factor in potential charging costs, especially if you plan to rely on public charging networks.
Conclusion
The Tesla Model 3 is a well-rounded, practical electric vehicle that offers impressive performance, a modern design, and a good range of features. Whether you're purchasing a new or used Model 3, it's important to carefully consider the model variant, range, charging options, and any additional features you may want. With proper research and understanding of the costs involved, owning a Model 3 in the UK can be a rewarding and environmentally friendly choice.