Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.MSRP: $38,630Use the table of contents to jump to a sectionOverviewTesla essentially created the compact electric sedan segment with the Model 3 almost a decade ago when the car first launched as a 2017 model. Even today, it's still one of the class benchmarks for acceleration, efficiency, and driving range, despite the proliferating competition. Add to that Tesla's expansive Supercharger network, and the Model 3 is still a compelling choice.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe 2024 "Highland" refresh saw a raft of improvements, improving ride quality, cabin materials, and sound deadening, and these carry forward to the 2025 Model 3. The changes have kept the Model 3 in the running as a strong player in this sector, but have done little to fix criticisms like the button-less interior requiring the touchscreen for virtually every function, the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the elimination of traditional column stalks.What's New for 2025?For 2025, the Tesla Model 3 compact electric sedan continues unchanged, except for the elimination of the cheapest Standard Range trim. Tesla continues to update the car with new features over the air as they become available.ExteriorThe Model 3's sleek silhouette has become a familiar sight in recent years, and the Highland updates refined it with a sharper and more modern appearance, thanks to narrower headlights and new taillights. Flush door handles, smooth lines, and an aerodynamic profile contribute to its slippery shape to minimize drag and optimize range. The standard 18-inch wheels have aerodynamic covers, but you can upgrade to 19-inch alloys, while the Performance runs on 20s and adds a carbon-fiber rear spoiler.Tesla MotorsInteriorThe defining characteristic of the Model 3's cabin is minimalism, for better or for worse. Tesla has removed nearly every button and switch from the cabin, even the indicator stalk, and has relegated everything to the 15.4-inch centrally mounted touchscreen. Rear passengers get an eight-inch central screen, giving them access to climate functions and entertainment/gaming.AdvertisementAdvertisementComfort has been improved for the Highland update, and the front seats are now heated and ventilated as standard. Practicality is as good as ever, with a flat floor giving a sense of space, but rear-seat passengers may find that they sit rather low. This is probably intentional to preserve rear headroom in view of the receding roofline. Cargo capacity is 24 cu-ft, including the frunk.Tesla Model 3TeslaView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articlePrice Range and Best Value TrimThe 2025 Tesla Model 3's price is a bit higher this year, now that the base trim is gone:Trim LevelPriceBase trim: Long Range RWD~$42,740Top trim: Performance~$55,240Best value trim: Long Range RWD~$42,740With only two trims in the lineup this year, the cheaper Long Range RWD is the best combination of price, efficiency, and range (363 miles), making it the sweet spot for most buyers.Key SpecsPowertrainTrimHorsepowerTorqueTransmissionDrivetrainLong Range RWD~285-286 hp~309-322 lb-ftDirect-DriveRWDLong Range AWD~394-425 hp~377-475 lb-ftDirect-DriveAWDPerformance510 hp~546-554 lb-ftDirect-DriveAWDBattery and RangeTrimBattery CapacityEPA Est. RangeLong Range RWD~79.7-82 kWh346-363 milesLong Range AWD~79.7-82 kWh346 milesPerformance~79.7-82 kWh298 milesEfficiency (MPGe)TrimCityHighwayCombinedLong Range RWD145128137Long Range AWD133122128Performance113104109WarrantyTesla's basic limited warranty runs for four years/50,000 miles, while battery and drive components are covered for eight years/100,000 miles. Long Range models get an additional 20,000 miles of battery coverage.CoverageDurationLimited Warranty4 years / 50,000 milesPowertrain Warranty8 years / 100,000 milesComplimentary MaintenanceNonePros and ConsPros:AdvertisementAdvertisementExcellent driving range up to 363 milesRapid acceleration across all trims (2.9-4.9 seconds to 60 mph)Improved ride comfort and cabin quietnessAccess to the Tesla Supercharger networkCons:Over-reliance on touchscreen controlsNo Apple CarPlay or Android AutoReal-world range falls short of EPA estimatesRear seats are a little cramped for adultsVerdictIn many ways, the 2025 Tesla Model 3 is still the compact electric sedan to beat, with its combination of performance, an impressive range, and Tesla's market-leading Supercharger network, which is a combination rivals currently can't match. Last year's Highland refreshed fixed most of the issues we had with the Model 3, improving cabin quality, noise levels, and ride comfort. The button- and stalk-free cabin will still frustrate many users, though.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Long Range RWD stands out as the best value in the range, with an excellent 363-mile range and a 0-60 sprint in just 4.9 seconds, despite being the cheapest Model 3 in the lineup. The Performance provides the ultimate excitement, with its track-ready suspension, and cutting that time to below three seconds, but it costs $12K more. Typical Model 3 rivals in this class include the BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Polestar 2, but the Tesla's combination of efficiency and performance pip them to the post for many buyers.Best suited for: Drivers who need long-range capability and access to Tesla's Supercharger network, as well as small families and tech-loving commuters.TeslaCompetitors:Hyundai Ioniq 6 & Ioniq 6 NBMW i4Toyota MiraiShop the Car MarketplaceView the original article to see embedded media.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis story was originally published by Autoblog on Jul 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the Cars section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.