2027 Tesla Model 3William Walker - MotorTrendSpacious layoutEasy chargingAffordableUninspiredToo much touchscreenRange, charging only decentThe Tesla Model 3 is perhaps the most mainstream EV out there. Originally introduced in 2017, the Model 3 received a major refresh for 2024. It's always been about making electric driving seem normal, and the way it does that has earned it massive sales success—but that doesn't mean the Model 3 is the best EV on sale today.AdvertisementAdvertisementRival electric cars include the BMW i3, Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric, and Kia EV4.What's NewTesla doesn't really do model year updates like most automakers, instead gradually integrating changes into its vehicles. The Model 3 could get a few minor hardware and feature changes for 2027, while improvements to its software are sure to arrive.This page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.What We ThinkEssentially the default electric car, the Tesla Model 3 has mainstream appeal—though just because it's popular doesn't mean it's perfect.The updated Highland version improves some of the car's initial weaknesses, with a quieter cabin, nicer materials, better build quality, and a smoother ride. It now drives more like a finished car than a rolling software interface.AdvertisementAdvertisementStill, the Model 3 asks buyers to accept Tesla's unconventional approaches. Nearly everything runs through the touchscreen, the turn signals and gear selector are needlessly fussy, and the cabin layout is functional but stark. Real-world range also falls short of estimates, even though access to Tesla's charging network remains a huge advantage.The Model 3 Performance is ridiculously quick for the money and more polished than before, but it isn't an enthusiast's dream car. Range takes a hit, the standard all-season tires undermine its handling, and its subdued looks are misaligned with its speed.Even so, the Model 3's mix of value, efficiency, charging access, and performance keeps it a sales leader among EV sedans.Top-Ranked Competitors:Kia EV4BMW i3Mercedes-Benz CLA ElectricAudi A6 E-TronMotorTrend TestedThe entry-level Model 3 uses a single motor for the rear wheels that produces 275 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. That enables a 0–60-mph time of 5.6 seconds.AdvertisementAdvertisementDual-motor AWD is available, increasing output to 394 hp and 377 lb-ft of torque. With this powertrain, the Model 3 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds.More speed is provided by the Model 3 Performance, which makes 510 hp and 554 lb-ft of torque. In MotorTrend testing, the Model 3 Performance hit 60 mph in 2.9 seconds.Tesla Model 3 Performance: How Quick Is It Really?When MotorTrend tested the Model 3 Performance, the 510-hp car accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds and through the quarter mile in 11.1 seconds at 123.2 mph.But Tesla's sport sedan isn't only about straight-line speed. Its 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, and larger brakes all contribute to improved handling, as well. The built-in Track driving mode allows the driver to adjust powertrain torque split, stability control leniency, and other settings.AdvertisementAdvertisementSubtle vents and a trunk spoiler give the Model 3 slightly more street presence, though rival cars tend to look much more aggressive to visually convey their sporty intentions.What's the Cheapest Model 3?Tesla sells a lower-cost Model 3 called the Standard. It uses a single motor driving the rear wheels, a smaller battery pack, and 18-inch wheels. Visually, it does little to separate itself from the rest of the lineup, but the cost cutting becomes obvious inside.To hit its price point, Tesla strips out numerous features. The rear touchscreen is gone, along with ambient lighting, perforated leatherette upholstery, ventilated front seats, premium audio, a power-adjustable steering column, and power-folding side mirrors. Even Tesla's familiar Autopilot driver assistance suite isn't included.That leaves the Standard feeling cheaper than its name might suggest. Still, its starting price of just under $40,000 makes it the most affordable new Tesla.EV Range and ChargingDriving range for the Model 3 Standard is estimated at about 320 miles.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Model 3 Premium has approximately 360 miles of range with RWD. With AWD, it's estimated at about 345 miles, but in MotorTrend's Road-Trip Range Test it covered only 250 miles before needing to plug in at 5 percent charge.Tesla says the Model 3 Performance is good for slightly more than 300 miles of driving range, and in MotorTrend's testing it went 265 miles on a charge.Maximum charging capacity for the Model 3 is 250 kW, allowing for relatively quick charging. The Model 3 has access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.Safety Ratings and Self-Driving FeaturesIn its most recent IIHS testing for 2026, the Model 3 earned the top Good score in the small front overlap and updated side crash test. However, the car received the second-best score of Acceptable in the updated moderate front overlap test. This is a downgrade from 2025, when the Model 3 earned Top Safety Pick status; IIHS' procedures have become stricter.Standard FeaturesEvery Model 3 is equipped with automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beams.Available FeaturesTesla's so-called Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology is offered on a subscription basis for the Model 3. FSD uses the car's integrated cameras to provide a high level of autonomous driving capability on nearly every public road.Cargo Space and Interior RoomSmart packaging and layout give the Model 3 a surprisingly good amount of passenger and cargo capacity for a compact sedan.TechnologyInfotainmentEvery Model 3 is equipped with a 15.4-inch touchscreen. Essentially all vehicle functions are controlled through that screen, from selecting drive and reverse to adjusting the air vents. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available, but built-in navigation, the Grok AI voice assistant, media streaming services, and built-in gaming are included.AdvertisementAdvertisementTesla's mobile app provides a connection to the vehicle from afar. There are two wireless charging pads in the front row and three USB-C ports in the cabin.Sound SystemThe Model 3 Standard has a seven-speaker audio system, the Premium trim has a nine-speaker setup, and the Performance model gets a 15-speaker system.Available UpgradesIn Premium and Performance trims, the Model 3 gains multicolor ambient lighting, an 8.0-inch second-row touchscreen, and FM radio.ValueStandard FeaturesPricing for the 2027 Model starts at slightly less than $40,000. Standard exterior features include 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, a glass roof, and a power-operated trunk. Inside, it has a 15.4-inch touchscreen, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, and dual wireless charging pads.Recommended TrimIn Premium trim, the Model 3 upgrades with upgraded suspension shock absorbers, trim-specific 18-inch wheels, and power-folding side mirrors. The cabin gains perforated leatherette upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, an 8.0-inch rear seat touchscreen, color-adjustable ambient lighting, and premium speakers. The Model 3 Premium starts at about