After a long wait, the new 2018 Tesla Model 3 is finally revealed. Designed to achieve the highest safety ratings in all categories, the new addition to the Tesla line-up is bringing highly dynamic all-electric capabilities. With its amazing drive range and stunning minimalistic good looks, the Model 3 is already winning the hearts of EV enthusiasts across the globe.
Tesla designed the Model 3 as a more affordable and simpler sedan than their flagship Model S. However, at the same time, Tesla has ensured that the new compact sedan has a brilliant performance, luxurious interior and superior capabilities.
The Model 3 does not only look good, it is also being labelled as the safest car in its class.
Here is a review of the 2018 Tesla Model 3, but before that, let us discuss the difference between the Model S and Model 3.
Also read: Tesla Model S and Model X Updated for Enhanced Performance
How Model 3 is Different from Model S?
There are many design similarities between the Model S and Model 3, however, this is where the similarities end. Both these sedans offer a different level of performance and capabilities according to their segments.
- Performance: The Model S can go from 0 to 60mph in just 2.5 – 4.5 seconds, while the Model 3 can go from 0 to 60mph in 5.1 – 5.6 seconds.
- Drive Range: Tesla Model S offers a drive range of 249 – 335 miles, whereas Model 3 offers 220 – 310 miles.
- Supercharging: Model S owners can enjoy free unlimited supercharging, while the Model 3 drivers would have to pay per use for supercharging.
- Seating Capacity: Tesla Model S is capable of seating 5 adults and 2 children with rear facing seats, whereas the Model 3 offers seating for 5 passengers.
- Cargo Capacity: The Model S has front and rear trunk cargo volume of 30 cubic feet with power liftgate, while the Model 3 offers front and rear cargo volume of 15 cubic feet with manual trunk operation.
- Digital Display: For the Model S, Tesla added one digital display and another 17-inch touchscreen, whereas the Model 3 offers one 15-inch centre touchscreen.
Exterior of 2018 Model 3
At first glance, one can notice that the design of the Model 3 is very similar to the Model S. The exterior has sleek lines, simple front fascia and a sporty stance. There is no conventional grille at the front of the sedan, instead, it has a flat and broad front, which represents the characteristic design ideology of the brand.
Although the front fenders are very similar to Model S, the headlight design is new with thin LED headlight and daytime running lights. The front and rear of the compact sedan have short overhangs, whereas the roofline makes the sedan look taller and sharper. Thanks to this design, the passengers can enjoy more leg and head room. However, the cabin can become even more spacious if the vehicle is purchased with a glass roof configuration. The rear of this all-new sedan also features LED taillights with a new design that further enhances the look of the rear of the vehicle.
The Model 3 has standard 18-inch wheels with the option of 19-inch sport wheels. This sedan will come in 5 exterior colour options, offers 0.23 drag co-efficient and has a ground clearance of 5.5-inches.
Luxurious Interior
The interior of the all-new Tesla Model 3 features a minimalist design with a virtual absence of any buttons, switchgear or toggles. On the front, the sedan features a 3-spoke steering wheel with controls for entertainment on both sides.
At the moment, Tesla is only offering left hand configuration, however, right hand configuration is also expected to be available in the global car markets by next year. As for the standard features, the seats have cloth upholstery, a rear-view camera, auto dimming rear-view mirror, power-adjusting side-view mirrors, one-touch power windows in the front and back and dual-zone climate control.
Cargo space is available on both front and back (as there is no combustion engine) and the rear cargo capacity can be increased, thanks to the 60/40 split folding rear seats. Of course, the interior is designed to be comfortable for the driver and the passengers.
A look inside Model 3 pic.twitter.com/hIhAZn4Sdj
— Tesla (@TeslaMotors) July 29, 2017
Performance 2018 Tesla Model 3
The entry level 2018 Tesla Model 3 will be a rear-wheel drive sedan (with an option of all-wheel drive) and will offer 215 mile range. This version will be able to go from 0 to 60mph in just under 6 seconds that has led to speculations that it will have 300 horsepower.
Moreover, it is widely known that Tesla is planning on offering a dual motor version of this vehicle with all-wheel drive. As of right now, the battery range is between 70-kWh and 90-kWh with dual motor configurations.
The top speed of this all-electric sedan is 130mph on the standard model, while the long range model will have the top speed of 140mph. Similarly, the mile range will also increase to 310 miles with the long range model.
Also read: Top 5 Reasons to Buy an Electric Vehicle in the UAE
Safety and Convenience Features
Although Tesla has not announced the details, but the brand has mentioned that the new Model 3 will have the following safety features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Collision Avoidance
- Eight Airbags
- Electronic Stability
- Traction Control
Another thing to be noted about the safety features is that the CEO of Tesla, Elon Musk, has promised that this sedan will receive 5-star rating in every safety test category as it was designed to be the safest in its segment.
As for convenience features, the Model 3 comes fitted with:
- 15-Inch Touchscreen With On-Board Maps & Navigation
- Keyless Entry
- Wi-Fi And LTE Internet Connectivity
- Remote Climate Control With App
- Voice Activated Controls
Watch a Tesla Model 3 vs. Volvo S60 side-pole impact test pic.twitter.com/dXBQkstrdo
— Tesla (@TeslaMotors) July 29, 2017
Available Premium Upgrades
Even though the 2018 Model 3 is a dynamic vehicle in its standard version, Tesla is offering multiple premium upgrade options for a more luxurious and enhanced interior. These premium upgrades include premium cabin materials, two rear USB ports, 12-way power adjustable front seats, custom driver profiles and LED fog lamps.
The Price of 2018 Tesla Model 3 in the UAE
Tesla has not announced the launch date or price of Tesla Model 3 for the UAE car market, it is expected that the Model 3 will make it to the UAE car market soon. As of now, the price of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 base version is $35,000 in the US.
This is an all-electric vehicle that is ideal for the UAE car market, as the UAE government is encouraging buyers to opt for electric and hybrid cars under its new incentive programme for electric car buyers. The fact that the Model 3 offers great luxury, safety and high performance is an additional incentive for motorists who prefer electric vehicles.
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