2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus - Review, 0-60 and More!
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 มิ.ย. 2021
- Check out my latest video upload where I review my 2007 Aston Martin Vantage! • 2007 Aston Martin Vant...
Today I review the 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus and answer the questions "Is it enough? "How does it compare to the Model 3 Long Range?", etc. My answers are YES, and very well! Let's look at the pros and cons:
Pros
- Handling: At only 3,600 pounds it's the lightest Tesla you can buy, and the handling is very sharp as a result. The car is over 400 pounds lighter than the Long Range version, a huge weight savings! Being rear-wheel drive (RWD) gives it BMW-like handling and balance
- Acceleration: 0-60 in 5.3 seconds is plenty fast. The mid-range punch is amazing too!
- Cost: Starting at $39,000, there's no better value car for the money
- Comfort: Quiet and smooth, this is a great road trip car! Just plan to charge it along the way :-)
- Sound System: Very nice, sounds better than I expected for a base model car
- Quality: The finish and finish are excellent for a car at this price point
- Looks: Updates to the wheel design as well as blackout trim on the windows and door handles looks great!
Cons
- Range: 263 mile stated range, but using the Tesla formula of charging to only 90% of capacity and not letting the battery get below 10% gives you about 200 miles of usable range. Not bad at all - but much lower than the long range version - though still sufficient for most people's driving needs. AND, still very similar to the range offered by competitors - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
Check out my latest video upload where I review my 2007 Aston Martin Vantage! th-cam.com/video/xE_HWpchI0M/w-d-xo.htmlsi=_-RQBUNEbo0g4v1N
Thanks for breaking down the nuances of this one so well. I plan on a purchasing the SR+ before the summer is over.
Glad you found the video helpful. Congrats on your upcoming purchase! I ordered my Model 3 Standard Range Plus 24 hours after filming the video! Needless to say, I was sold.
This was a great review! Thanks for giving all this info on acceleration and handling, You're one of the few i found that do it for the SR+! Ordered mine last week :)
Thanks for the comment! Glad you liked the review. Congrats on ordering one! I ordered mine about 2 weeks ago.
@@marclovescars I ordered my SR+ 2 weeks ago with delivery end of Sept.
@@lisawhite162 Nice, congrats! I'm a September delivery too. Can't wait.
Thank you for your honest opinion. I am getting my car in the next couple of weeks and I am excited!
Anytime, congrats on your new car and enjoy it!
Great review, we just ordered ours. Cannot wait!
Nice! Congrats! Eagerly waiting for mine to arrive as well.
Great video, love "this is all you need in the real world"👍
Excellent breakdown and video. I ordered a gray Model 3 SR+ on Tuesday and I am very excited to get my hands on it!
Thank you, and congrats! It's amazing how many people who've commented on my video just ordered a SR+, myself included!
Good choice, I ordered mine and should be getting it by end of the year
@@vancouverrealestate2766 Congrats! I got mine about a month ago and love it! You will too. It's hard to drive anything else now.
Sr+ is more than enough for 90% of people. Majority of people work and commute within 260 miles of their home. For the small amount of times someone travels outside of that range, there’s tons of chargers along the way. Doesn’t offset the difference in price increase for the dual motor. Only reason to really get the dual motor is if you ‘NEED’ the upgraded stereo and the extra power. The sr+ is definitely no slouch and is blistering fast at its price point
This is something I've been wondering. I'm debating on which I should get and the long range is tempting but my commute is about 24 miles round trip and son day care here and there and a few errands back and forth. I've been assuming that a SR+ is probably more than enough for me.
@@skdoublegaming it’s one of those things that if you have extra money to spend and you’re able to, then it never hurts to go for it. But if you’re like most people trying to just get what you need, then sounds like the sr+ is good enough for you. Depending on if your child uses a car seat, check out some of the videos so you have a good idea or even go in person to put the car seat in one if you can. There’s plenty of room to get a young one in and out if they’re in a car seat but the angle of the door frame is a little strange if it’s a rear facing. Also not sure your weather climate but if it’s a cold area you’ll lose a little range. The newer models have a heat pump and help immensely in efficiency
Thank you. I was wondering if to choose 3 SR+ or 3 LR and now I know!
Great, glad I could help!
Your story is very similar to mine, been wanting a Tesla ever since they came out, ordered one, then cancelled sadly because it took too long but I am on the list again and I won't be backing out this time! I can't wait to get it, congrats on yours!
Nice! Thankfully delivery these days is only a few months and fairly predictable, vs. way back when you and I first ordered. You'll be glad you gave Tesla a second chance! Such great cars. Enjoy yours!
thanks for the advice man
Anytime!
This was fantastic! I love your truth!
Thank you!
A had a test drive of a model 3 , it was smooth, quiet and intuitive. I was sold on them ,great car
Well said! I agree.
Very helpful. I’ve been on the fence about whether I need to spend the extra $9000, so this was very informative.
Thanks for the comment Art, glad it helped! The $9,000 premium + 400 pounds of added weight were something I considered for quite some time. The SR+ surprised me, I thought it wouldn't be enough for me.
Im on the fence about the extra money for the range as well. I may be ok with the SR+
@@jknuck05 After a month with the SR+ I feel even better about buying it. The range is not a problem at all; I keep it topped up with 110V or 240V charger and it's always ready to go. I rarely travel more then 200 miles round trip, and on those rare occasions when I do I charge it to 90% or even 100% to get full range. Saving the $10K and 400 pounds of weight vs. the AWD model was a great tradeoff for me! The RWD model handles nimbly and precisely, it's a joy to drive.
Pro tip: since most controls are near the edges. Put your hand along the edge of screen to stabilize while interacting with it.
This is probably the best choice for me. Faster than most cars, plus I drive reasonably sensible
Well said, I feel the same way.
thank you for your review! I am planing to order one after the new batterie upgrade hopefully near xmas. Did you test the soundsystem from both teslas? How do you like it in the sr+? greetz from Austria (without kangaroos)
Greetings @Thomas Dornig, I've been to Austria, beautiful country. Smart move to wait until you guys get the slightly larger battery with a bit extra range, that's what I did. The SR+ sound system is good, not great, but perfectly fine for the base model. As a point of comparison, my last 2 BMWs had the Harman Kardon system, so that's what I'm used to.
The Model Y I drove had an upgraded sound system I believe, but I was too busy zooming around to even test it, hah!
till this day this is the best video showcasing the model 3 standard range
That is very kind of you to say, and I’m glad to hear this. Thank you!
I’ve owned my Model 3 SR+ for 2 1/2 years now, in fact I just got back from a drive in it. I still love it as much as I did in this video. It truly is the best all-around car I’ve ever owned. I have had to take it on a few long road trips, and that is the only downside to this particular model. You have to charge frequently, especially at highway speeds, but I knew that going in, so no real surprise there. Best car I’ve ever owned!
Thank you for this video, going for same model. I Agree all doesn´t need the 3.0 sec 0-60;)
Nice! You will love it! You will rarely be wishing it was faster. 🙂
I never heard anyone complain who bought the LR model that they regret not getting the SR+. My suggestion is definitely get the LR model if the cost difference isn’t a stretch.
Yep good point, if I had the LR I'm sure I would love it and never give it back. I personally got the SR+ because I wanted a lower weight RWD car for the most agile handling possible. The cost savings were just a bonus. I also don't need more than 263 mile range. I do sometimes miss the thrust of those dual motors though, so intoxicating.
Great review. I already ordered one. I still hesitate if I should buy a used
low mileage model 3 performance for the same price.
You and me both. Depends on if you want an AWD power monster or a lightweight - nose light - precise handling machine. I’ve driven them back to back and the weight of the M3P is noticeable. But, the performance model has the edge in every other category. They are getting so cheap now it’s ridiculous! So tempting. I could easily buy a M3P but love my SR+ too much to let it go.
hey I am alao waiting for my SR+, will probably get it early next month!
Nice, welcome to the SR+ club! There are more of us than I thought. :-)
Long range n performance feels a lot more like a super car
I ordered SR+ in Sept waiting for it eagerly. I chose Blue on White. How do you like the audio sound system. Is it good? My SA said its fantastic but i could not listen to one since they only had LR as demo.
Depends on what you’re used to. For a base system I think it’s good, no complaints from me. But it’s nowhere near the sound of a Harman Kardon or similar premium audio system.
Blue on white is beautiful, great choice!
@@marclovescars Thanks. So i actually do own a 2019 Kia Sorento which is a gas killer lol. And it has Harman Kardon system. Honestly its good but when i compared that with the tesla brand LR M3 sound system i felt that one was much much crisp and clear. Just my observation during my test drive but again i didnt drive a SR+ and cant imagine it will be bad either. Thanks for your prompt reply. Yes i cant wait for my M3 🙂
@@deppi I believe the LR M3 has a premium audio system, which might be why it sounded really good.
Beautiful car and handles great! The Elephant in the room is how much of range loss to you get once Temps drop below 50F?
I typically see about 10% range loss, closer to 20% if temps get below freezing.
@@marclovescars HI Marc! I gotta ask is the overall price of the car worth the 15% range drop? I was being optimistic and went with 15%. LoL I'm not cheap just can't justify the current price because I know I will drive it aggressive and bitch about the range! LOL lol Enjoy the ride bud!
@@kv1930 to me it is. As I tried to state in the video, the main reason I own the rear wheel drive model is for lightweight, balanced handling. You cannot get that in any other Tesla, because every other Tesla model has all-wheel-drive. I don’t like the all-wheel-drive, much too heavy and you feel the weight in the nose of the car. is the range of the standard range plus/rear wheel drive model 3 frustrating? At times yes. But for me it was the best option. For most people I would say go with the long range all-wheel-drive option.
@@marclovescars Marc thank you for the education!! I would have to agree for me handling trumps range.....I did some soul searching and I take long road trips maybe every other year(2,000 miles each way). Cheers!
The performance is the way to go. It's a great sportscar, and the handling is simply amazing.
Good. I ordered one. 💪🏻
RWD is more than enough for a normal driver. I have the LR-RWD early model and i don't feel it is under power, when i floor the pedal, i feel like sitting in a roller coaster. Battery range is not the actual range. it is based on your driving behavior, the actual range is shown in the energy dashboard. Also focus on watt per mile. Higher the watt per mile, lower the range. If you keep it under 250 watt/mile, you get around 4 miles per KW which is very close to the estimated range. The watt/mile degrades with speed over 60mph, between 60-70mph it shoots up to 300watt/mile and over 70 -80, it is between 300-325. Road inclination also spikes watts/mile. You voice commands to run most of the features. Voice commands run AC, seat warmers, heater, wipers, taking/making calls, reading messages, playing music etc.
Excellent tips here, thank you @abansalify !
Great review. I bought an SR+ back in February 2021 and love it. The one thing about this car that is a con is that the charge rate is slower than the LR version. It will charge fast from 0% to about 75%, but then it slows down. It can take an hour for a full charge on the road to get the full range. That said, I have yet to take a trip that required more than one 30 minute charge en route. Also, I don't agree with you on the audio. I find it to be shrill and the bottom end doesn't fill it. That said, I love driving it, even if I mostly just drive around Brooklyn on the streets. Another plus that you allude to is that the efficiency on the SR+ is better than the others. The rated kwh/mi is much lower.
@bklyncyclist Thanks for the comment! I did not realize the SR+ charged at a slower rate; in my comparisons to the Model Y LR I rented it seemed about the same, though I didn't pay close attention at the 75% mark, very good to know!
Re: the audio, fair point, I simply thought the system was solid for a $40K car, I expected it to be terrible, not amazing by any means though. I've experienced way better car audio systems but they were usually in more expensive cars.
My SR+ arrives in September, can't wait! I'm picking up so many great tips in the comments here, they are much appreciated and preparing me well for ownership.
I am looking for winter reviews. How does the rear wheel drive do in snow and icy conditions?
@@lisabroestaff7133 Hi Lisa, unfortunately I can't comment on that with regards to the Model 3, but there are a few good TH-cam videos out there that do cover it.
However, I grew up in central NY which has brutal winters with tons of snow and ice. If you put a good set of snow tires on ANY car, you'll be fine. Literally, a front or rear wheel drive car with top snow tires on it will outperform an AWD car that has all seasons on it. As a former snow belt survivor I can tell you that how a car *stops* in the snow is most important, and AWD doesn't help with that at all. Snow tires do. Hope that helps.
@@lisabroestaff7133 I haven't driven my Model 3 SR+ in the snow or ice so I can't say for sure, but there are some good TH-cam reviews out there that have.
What I CAN tell you is I grew up in central NY, the snow belt, where winters were cold and there was always tons of snow and ice on the road. Any car - RWD, FWD or AWD - will drive extremely well in snow or ice as long as you put good winter tires on it. And actually, it's a documented fact that a RWD or FWD car with snow tires will out accelerate and out brake an AWD car with all season tires on it. In snowy conditions the most important thing is stopping, and a good winter tire will help you greatly there; AWD does nothing to help you stop better. AWD helps you accelerate better in snow and ice, but so will a RWD car with great snow tires on it. My favorites thus far are Bridgestone Blizzaks; you are in total command of the road even when there's snow and ice, gives me great peace of mind.
My $.02!
@@marclovescars I was wondering if I had to get the Tesla winter tires, but you answered my question. Thank you for such a detailed response. Before ordering my Tesla, I have owned only Mazda vehicles. I currently have a CX-5, and so the jump to fully electric is exciting, but a bit scary. I didn’t think that I wanted a sedan, so I only test drove the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and the Hyundai Kona. I tested the Tesla for fun because I didn’t think it was going to be an option for me. I think it’s fair to say that once you drive a Tesla, everything else pales in comparison.
What made you choose the 19” wheels over base?
Looks mainly, I don't care for the 18" aero wheels, even with the hubcaps removed. I think the 19" wheels look great. Though the aero wheels with hubcaps on improve range by 3%, based on a study I read.
Here in NJ there's a $5,000 rebate for the model and no sales tax on EVs. For my next car I was strongly considering an off lease Alfa Romeo, 3 series or MK8 GTI (currently have a MK7 GTI), but realizing that for just 3ish grand more than I'd spend on one of those cars (after incentives) I can have a new model 3 packed with tech, cut spending on gas and not have to do oil changes, spark plugs, etc... the model 3 is officially on my radar. I'm just not sure how much I can love an EV. I've always been all about the sounds of engines, feeling a car shift, etc. The tech in that model 3 tho...
Wow those are really compelling EV incentives in NJ! I was considering the same cars as you in fact, and my logic for getting the Model 3 was similar to yours. But, like you I'm not sure how much I'll love the driving experience long term, I love engine noise and transmissions shifts too. I guess we'll both we experimenting somewhat. We shall see!
@@marclovescars I had no idea how good the incentives were until the other night - didn't even think the Model 3 would be anywhere near my price range. I test drove an Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti sport a few months back and loved it, I've driven the G20 330i on several occasions and love that too. When I get really serious about looking I think I'll rent a Model 3 from Turo for a few days to get a good feel for what the EV experience is like.
@@benb2358 Good call, I rent every car I'm considering buying on Turo and put them through a full weekend test. It has saved me from many bad purchases! 24 hours after I returned the Model 3 I ordered one, for what it's worth. I'd be curious to hear your opinion after you rent one. Good luck with your decision! Can't go wrong with a Giulia or 330i either.
Hey @Ben B, I’m in Mahwah, North NJ and waiting delivery for the SR+. I was concerned about winter but after watching guys in Canada MORE than make do with winter tires, the $5k plus sales tax savings will more than offset a set of mounted winter tires for me! Great videos Marc 👍
@@SteveMidnight I have family in Mahwah! I can imagine that the hills in that area cause you more concern in regards to RWD vs AWD. In South Jersey where I am that is much less of a concern, being that it is relatively flat. I've also heard that a set of winter tires makes a world of difference.
Would have loved if you could show us the standard autopilot a bit more I see that you forgot to mention that!
Yes, you are right! I love to drive myself, become one with the car and experience every moment, and I really don’t use autopilot much. I also don’t love it as much as most people, it has many issues where I live that require my constant intervention. But you’re right, if I’m going to review a car I need to focus on what YOU care about, not me! A lesson learned for next time. Thanks for the comment!
@@marclovescars thanks for your cooperation on this matter, sorry if that sounded really rude! But since Tesla is know for it’s autopilot and self driving capability, just wanted see it being used! It’s no big issue; was great to see your review! And I Hope you have a great day!
I heard the white interior creates a glare in your side mirrors is this true?
Interesting point, I've heard that too, though I didn't notice any glare during my time with the car. I was so focused on other aspects of the car though I simply might not have been aware of it.
Marc, how did you sell your BMW? By ads or to a dealer? I drove this car a few weeks ago at a Tesla dealer in Walnut Creek! I ordered one.The sales lady said she had some inventory but I probably won’t get a new one until next year. I have two gas cars to sell!!
Congrats on the purchase Ronald! Sounds like we’re neighbors, WC isn’t far from me. Yes the wait for Model 3 SR+ is long right now, roughly June delivery date if you order online. Hopefully ordering at the dealer will get yours to you faster.
I sold my BMW on Craigslist, it was sold within 24 hours. I use CL for most car purchases/sales. But you have to deal with flaky people and can end up wasting a lot of time. I’d check out Carvana if you want a quick and easy sale, they are paying top dollar for cars right now, but you can probably make an extra $2K selling privately. Up to you!
@@marclovescars Thank you Marc for the advice!
The accessories don't use power from the battery pack. It's uses it from the 12v battery. The only things that use power directly from the pack it the motor, heater, and a/c.
Great to know, thanks! I discovered the 12V battery only recently and wasn't sure exactly what it powered and what it didn't. Now I know!
But the main battery powers the 12v battery.
@@davidreidenberg9941 Right, makes sense, no running engine to keep it charged up. So in a sense the 12V battery drains the main battery a bit to stay at 12.6 V charge, so I guess my assumption/statement in the video that running accessories drains the main battery was correct.
Unfortunately I am in love with the model Y. Never been a fan of sedans so it's perfect for me. I also live in Georgia where everything tends to be atleast a 20 minute drive so the SR+ just is not it for me.
Those are totally fair reasons to get a Y, and the Y is great! You can't go wrong!
You also save $$ on tires lol Heavy cars with crazy speed chew up tires!
I have a 2020 model 3 std range plus, my question is that, when I bought it, it has 250 miles of range and after 3609 miles of driving it only goes up to 235, is this natural?
Hi @Jun Villanueva, the 2020 model was rated at 250 miles, increased to 263 for 2021 so your max range of 250 was normal. Why it is only charging to 235 now is strange, the battery could not have degraded that quickly unless there is a problem. Is it possible that your car switched itself to 90% or 95% max charge (battery preservation setting), which means it would stop on 225/235 (or so) to preserve battery life? Go to your charging screen and see if the 235 max range appears when the ENTIRE battery is green (fully charged) or if there is a line near the end of the battery and a *not* green section which signifies that the car is purposely not charging past the line.
@@marclovescars I will do what you suggested. Thank you
isnt the 2021 version equiped with the LFP battery? if so, you should charge it to 100% every chance possible...
LFP battery was added late 2021. Model 3 SR+ up until about November 2021 had old battery, including the car I drove in this video.
I took delivery of an SR+ in mid-August 2021, does not have LFP battery.
@@marclovescars i guess it was only in europe than, i believe they started coming with LFP, late 2020.
@@Hypnot47 Correct, LFP launched in other markets first.
What about missing all-wheel drive in this model?
Yes that is definitely a drawback. Me, I prefer RWD for light, balanced handling. But for those who need AWD this won’t work for them.
What is the music in the beginning?
Hi Chris, it's called Gothic, it's included with the video editing software I use.
A second motor is helpful in case one fails
An excellent point. Odds of a motor failing are low, but if it does it's nice to know you can keep motoring with plenty of power.
LOL I thought my m3P is barely quick enough
Can you get a acceleration boost on this car?
Unfortunately no you cannot, not from Tesla anyway. If you could I'd buy it in a second! You can however buy a non-Tesla upgrade unit that gives the car a rumored 50hp gain, but I'm not comfortable doing that. This is the one I'm referencing: tunezilla.com/tesla/boost-sr Would not work on the newer RWD model, only certain SR+ older models with the 980 motor.
Does (yours) the Model 3 Standard Range Plus - come with a Heated Steering Wheel? and Heat Pump? - Thanks !
@mikelieber1 Yes 2021 models have both a heat pump and heated steering wheel.
No it doesn’t
Tesla model 3 sr+ does not have heated steering. No hardware confirmed by Tesla, I have one and I’m super disappointed. Marc is wrong
@@HelloMadison1000 I stand corrected. Only the LR and Performance Model 3 have the heated steering wheel, my mistake. Another thing the SR+ gets robbed of, like floormats.
All late 2021 and later have the heated steering wheel and rear heated seats
are the wheels on your car standard?
@Jay who No, they are the upgraded 19" sport wheels.
The LR is a much better value - especially equipment and features wise.
I could never have white seats, I eat and drink in my car.
Hah same, but mostly because I have a toddler. I ordered black interior.
So it’s that price with no auto pilot correct?
Correct. Autopilot adds $10K, which to me is ridiculous. Tesla offers a monthly subscription now though, $200/month. You literally check a box in the Tesla app and boom, it's enabled. I might give it a try someday, for now I love driving the car myself, it's a lot of fun.
@@marclovescars Thanks for the reply you’re right that is ridiculous it should come standard with the car that’s why I want to buy a Tesla because it has that option however I didn’t know about the $200 a month option I think I’ll try that instead thanks again for the review
@@marclovescars wait I thought autopilot came free? That’s the one that you can use within the same lane. The option that adds 10k to price is the “full self driving” where the car completely drives itself
@@jl2966 Autopilot is free, and it does a decent job. Full self driving is $10K.
is there a built in gps
@Jay who Yes
Crazy to think the model 3 is cheaper than a specked up Peugeot 3008
Wow that is crazy! Though the cost of a base Model 3 RWD has gone up since I made this review, by $6,000 in fact. Still a good value, but less so.
Well, 41K + destination charge + sales tax = 46.5K And most Tesla owners buy after market accessories so total cost could come closer to 50K (for 2021 M3 SR+). Average new car nowadays is around 32K so it's still a good value.
you forgot EV incentive and rebate
I got mine for $43k out the door. And that's because I opted for the $1k black color.
Anyone else get stressed with how close he gets to curbs
The only thing I found interesting is your preference to driving the 3 over the BMW. Nice to hear it said!
Your a bit old to have such a heavy foot, it's childish and whooping in up on highway entry is not smart driving.
I suggest you pay more attention to your energy consumption graphics and even out you foot stomping ways.
As far as making yourself feel ill because of heavy accelerator use, well that just plain stupid. Ya don't stick your finger over a flame cause it burns and I would think your driving habits making you feel queasy once would be enough to change your driving habits. Evidently NOT and is specifically why I gave you a thumbs down.
The car handles great but nothing is free, fast cornering increases tire wear, faster starts decrease range.
jeez, toxic much? I think it was a great review. First off he is driving this car to test it through various different extreme scenarios. Its a rental car, not his own car, I'm sure he is aware of the tire wear and would be more cautious if it were his own car. The way he was driving is to feel out the car and review it...its given that no one drives like that on day to day basis.
@@Zswxde100 I don't know about toxic, but critical, yes.
I guy renting Tesla's for review purposes is hardly something anyone needs. On top of that the whole queasy thing I find absurd.
I've had my LR 3 over six months now and enjoy it immensely. I made the decision early on that just because it corners like it's on rails, doing so will give that "tires replaced at 30k" complaint I've heard so much about. Your either a foot stomper or you tend to conserve energy. I'm the latter and still manage to get a buzz over its responsiveness and handling.
First drive in the morning still feels special. The quiet, smooth, techie feel of this car doesn't feel like it's ever going away. I moved up from a 2008 G35, a very nice car but there's simply no way it can compete with a new Tesla.
I watched the video and shockingly, I had an opinion about it and made a comment.
Isn't that what this is about?
Horrible, judgmental comment. The whole POINT of a Tesla (at least at first!) is to STOMP it! And one never gets “too old” to enjoy a good rush of acceleration.
@@Rick9482 This car was made to have fun in it, Elon Musk himself has said that’s what makes the Tesla so special. There is a difference between being critical and judgmental and you sir, are very judgmental.