As subscribers know, I am not easily pleased and have been critical of Tesla products where they need improvement. Very pleased to see the brand acting on feedback.
@chasingcars Great review as usual. I have a pre-facelift car and am thinking of upgrading after I test drove an update model last week. What did you think about the lack of stalks and having to change from park to drive on the touch screen? P.S. I only discovered the seats are ventilated at the end of the test drive and that probably won me over.
@@Dan4096I been driving new model 3 for a month. The change gear at the screen is fast and smooth. Plus you don't really need change gear until you are doing side or reserve parking. The signal button is a bit tricky, on norma road or big roundabout no problem, small roundabout need time to get it. If you are slow to adapt just spend some money to get sexy buttons and make 2 of them permanent signal buttons. This car is so good that if you decided not to get it because of signal button, you will miss out a very good car.
@@wensiangfong I don't care about the signal buttons and I'm quick to adapt. I am a fan of reverse parking but I don't think the swipe to drive will put me off much if I'm sitting in air conditioned seats. 😀
You should edit this video with the rear cupholder info and access to the trunk. It's misleading currently and pretty bad considering there are many other reviews already out showing these things.
I see him around. I don’t know if he describes himself as a journalist but he is doing motoring journalist style work. I don’t gatekeep the profession. Maybe he would call himself an EV content creator.
I was planning on buying a new model 3 but unfortunately I found the turn signal buttons on the steering wheel so annoying to use that it became a deal breaker for me. There are roundabouts everywhere here in Norway, and you have to first blink into one, and then out again when exiting. I've been using a new model S for several months, but could never get used to those turn signal buttons. They work ok in intersections and when going more or less straight, but it's extremely frustrating to use in roundabouts when you have to rotate the wheel a lot, and you have no idea where the buttons end up. It's simply impossible to engage the turn signal in a tight roundabout without looking down at the steering wheel first, and taking your eyes off the road in a critical situation with cars all around you to look down at the wheel is the last thing you want to do. I also find that the buttons are not always responsive. Sometimes it doesn't engage, so you have to press again, or you end up pressing the wrong one. It's a stupid cost cutting measure, at the expense of usability and safety. Norwegian driving schools have even banned the new model 3 because they claim it causes their students to flunk their test in roundabouts... I love so many of the other upgrades, but I just can't have a car that makes me frustrated and annoyed every time I drive it. It was a mistake to remove the stalks, at least for the EU marked. It probably works very well in the US and other places with few roundabouts though.
Doesn't work well in US either. Did a test drive and encountered so many situations where i had to look down to see where the button is. And it doesnt click sometimes as you said. But i have to try it regardless
Thought my wife would immediately hate the lack of stalks. Complete opposite. She found it intuitive and easy to use from the first minute. Model 3 LR to be ordered.
Yep, I expected to despise it and it was a total anticlimax and absolutely fine (for me). Not saying everyone will have my experience or have to agree with me.
@@SirDragonClaw yeah totally, when I am on a roundabout and need to indicate, I find the indicator buttons being upside down and on the wrong side of the wheel a real advantage.
@@M4rt_FX exactly, it is nice being able to afford a car that comes with stalks, real buttons for common controls, a speed reading that is actually in front of you, oh and parking sensors. Maybe you will be able to get a car with those features one day.
It does have a center arm rest the middle headrest is incorporated in it. As soon as Highland performance comes out in United States I'm buying it!!! Stealth Grey dark interior. Super excited. First EV Great video 😎👍🏻
@@booooooooooooooooooooooo I'm glad you said that , it's my first EV I am coming from a Toyota Corolla '15 no problems !!! It's a Toyota. I'm a little nervous just because I don't know what to expect. Have you had any major issues with your M3 ? Everyone I talk to love their Teslas even with small issues with some owners. When I went on test drive it was so fun !! So planted to the pavement, acceleration was unworldly, comfortable to drive, the tech and I love the minimalism. Aaron
I wouldn't hold my breath on them adding a performance model for the model 3. I think they are positioning it in such a way that the S is the performance model. Wouldn't be surprised to see them do the same thing with the Model Y refresh.
I'm eagerly awaiting my M3 delivery and am very glad to see the positive reviews it's receiving. This is my first EV and I love the synergy between intuive tech and performance.
Another point. I own a Mode 3 Performance and an X Plaid. The frunk in the M3 is more usable because it isnt carpeted, you can stuff there anything from dirty equipment to a take away food, easier to clean if something spills
Great review as always, Tom! We've had our standard Model Y since September 2022 and frequently road trip from Sydney to Sunshine Coast and had 2 takeouts: 1. Jeez I want those ventilated seats! 2. Range has never been an issue like we thought it would be before buying
I am pretty sure there is a rear center armrest. The entire section with the headrest folds down. Also, I never would have classified the pre-refresh seat material as shiny or plasticy. It looks exactly the same to me aside from the perforations and stitching alterations.
The FSD computer isn't an option, it's standard. They all have the hardware capable of doing it, i.e. they all have the option to buy FSD after purchase (once it's released in Australia).
@@Appox7 the hardware is standard, as in it's capable of running the software (older models are not necessarily, as they have weaker computers). obviously the software is not standard.
lol..if you dont pay for it. It isn't considered standard. In car term terminology, comes standards means you can use it without having to pay to access it..@@amesoeurs
The next review I'd like to hear about how you get along with no stalks on busy city streets, roundabouts, carparks, etc. It looked like most of the driving was on a closed road with no lane changes and no other cars around. No stalks is arguably the most controversial change, yet it wasn't even mentioned.
What you see in the video doesn't make up all of the testing and preparation that goes into a review like this. Did well over 200km in Sydney in city streets and as I have said to other commenters, I didn't have an issue with the buttons for indicators.
I've found the whole non-ventilated seats thing hugely overblown. I've been through 3 summers with a Model 3 (white interior) and Model Y (black interior) now and have been perfectly fine even on the hottest days. The aircon works well, and the ability to precondition the cabin 5 mins before you hop in is a blessing.
Overblown, nice pun! Obviously you’re entitled to your view but I haven’t found this interior comfortable temperature wise in the past. And I suppose Tesla received similar feedback often enough to make the change.
I agree with you as well - I even use seat heating in Summer as it helps with my lower back that often gets sore. I've never felt the need for cooled seats, and I live in Qld!
It's 100% a personal preference(or how hot you run..) Even if you froze the seats before I get into the model 3 my back will be sweaty by the end of a 30min trip. My wife uses the heated seats all the time, I couldn't imagine anything worse. If we had the new M3 I'd have it on cool and she will have it one heat, all year round.
I have the new M3 LR highland, it's amazing and handles like a go kart. Fast, quiet and very comfortable. I previously had a Mercedes cla45 AMG and this is so much better on all levels. Congratulations Tesla on producing such a fantastic car!
I actually had to go back and re-record commentary on it because for *me* it was such a non-issue, and I did a lot of mileage in this car. It didn’t affect me in the slightest. But a lot of people don’t like it and that’s a fine view to have.
@@chasingcars the model 3 has been a daily drive for me for 4 years so the issues are more evident. It is less about the indicator but more about the dodgy windscreen wipers needing to be manually corrected, switching between forward/reverse when parking etc, engaging and disengaging cruise and autopilot. I suspect I would need to look away from the road more.
@@chasingcars It would have been better if you included yourself testing it around small roundabouts, which is the main concern many people have and they'd love to see it in action. To not include/test such a big change in the refresh seems a bit strange to me.
@@saintzaIn Australia or at least NSW you don't have to indicate out of small roundabouts unless practical to do so. ie it can be just as difficult to do with stalks because the exits are so close together. I assume this only refers to the left hand indicator when going straight ahead...
Yeah it is a downgrade USS work really well, they are very consistent and accurate, many reviewers have tested including Ludicrous Feed in Australia, RSEV in the UK.
I agree it is a downgrade and having USS would be better - but I didn't bump into anything, so I guess that is a start! I found the Vision readings accurate most of the time, a little hyperactive in a tight parking space (distances jumping around), but overall fine visibility and no real issues with parking.
@@GDM22 Well, i have a Model 3 with USS and would disagree. They are consistent and accurate as long as they pick up something that is big enough and high enough. If it ain't big enough or too low, they are doing nothing. I have very little use for my USS signals since I have my eyes and the camera feeds anyway. The USS can't tell me WHAT is 60cm away from my car. A brick wall? A moving person? A moving car?
I also think a benefit of the real wheel drive is the fact that it has batteries you can charge to 100% without problems. A benefit of the long range which wasn’t mentioned is that is has 17 speakers instead of 9 and a different interior finish.
Thank you for a comprehensive review… and thank you for the sunshine ☀️. I’ve got an M3 on order here in 🇬🇧 which should arrive in a month or so. With the dreadful state of the roads over here I’m very pleased to hear about the improvement in ride quality. I’m transitioning from a BMW 330e so also pleased to hear of improvements in quality. PS I’ll take the 33C … it’s 8C here and yep you guessed it ☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️
Great point about it being hundreds of kilos lighter than many competitors (even ICE ones these days). I found that to be the biggest advantage over something like a Polestar 2. Of course that one used to be FWD too.... I also agree an ESC sport setting would be awesome - I feel like it cuts in way too early for even the slightest loss of grip, which can really interrupt your flow. Re the rear screen - for those of us with little kids, it's actually a negative. My kids are constantly kicking that area, and would almost certainly cause trouble adjusting their own A/C, trying to play videos through the speakers etc.
You must be hammering it because I have driven mine reasonably hard over some very challenging roads and have always been impressed by the amount of grip it can generate. It puts power down better than my 3 series BMW
7:03 you are saying, there are no middle armrest. That's not true, you have to pull down the middle seed. I actually think it's pretty good. Nice video.
I have a 2022 M3LR & love the fact there is no display in front of the driver. The air conditioning points straight at me covering my entire body it’s awesome. Heat in summer is not an issue as I leave it in dog mode or pre cool the car & don’t feel the ventilated seats are necessary, I had them in my previous car & they only cooled my bum. Ride could be improved but I can throw it at any corner & handles really well, as good as my previous Mustang. No stalks would get some getting used to. My wife hates the seats as the head rest is too close to her head so having her hair up is uncomfortable so adjustability would be nice
Nice video, but just wanted to point out that there is an arm rest in the back seat. Idk if you missed that by not looking real close?? Also, everyone has their own wants in a sedan and I would say most people would NOT want a hatch back, especially people in N. America. Again nice video! Cheers!✌️
@chasingcars We had that on the 2023 model here in the UK, a LR RWD specifically for business drivers. That version got 394 miles WLTP range, I can a Highland RWD LR version being up and over the 421 claimed for the AWD.
When the refreshed GR86 came out, I was tempted to buy a new car for the first time. But I sat on that idea for a few months, and eventually the emotional part of me gave way to the rational. It wouldn't be a good daily with my lifestyle. But this refreshed 3 has had me gripped for 8 months.
Standard Tesla quality control, “so much better now” they say 😉 Elon really cares super much about it. The “genius” who went for the useless camera wiper “sensor” against expert advice, and Tesla Vision 🤯😁 I have a Model 3 myself, thankfully one with USS and stalks.
Re: seat side bolsters. My wife is on the shorter side and MUCH prefers the current Model 3 side bolsters. As a shorter person, sports side bolsters as an increasing trend on many other cars, are totally unusable, forcing her shoulders to be impossibly rolled inward. There's a substantial demographic of older persons and shorter persons who veto sports bolsters in cars. Plus they are simply not needed for normal driving.
My wife had a similar issue with aggressive bolsters, not due to being short, but having wide hips. The suede-like seat coverings of an EV6 GT-line are a good solution. They grip really well in normal use without needing aggressive bolsters.
@@chasingcars my bad just saw a bunch of other comments. It's not abundantly clear and plenty of reviewers have missed it so don't beat yourself up! Maybe an overlay on the video? Anyway what a great review - you're my favourite Aussie car reviewer :)
Great review as always Tom! Though I've got to say, the fact that there is no Apple/Android connectivity, the idea that you have to select drive modes through the touch screen (what the hell was R+D thinking??!) and to operate the simplest of functions, i.e. to open the glovebox, is a 17-point step...utterly ridiculous!
I am desperately hoping that the forthcoming Tesla Model 2 will provide me with a car of the size, packaging and quality that I seek. I share your concerns MrBusa9, and frankly, I think I'd be better off just purchasing a BYD Dolphin Premium for $46K AUD driveaway. BYD seem to mimic a lot of Tesla design features, but without the drawbacks, ie: central speedo display, CarPlay/ Android Auto, indicator stalk on RHS, important high use functions not buried several layers deep in the touchscreen. A sunshade screen for the sunroof. I could go on......
Apple/Android auto has been a software crutch for auto manufacturers who still struggle to put together a comprehensive software package. The ecosystem is nice, but Tesla's dedicated apps are without flaw. As a counter point, many vehicles who use apple/android auto have poor Bluetooth implementations in the connectivity to the car's software. Causing drops and stops in connections. The drive selector can be somewhat of a hassle in, for example, a 3-point turn. But taking your hand off the wheel to do a quick swipe on the screen is not a tough learning curve. Many people like to point out the glove box. It is however, as simple as speaking a voice command after pressing the button on the wheel to open it. Tesla's overall software is very easy to learn and intuitive. The interface is simple and fast. It is not a difficult task to find the glove box control. I won't argue its perfect, but these types of habits you learn after driving a Tesla for a while.
I've never driven a car with HUD, but I don't feel it needs it. The speedo is very clear on the display and doesn't take much to see it. I think I'd find a HUD distracting TBH.
@@johnlambert1744 I use to think if I had a car with a HUD I would turn it off. I got a CX5 6 months ago and the HUD is great, so easy to know your speed and the speed limit without having to look away from the road. Never driven a Tesla but I think a HUD would be very beneficial.
@@johnlambert1744 I highly suggest you do a test drive in any car that has a hud fitted… HUD is the least distracting display imho as it display the speed information on the wind screen so you don’t have to move your focus to the side
Sounds like tesla has made some significant advances with this model, Tom. As for the steering, I think the target market for these cars are the offspring of the Volvo drivers of the 80’s. Hence steering feel was about as familiar to them as stopping at Give Way signs.
I’ve been badly bitten by Tesla. December 2021 Model 3 long range….both lower control arms replaced, radiator failed and leaked everywhere. Had to be towed on a flat bed truck. Rear seats could be shaken horizontally and were loose. Sometimes a loud crack in the glass roof would feel like a tree branch had landed on it. Happened on hot days so it seems like there’s an expansion issue between the glass and metal. The seats started to click and move upon normal acceleration and braking. You could feel the seat moving under you. The rattles started in the doors. This was an $83,000 car!! I took it back to the service centre so many times and they couldn’t fix a lot of the issues. So glad to get rid of it. I see that carwow did a drag race with a BYD Seal and the Tesla made a loud thunk from the rear under acceleration. Then it made a loud thunk under braking at the front. I’m never buying another Tesla. Looking forward to an established manufacturer to release a properly engineered car. ie. Kia, VW, Volvo.
That sucks. My 2021 Model 3 has been flawless, also came out of the factory in Shanghai. Luckily from my experience of other Tesla owners (I personally know about 30) they've only had regular maintenance done like wipers and interior filters. Sounds like you just had bad luck, but that still doesn't make it suck any less for you.
Quick share because there is a lot of information in the press at the moment about cost of ownership. I have a my22 rwd m3 with the lfp battery. I have owned it almost 2 years and have travelled over 60000km now. My average energy consumption over that distance is 122Whr/km or 12.2kwhr/100km. If you multiply that by your average energy cost, say 20c/100km then it has cost $2.40/100km. A bit more than the cost of one litre of petrol for every 100km. Of you’re paying supercharger rates at 70c exclusively then $8.50/100 so you would need a petrol car that uses less than 4.5L/100km to match that. And the m3 has around 300hp and a zero to 100 of 6s! Maintenance over 60,000km has been one tyre rotation at $50. Still on the original Michelin ps4 with about 40% left. The m3 is the ultimate urban machine that’s also a blast to drive on weekends.
Yeah, but the dirty secret with Tesla is the insurance. How much does it cost to you? Because when I checked, insurance for Telsa was somewhere between 2 to 3 times more than similarly priced ICE cars.
@@user-hz3eu5in are you based in Australia? Mine is the same as a bmw 330. I had my windscreen replaced and it was $1200 whereas the windscreen in my X3 was $5,500
The only strange thing about the review is the understeer comment about the old car. You definitely don't get much pull from the front motor unless you are on the car pretty hard. Testing has shown the throttle needs to be quite deep to even engage the front motor, unless you've got track mode to over ride it. Typically they feel very neutral on most corners.
Great review. Just a clarification that all Teslas since about 2019 have the FSD computer hardware and its the software running on it that determines its capability. Think of it as like a cray supercomputer running Tetris. They are still working away at the software though.
Good review but the price and the sub-standard Tesla warranty (just 4 years, 80,000km bumper to bumper) is a concern. It is worse than almost all other car competitors. All EV cars are too expensive in 2024, worth wating for a few years. I remember how expensive the laptops were some ~20 years ago. The BEV is a large computer on wheels with just a few moving parts, it will become cheaper, faster and better in next 5-10 years.
Great detailed review. You are one of the very few reviewers to comment on this weird fashion for glass roofs in a hot country like ours. The clip on "solution" of shades is really ad hoc. Good car but I'm going to opt for something with a proper metal roof. Likewise the lack of a speedo and deletion of stalks is counter intuitive.
Great review mate. One of the reasons I went with the LR is because of the 17 speaker sound system, as opposed to the 9 speakers in the SR. I really enjoyed my test drive of the SR though, and look forward to test driving the LR before my car arrives. How long before your review of the LR? 😬
I'm very curious as to how this car is sold in the US as I've learnt (thanks to Doug Demuro) that the brake lights can't be on the boot that goes up and down and instead need to be fixed in position regardless of if the boot is up or down.
Heya! Thank you for a honest yet accurate analysis on this new model. Would you be able to review the new model Y as well ? We are currently due to buy an EV, and are terrified by hearing and seeing the model Y’S firm ride issues.
Hi, Would you clear a thing for me please. Is RWD also has 17 speakers as advertised or 17 are only available in long range model??? Can't see this information anywhere really :(.
Great improvements. Just wish they went more Porsche in the back with the rear light and went with slits instead of making it look more like a Honda with the crab claws. Oof.
Keen to hear your thoughts on the LR model as well! I trust your opinion, so I'm curious as to how that compares to the standard RWD model. Cross shopping this, BMW i4 eDrive35 and a Polestar 2.
Polestar 2 much heavier and more expensve by the time you option it up, but then if you can afford the eDrive35 at nearly $90K on the road, why not? It's not even going to have the range of the Tesla RWD but on the inside it's going to be a better car. I think WLTP is 430km so maybe 360km highway?
Great review. We need the Tesla Model 3 RWD vs BYD Seal Premium comparison video! Tom from Ludicrous Feed did a good review of the these two, I'd love to hear what you think.
Love your reviews! But am I the only one that is asking if you have private filming permits with organised roadblocks when you film? Haha parking in the middle of a bend, over double sold lines and presenting in front of it? Or was this guerrilla style - performing stunts to leap into your car when someone comes around the corner?
As subscribers know, I am not easily pleased and have been critical of Tesla products where they need improvement. Very pleased to see the brand acting on feedback.
@chasingcars Great review as usual. I have a pre-facelift car and am thinking of upgrading after I test drove an update model last week. What did you think about the lack of stalks and having to change from park to drive on the touch screen?
P.S. I only discovered the seats are ventilated at the end of the test drive and that probably won me over.
@@Dan4096I been driving new model 3 for a month. The change gear at the screen is fast and smooth. Plus you don't really need change gear until you are doing side or reserve parking. The signal button is a bit tricky, on norma road or big roundabout no problem, small roundabout need time to get it. If you are slow to adapt just spend some money to get sexy buttons and make 2 of them permanent signal buttons. This car is so good that if you decided not to get it because of signal button, you will miss out a very good car.
@@wensiangfong I don't care about the signal buttons and I'm quick to adapt. I am a fan of reverse parking but I don't think the swipe to drive will put me off much if I'm sitting in air conditioned seats. 😀
You should edit this video with the rear cupholder info and access to the trunk. It's misleading currently and pretty bad considering there are many other reviews already out showing these things.
@@ryangerrity2851 say it's misleading is inaccurate
easily the best Aussie auto journalist. The only channel, I remain subscribed to.
Thank you!
I see him around. I don’t know if he describes himself as a journalist but he is doing motoring journalist style work. I don’t gatekeep the profession. Maybe he would call himself an EV content creator.
I was planning on buying a new model 3 but unfortunately I found the turn signal buttons on the steering wheel so annoying to use that it became a deal breaker for me. There are roundabouts everywhere here in Norway, and you have to first blink into one, and then out again when exiting. I've been using a new model S for several months, but could never get used to those turn signal buttons. They work ok in intersections and when going more or less straight, but it's extremely frustrating to use in roundabouts when you have to rotate the wheel a lot, and you have no idea where the buttons end up. It's simply impossible to engage the turn signal in a tight roundabout without looking down at the steering wheel first, and taking your eyes off the road in a critical situation with cars all around you to look down at the wheel is the last thing you want to do.
I also find that the buttons are not always responsive. Sometimes it doesn't engage, so you have to press again, or you end up pressing the wrong one. It's a stupid cost cutting measure, at the expense of usability and safety. Norwegian driving schools have even banned the new model 3 because they claim it causes their students to flunk their test in roundabouts...
I love so many of the other upgrades, but I just can't have a car that makes me frustrated and annoyed every time I drive it. It was a mistake to remove the stalks, at least for the EU marked.
It probably works very well in the US and other places with few roundabouts though.
You can get after market stalks. Works just fine.
Doesn't work well in US either. Did a test drive and encountered so many situations where i had to look down to see where the button is. And it doesnt click sometimes as you said. But i have to try it regardless
Thought my wife would immediately hate the lack of stalks. Complete opposite. She found it intuitive and easy to use from the first minute. Model 3 LR to be ordered.
Yep, I expected to despise it and it was a total anticlimax and absolutely fine (for me). Not saying everyone will have my experience or have to agree with me.
Yeah after like 2 drives I already prefer it.
@@SirDragonClaw yeah totally, when I am on a roundabout and need to indicate, I find the indicator buttons being upside down and on the wrong side of the wheel a real advantage.
@@jamie-ck6js
Go and buy that Camry gramps. 👍🏻
@@M4rt_FX exactly, it is nice being able to afford a car that comes with stalks, real buttons for common controls, a speed reading that is actually in front of you, oh and parking sensors. Maybe you will be able to get a car with those features one day.
It does have a center arm rest the middle headrest is incorporated in it.
As soon as Highland performance comes out in United States I'm buying it!!! Stealth Grey dark interior. Super excited. First EV
Great video 😎👍🏻
Long term M3 owner here. Think you'll love it. It's a rocket on wheels
@@booooooooooooooooooooooo I'm glad you said that , it's my first EV I am coming from a Toyota Corolla '15 no problems !!! It's a Toyota. I'm a little nervous just because I don't know what to expect.
Have you had any major issues with your M3 ? Everyone I talk to love their Teslas even with small issues with some owners. When I went on test drive it was so fun !! So planted to the pavement, acceleration was unworldly, comfortable to drive, the tech and I love the minimalism.
Aaron
It’s out now you can order one
I wouldn't hold my breath on them adding a performance model for the model 3. I think they are positioning it in such a way that the S is the performance model. Wouldn't be surprised to see them do the same thing with the Model Y refresh.
@@PaulMcClellandit got leaked by an employee, there will be a performance model by the end of March
I'm eagerly awaiting my M3 delivery and am very glad to see the positive reviews it's receiving. This is my first EV and I love the synergy between intuive tech and performance.
For a split second I was confused when I read M3 as I thought you meant bmw m3 😂
You can pull the rear centre headrest down to reveal the armrest and cup holders @chasingcars
Oh, thanks. I didn’t happen upon that. Does that mean things from the boot can slide through?
Still a 60/40 split to the boot. Center seat only reveals the armrest/cupholders
It’s the armrest
@@chasingcars No, there is no opening or hatch behind the arm rest. (in my European 2024 Model 3)
Another point.
I own a Mode 3 Performance and an X Plaid. The frunk in the M3 is more usable because it isnt carpeted, you can stuff there anything from dirty equipment to a take away food, easier to clean if something spills
I was terrified that a car would come around that curve! Great review! 👍👍
Fold down the middle seat in the back row to get an armrest with cup holders. 😅
Great review as always, Tom!
We've had our standard Model Y since September 2022 and frequently road trip from Sydney to Sunshine Coast and had 2 takeouts:
1. Jeez I want those ventilated seats!
2. Range has never been an issue like we thought it would be before buying
I am pretty sure there is a rear center armrest. The entire section with the headrest folds down. Also, I never would have classified the pre-refresh seat material as shiny or plasticy. It looks exactly the same to me aside from the perforations and stitching alterations.
You are correct. He just needed to pull down the center armrest.
just about to say that!
The middle rear seat back folds down and has the arm-rests in it. Good informative review. Thank you.
Thank you.
The FSD computer isn't an option, it's standard. They all have the hardware capable of doing it, i.e. they all have the option to buy FSD after purchase (once it's released in Australia).
If you have to buy it, then it isn't standard...
@@Appox7 the hardware is standard, as in it's capable of running the software (older models are not necessarily, as they have weaker computers). obviously the software is not standard.
@@Appox7learn how to read he said "fsd computer"
FSD 🤣 massive scam
lol..if you dont pay for it. It isn't considered standard. In car term terminology, comes standards means you can use it without having to pay to access it..@@amesoeurs
The next review I'd like to hear about how you get along with no stalks on busy city streets, roundabouts, carparks, etc. It looked like most of the driving was on a closed road with no lane changes and no other cars around. No stalks is arguably the most controversial change, yet it wasn't even mentioned.
What you see in the video doesn't make up all of the testing and preparation that goes into a review like this. Did well over 200km in Sydney in city streets and as I have said to other commenters, I didn't have an issue with the buttons for indicators.
I've found the whole non-ventilated seats thing hugely overblown. I've been through 3 summers with a Model 3 (white interior) and Model Y (black interior) now and have been perfectly fine even on the hottest days. The aircon works well, and the ability to precondition the cabin 5 mins before you hop in is a blessing.
Overblown, nice pun! Obviously you’re entitled to your view but I haven’t found this interior comfortable temperature wise in the past. And I suppose Tesla received similar feedback often enough to make the change.
The seats definitely help, but is not a big issue if you always precondition your car.
Have to agree, no issue for me either.
I agree with you as well - I even use seat heating in Summer as it helps with my lower back that often gets sore. I've never felt the need for cooled seats, and I live in Qld!
It's 100% a personal preference(or how hot you run..)
Even if you froze the seats before I get into the model 3 my back will be sweaty by the end of a 30min trip. My wife uses the heated seats all the time, I couldn't imagine anything worse. If we had the new M3 I'd have it on cool and she will have it one heat, all year round.
I have the new M3 LR highland, it's amazing and handles like a go kart. Fast, quiet and very comfortable. I previously had a Mercedes cla45 AMG and this is so much better on all levels. Congratulations Tesla on producing such a fantastic car!
One correction Tom, there is a rear middle armrest and cup holders, just have to pull the middle headrest down.
Amazing that you didn’t draw attention to the disappearance of the stalks (unless I missed that part, I did get distracted half way through).
I actually had to go back and re-record commentary on it because for *me* it was such a non-issue, and I did a lot of mileage in this car. It didn’t affect me in the slightest. But a lot of people don’t like it and that’s a fine view to have.
@@chasingcars the model 3 has been a daily drive for me for 4 years so the issues are more evident.
It is less about the indicator but more about the dodgy windscreen wipers needing to be manually corrected, switching between forward/reverse when parking etc, engaging and disengaging cruise and autopilot.
I suspect I would need to look away from the road more.
@@chasingcars It would have been better if you included yourself testing it around small roundabouts, which is the main concern many people have and they'd love to see it in action. To not include/test such a big change in the refresh seems a bit strange to me.
@@saintzaIn Australia or at least NSW you don't have to indicate out of small roundabouts unless practical to do so. ie it can be just as difficult to do with stalks because the exits are so close together. I assume this only refers to the left hand indicator when going straight ahead...
There is a pull-down centre arm rest
No mention of stalkless setup?
How did you find the lack of ultrasonic sensors? Was parking particularly difficult with the lack of this at the front?
Yeah it is a downgrade USS work really well, they are very consistent and accurate, many reviewers have tested including Ludicrous Feed in Australia, RSEV in the UK.
They released an update during the holidays which improved it significantly. Still probably not as accurate as the sensors, but getting there.
I agree it is a downgrade and having USS would be better - but I didn't bump into anything, so I guess that is a start! I found the Vision readings accurate most of the time, a little hyperactive in a tight parking space (distances jumping around), but overall fine visibility and no real issues with parking.
@@chasingcars Did you use the new AI point cloud parking assist or the distance based older system from last year?
@@GDM22 Well, i have a Model 3 with USS and would disagree.
They are consistent and accurate as long as they pick up something that is big enough and high enough. If it ain't big enough or too low, they are doing nothing.
I have very little use for my USS signals since I have my eyes and the camera feeds anyway. The USS can't tell me WHAT is 60cm away from my car. A brick wall? A moving person? A moving car?
I actually use the frunk, wish the refresh included a powered frunk. Would also add to the premium feel.
4:40 thanks for such attention and sharing an important details!
There is a center armrest. The whole middle seat folds down. Now it's longer and the cupholders aren't in an annoying position. 7:55
Thanks so much for the mention Tom !! Absolutely love your content. Hopefully meet u at an event some day !
That would be great!
There is an armrest in the back. It folds from the headrest
I also think a benefit of the real wheel drive is the fact that it has batteries you can charge to 100% without problems.
A benefit of the long range which wasn’t mentioned is that is has 17 speakers instead of 9 and a different interior finish.
wow! the exterior is beautiful and the interior is very tastefull
Great review thanks Tom. I like the new colour coading in the stats tables, helps to quickly see how each stat ranks
Thanks, we’ll keep using it.
I just found this channel. Perhaps the best review of the new Model 3 I've watched. Well done!
Another brilliant, detailed, practical review. I also like that you call the seats vinyl and not “vegan leather.”
Thank you for a comprehensive review… and thank you for the sunshine ☀️. I’ve got an M3 on order here in 🇬🇧 which should arrive in a month or so. With the dreadful state of the roads over here I’m very pleased to hear about the improvement in ride quality. I’m transitioning from a BMW 330e so also pleased to hear of improvements in quality. PS I’ll take the 33C … it’s 8C here and yep you guessed it ☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️
Sounds miserable! At least your new car is on the way.
Great point about it being hundreds of kilos lighter than many competitors (even ICE ones these days). I found that to be the biggest advantage over something like a Polestar 2. Of course that one used to be FWD too....
I also agree an ESC sport setting would be awesome - I feel like it cuts in way too early for even the slightest loss of grip, which can really interrupt your flow.
Re the rear screen - for those of us with little kids, it's actually a negative. My kids are constantly kicking that area, and would almost certainly cause trouble adjusting their own A/C, trying to play videos through the speakers etc.
You can lock the back screen and prevent them from using it anyways
I tried the RWD in dyno mode. It's honestly scary. So much instant torque and always super tail happy
You must be hammering it because I have driven mine reasonably hard over some very challenging roads and have always been impressed by the amount of grip it can generate. It puts power down better than my 3 series BMW
7:03 you are saying, there are no middle armrest. That's not true, you have to pull down the middle seed. I actually think it's pretty good. Nice video.
I have a 2022 M3LR & love the fact there is no display in front of the driver. The air conditioning points straight at me covering my entire body it’s awesome. Heat in summer is not an issue as I leave it in dog mode or pre cool the car & don’t feel the ventilated seats are necessary, I had them in my previous car & they only cooled my bum. Ride could be improved but I can throw it at any corner & handles really well, as good as my previous Mustang. No stalks would get some getting used to. My wife hates the seats as the head rest is too close to her head so having her hair up is uncomfortable so adjustability would be nice
Nice video, but just wanted to point out that there is an arm rest in the back seat. Idk if you missed that by not looking real close?? Also, everyone has their own wants in a sedan and I would say most people would NOT want a hatch back, especially people in N. America. Again nice video! Cheers!✌️
Great review as always. Looking forward to the base m3 getting a battery upgrade, it will be interesting to see its range then.
Yeah. Decent range already but would love a long range RWD spec. Could be the best of both worlds.
N 17 speakers 😂
The base model 3 will not get a battery upgrade.
@chasingcars We had that on the 2023 model here in the UK, a LR RWD specifically for business drivers. That version got 394 miles WLTP range, I can a Highland RWD LR version being up and over the 421 claimed for the AWD.
Nice review but what are your thoughts on the non indicator stalk ??. Also any news on the performance model ?
Happy new year to you
Happy new year Spiro. I’ve heard rumblings that the Performance has either gone into production or will do soon, so stand by for an announcement.
When the refreshed GR86 came out, I was tempted to buy a new car for the first time. But I sat on that idea for a few months, and eventually the emotional part of me gave way to the rational. It wouldn't be a good daily with my lifestyle. But this refreshed 3 has had me gripped for 8 months.
Great review Tom. Really liking your efficiency testing and comparison across cars.
Thanks! More to come!
You missed the centre arm rest in the rear seats??😮
That point has now been made by several comments (which I’ve responded to) so probably no need to flog the point further.
A very great and detailed review! just one wrong piece of info, there is, in fact, a center armrest in the second row haha
Noted, thank you.
The panel gap from the rear trunk to the bumper looks massive..
Was just happy this car didn’t have squeaks, rattles and thuds like a Model Y (also out of Shanghai) I tested last year.
Standard Tesla quality control, “so much better now” they say 😉 Elon really cares super much about it.
The “genius” who went for the useless camera wiper “sensor” against expert advice, and Tesla Vision 🤯😁 I have a Model 3 myself, thankfully one with USS and stalks.
Re: seat side bolsters. My wife is on the shorter side and MUCH prefers the current Model 3 side bolsters. As a shorter person, sports side bolsters as an increasing trend on many other cars, are totally unusable, forcing her shoulders to be impossibly rolled inward. There's a substantial demographic of older persons and shorter persons who veto sports bolsters in cars. Plus they are simply not needed for normal driving.
Thank you for pointing that out. My observations are ultimately limited to myself and what any of my colleagues or passengers tell me.
My wife had a similar issue with aggressive bolsters, not due to being short, but having wide hips.
The suede-like seat coverings of an EV6 GT-line are a good solution. They grip really well in normal use without needing aggressive bolsters.
Thanks for some of the most well considered reviews available.
Our pleasure
Err.. there is a rear center armrest. Hope can fix that with some overlay message
You missed the armrest in the back seat ;)
When you shut the frunk push on the badge as the catch is in centre of aluminium bonnet.
Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind.
Hey Tom - love the review. Do note there is a centre armrest! You just have to pull it down from the middle headrest!
Yes. That was a silly mistake by me!
@@chasingcars my bad just saw a bunch of other comments. It's not abundantly clear and plenty of reviewers have missed it so don't beat yourself up! Maybe an overlay on the video?
Anyway what a great review - you're my favourite Aussie car reviewer :)
Yes, there IS a rear-seat centre arm rest...
Comment regarding no centre arm rest in the back. The middle back pulls down to give you that along with 2 cup holders.
Great review as always Tom! Though I've got to say, the fact that there is no Apple/Android connectivity, the idea that you have to select drive modes through the touch screen (what the hell was R+D thinking??!) and to operate the simplest of functions, i.e. to open the glovebox, is a 17-point step...utterly ridiculous!
I am desperately hoping that the forthcoming Tesla Model 2 will provide me with a car of the size, packaging and quality that I seek.
I share your concerns MrBusa9, and frankly, I think I'd be better off just purchasing a BYD Dolphin Premium for $46K AUD driveaway.
BYD seem to mimic a lot of Tesla design features, but without the drawbacks, ie: central speedo display, CarPlay/ Android Auto, indicator stalk on RHS, important high use functions not buried several layers deep in the touchscreen. A sunshade screen for the sunroof. I could go on......
Glovebox isn't a problem for me. Voice command works fine.
Please explain “17 point step”? On my M3 it’s 2 steps to open the glovebox whilst driving. Or a voice control will do it too.
Ok, I was being a little sarcastic, but the issue remains. Why make such a simple action (to open a glovebox) more complex?@@philgower292
Apple/Android auto has been a software crutch for auto manufacturers who still struggle to put together a comprehensive software package. The ecosystem is nice, but Tesla's dedicated apps are without flaw. As a counter point, many vehicles who use apple/android auto have poor Bluetooth implementations in the connectivity to the car's software. Causing drops and stops in connections.
The drive selector can be somewhat of a hassle in, for example, a 3-point turn. But taking your hand off the wheel to do a quick swipe on the screen is not a tough learning curve.
Many people like to point out the glove box. It is however, as simple as speaking a voice command after pressing the button on the wheel to open it. Tesla's overall software is very easy to learn and intuitive. The interface is simple and fast. It is not a difficult task to find the glove box control.
I won't argue its perfect, but these types of habits you learn after driving a Tesla for a while.
Why don’t they have a head up display for the speed.
One bit of feedback that wasn’t addressed!
I've never driven a car with HUD, but I don't feel it needs it. The speedo is very clear on the display and doesn't take much to see it. I think I'd find a HUD distracting TBH.
@@johnlambert1744 I use to think if I had a car with a HUD I would turn it off. I got a CX5 6 months ago and the HUD is great, so easy to know your speed and the speed limit without having to look away from the road. Never driven a Tesla but I think a HUD would be very beneficial.
I have an aftermarket HUD fitted to my current Model 3. I wouldn’t be without it. Not having to look inwards to check your speed is a bonus.
@@johnlambert1744 I highly suggest you do a test drive in any car that has a hud fitted… HUD is the least distracting display imho as it display the speed information on the wind screen so you don’t have to move your focus to the side
Sounds like tesla has made some significant advances with this model, Tom. As for the steering, I think the target market for these cars are the offspring of the Volvo drivers of the 80’s. Hence steering feel was about as familiar to them as stopping at Give Way signs.
lol
I’ve been badly bitten by Tesla. December 2021 Model 3 long range….both lower control arms replaced, radiator failed and leaked everywhere. Had to be towed on a flat bed truck. Rear seats could be shaken horizontally and were loose. Sometimes a loud crack in the glass roof would feel like a tree branch had landed on it. Happened on hot days so it seems like there’s an expansion issue between the glass and metal. The seats started to click and move upon normal acceleration and braking. You could feel the seat moving under you. The rattles started in the doors. This was an $83,000 car!! I took it back to the service centre so many times and they couldn’t fix a lot of the issues.
So glad to get rid of it.
I see that carwow did a drag race with a BYD Seal and the Tesla made a loud thunk from the rear under acceleration. Then it made a loud thunk under braking at the front.
I’m never buying another Tesla.
Looking forward to an established manufacturer to release a properly engineered car. ie. Kia, VW, Volvo.
Jeez. Well, as I said, the Model 3 was indeed rough around the edges (or perhaps more than the edges in the case of your vehicle).
Both cars did a loud thunk
@@chasingcarsYep, it was a disaster. Looking forward to the ID2 GTI. Hopefully it’s better built. Looks amazing!
That sucks. My 2021 Model 3 has been flawless, also came out of the factory in Shanghai. Luckily from my experience of other Tesla owners (I personally know about 30) they've only had regular maintenance done like wipers and interior filters. Sounds like you just had bad luck, but that still doesn't make it suck any less for you.
@@nielsvandenkieboom5034Yeah it was stressful. Such a pity since the major electronic components were flawless.
It does have arm rest for rear seat.
It's a weird setup, you fold down the centre section of the rear seat.
Is it me or does anyone else prefer the normal /natural background noise during commentary?
Quick share because there is a lot of information in the press at the moment about cost of ownership. I have a my22 rwd m3 with the lfp battery. I have owned it almost 2 years and have travelled over 60000km now. My average energy consumption over that distance is 122Whr/km or 12.2kwhr/100km. If you multiply that by your average energy cost, say 20c/100km then it has cost $2.40/100km. A bit more than the cost of one litre of petrol for every 100km. Of you’re paying supercharger rates at 70c exclusively then $8.50/100 so you would need a petrol car that uses less than 4.5L/100km to match that. And the m3 has around 300hp and a zero to 100 of 6s! Maintenance over 60,000km has been one tyre rotation at $50. Still on the original Michelin ps4 with about 40% left. The m3 is the ultimate urban machine that’s also a blast to drive on weekends.
Yeah, but the dirty secret with Tesla is the insurance. How much does it cost to you? Because when I checked, insurance for Telsa was somewhere between 2 to 3 times more than similarly priced ICE cars.
@@user-hz3eu5in are you based in Australia? Mine is the same as a bmw 330. I had my windscreen replaced and it was $1200 whereas the windscreen in my X3 was $5,500
The only strange thing about the review is the understeer comment about the old car. You definitely don't get much pull from the front motor unless you are on the car pretty hard. Testing has shown the throttle needs to be quite deep to even engage the front motor, unless you've got track mode to over ride it. Typically they feel very neutral on most corners.
For those who have used it, is the ground clearance an issue? Especially going in and out of basement garages in apartments?
I’d love to see this fella in my 75 series. It would be hilarious
Great review. Just a clarification that all Teslas since about 2019 have the FSD computer hardware and its the software running on it that determines its capability. Think of it as like a cray supercomputer running Tetris. They are still working away at the software though.
hope you do the long range too, and do a bit of a range test too
I have the roof sunscreen for my Y in California and I love it.
After 60,000 km in mine I have come to appreciate the steering
I've watched several build quality videos done by people who are qualified to do them..... I hope they finally got it right.
Great rundown. I agree 💯 about the Highland!
there is a center armrest you have to pull the headrest down
Good review but the price and the sub-standard Tesla warranty (just 4 years, 80,000km bumper to bumper) is a concern. It is worse than almost all other car competitors. All EV cars are too expensive in 2024, worth wating for a few years. I remember how expensive the laptops were some ~20 years ago. The BEV is a large computer on wheels with just a few moving parts, it will become cheaper, faster and better in next 5-10 years.
Hopefully I was perfectly clear in pointing out in the video that, as you say, the vehicle warranty falls well short of the competition
the battery/drivetrain warranty is significantly longer - that was the main consideration when I was buying
Why didnt you fold the arm rest down in the back seat? You said one doesnt exist.. but it does
Enjoyed the details
Great detailed review. You are one of the very few reviewers to comment on this weird fashion for glass roofs in a hot country like ours. The clip on "solution" of shades is really ad hoc. Good car but I'm going to opt for something with a proper metal roof. Likewise the lack of a speedo and deletion of stalks is counter intuitive.
'Frunk' should be a 'froot'
Quite right.
I really don’t see the problem with “bonnet”, lol :)
Great review mate. One of the reasons I went with the LR is because of the 17 speaker sound system, as opposed to the 9 speakers in the SR.
I really enjoyed my test drive of the SR though, and look forward to test driving the LR before my car arrives. How long before your review of the LR? 😬
Does the boot closing have a safety stop feature? ie can I interupt the close because forgot to add another shopping bag.
How did you adapt to the removal of stalks? That seems like a pain in the butt.
What about phantom braking? So many accidents being caused by phantom braking
How do you sit in the middle of the road?
I just need to know the driving experience and how the impact on driving experience without the gear shiftef
Love it!
Please mention, the grey fabric trim is suede in the LR version.
there is a center armrest, you just have to pull it all together.
I'm very curious as to how this car is sold in the US as I've learnt (thanks to Doug Demuro) that the brake lights can't be on the boot that goes up and down and instead need to be fixed in position regardless of if the boot is up or down.
I was waiting for the 18 wheeler to come smoking around the corner...... :)
Heya! Thank you for a honest yet accurate analysis on this new model. Would you be able to review the new model Y as well ? We are currently due to buy an EV, and are terrified by hearing and seeing the model Y’S firm ride issues.
Love the bird poo option on the fender @ 1:54
The birds are aggressive around these parts... we do what we can
Ok. Any opinions on the best exterior colour?
ı am for Stealth Grey ! but this color Deep Blue Metallic seems better and half price of stealth . confused😕
Hi,
Would you clear a thing for me please. Is RWD also has 17 speakers as advertised or 17 are only available in long range model??? Can't see this information anywhere really :(.
how are you able to record on what looks like a public road? no cars?
What’s your opinion on the lack of front sensors for parking. Seems to be pretty hit and miss across the reviews I’ve seen.
which is better, vastly improved or considerably improved?
Was the stereo any good?
Yeah! It was! Should have said so.
I'm wondering if it's as good as the MY? That seriously has the best stock system I've ever heard!
Does this confirm the rwd doesn’t have a rear armrest? Seems to here in the UK
In America we would put a ceramic ir tint on the glass to reduce heat… is this allowed in Australia?
Great improvements. Just wish they went more Porsche in the back with the rear light and went with slits instead of making it look more like a Honda with the crab claws. Oof.
Could you please explain why in Australia people don’t buy a model three to use with people in the back?
Keen to hear your thoughts on the LR model as well! I trust your opinion, so I'm curious as to how that compares to the standard RWD model. Cross shopping this, BMW i4 eDrive35 and a Polestar 2.
Thank you. I’ll see if I can get one out of Tesla or a viewer.
Polestar 2 much heavier and more expensve by the time you option it up, but then if you can afford the eDrive35 at nearly $90K on the road, why not? It's not even going to have the range of the Tesla RWD but on the inside it's going to be a better car. I think WLTP is 430km so maybe 360km highway?
@@mondotv4216 Better car? LOL no. Less range and overpriced.
BMW i4 is cramped IMO as is the Polestar both being on ICE chassis.
If you want your car clean of dust , m3 is the way to go, so easy to vacuum and clean the car without those physical button n gear
Great review. We need the Tesla Model 3 RWD vs BYD Seal Premium comparison video!
Tom from Ludicrous Feed did a good review of the these two, I'd love to hear what you think.
I thought premium connectivity was 10 bucks per year, not month: 4:20
Love your reviews! But am I the only one that is asking if you have private filming permits with organised roadblocks when you film? Haha parking in the middle of a bend, over double sold lines and presenting in front of it? Or was this guerrilla style - performing stunts to leap into your car when someone comes around the corner?
It’s a private road.
@@chasingcars Haha - yes private roads definitely make filming a lot easier - and less stressful!