Wow! This Is A Serious Improvement (Tesla Model 3 2024 Review)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 มิ.ย. 2024
- Detailed review and test of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 in RWD trim, including real-world range test, handling, ride quality, interior, price and more.
The Tesla Model 3 was impressive but rough around the edges when it first launched in Australia and around the world. Now, for the Model 3’s midlife “Highland” upgrade, Tesla has targeted a bunch of annoying faults and fixed them. Quality is better, the ride quality is substantially improved, you get cooled seats and the software is better than ever.
The 2024 Model 3 still isn’t perfect but this is what we like to see: attention to detail and a commitment to addressing genuine problems.
As for the buttons on the steering wheel…I didn’t hate them.
The Model 3 competes directly with the BYD Seal, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Polestar 2, BMW i4 and more.
Time codes:
0:00 - Intro
1:15 - Exterior changes
1:30 - Point of the changes
2:10 - Quality and materials
2:40 - New cooled seats
3:25 - No more wood
3:55 - Cabin tech
4:30 - Storage
4:42 - Driving position
5:05 - Rear screen
5:55 - Back seats
6:18 - Glass roof
7:07 - Rear-end styling
7:28 - 594L boot space
8:07 - 88L frunk
8:33 - Efficiency and range
9:22 - Long Range test coming soon
9:45 - Servicing and warranty
10:09 - Driving the 2024 Model 3
10:50 - Improved ride quality
12:30 - RWD advantages
13:35 - Steering feel
14:13 - Conservative dynamics
14:43 - Performance test
15:16 - Safety technology
15:50 - FSD equipped on this car
16:16 - Expert verdict
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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
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.
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.
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)
Fold down the middle seat in the back row to get an armrest with cup holders. 😅
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. 👍🏻
@@54FLEX45 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.
I was terrified that a car would come around that curve! Great review! 👍👍
Great review Tom. Really liking your efficiency testing and comparison across cars.
Thanks! More to come!
I just found this channel. Perhaps the best review of the new Model 3 I've watched. Well done!
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'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 😂
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
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
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.
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.
The middle rear seat back folds down and has the arm-rests in it. Good informative review. Thank you.
Thank you.
One correction Tom, there is a rear middle armrest and cup holders, just have to pull the middle headrest down.
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!
Does the boot closing have a safety stop feature? ie can I interupt the close because forgot to add another shopping bag.
Please mention, the grey fabric trim is suede in the LR version.
How did you adapt to the removal of stalks? That seems like a pain in the butt.
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.
Great rundown. I agree 💯 about the Highland!
For those who have used it, is the ground clearance an issue? Especially going in and out of basement garages in apartments?
Err.. there is a rear center armrest. Hope can fix that with some overlay message
Enjoyed the details
I just need to know the driving experience and how the impact on driving experience without the gear shiftef
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 :(.
There is an armrest in the back. It folds from the headrest
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
Another brilliant, detailed, practical review. I also like that you call the seats vinyl and not “vegan leather.”
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? 😬
No mention of stalkless setup?
4:40 thanks for such attention and sharing an important details!
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.
Does this confirm the rwd doesn’t have a rear armrest? Seems to here in the UK
how are you able to record on what looks like a public road? no cars?
Thanks for some of the most well considered reviews available.
Our pleasure
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
I have the roof sunscreen for my Y in California and I love it.
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.
How do you sit in the middle of the road?
hope you do the long range too, and do a bit of a range test too
In America we would put a ceramic ir tint on the glass to reduce heat… is this allowed in Australia?
You missed the armrest in the back seat ;)
wow! the exterior is beautiful and the interior is very tastefull
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.
Comment regarding no centre arm rest in the back. The middle back pulls down to give you that along with 2 cup holders.
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
there is a center armrest you have to pull the headrest down
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.
What about phantom braking? So many accidents being caused by phantom braking
Could you please explain why in Australia people don’t buy a model three to use with people in the back?
Tesla has made great EV's for years, they just needed to get on top of the ride quality and tidy up a few loose ends. Looks like they've done it. Still unsure about the lack of stalks, but I'm so happy to see how well the new Model 3 is reviewing. I'm also really happy to see the horrible wood grain look gone with the black interior.
Love it!
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.
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.
I actually use the frunk, wish the refresh included a powered frunk. Would also add to the premium feel.
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!
Yes, there IS a rear-seat centre arm rest...
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?
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.
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
there is a center armrest, you just have to pull it all together.
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...
@@joshuatuttleby8489 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.
@@joshuatuttleby8489learn 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
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 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.
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!✌️
Thanks so much for the mention Tom !! Absolutely love your content. Hopefully meet u at an event some day !
That would be great!
I thought premium connectivity was 10 bucks per year, not month: 4:20
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
Can the rear seats fold down to open up the luggage space?
Yep
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.
Back seat has a rear rest arm. Must pull all the back middle arm.
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😕
which is better, vastly improved or considerably improved?
How about Tesla Vision Tom? Any issues with the accuracy and variance compared to USS?
Good point. The distance tracking was pretty hyperactive when reversing into my tight parking space at home. Didn’t know if it was 70 or 17cm away so I just judged off the camera. USS would probably be superior as would a true 360 degree camera.
I don't think he tested, parking is only something most people do every day.
If you'd like a pretty decent review of the new High-Fidelity park assist, which uses Tesla Vision, I'd suggest checking out RSEV channel. They have a pretty good video on it, however, it is in the previous Model 3 and not this new refreshed one, but this new one should have the same software available.
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.
Good vid
I’d love to see this fella in my 75 series. It would be hilarious
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.
Isn't it called a front boot?
Love the bird poo option on the fender @ 1:54
The birds are aggressive around these parts... we do what we can
Do you think we can use this car a family car with one 3 year old? I love the look and driving of model 3 compared to model y
Yes, I think that would work OK if you have good mobility. Some people prefer to deal with child seats in SUVs because the car is raised.
Well I'm 65 and my wife is too and we cart our two younger grandchildren (youngest is still 3) around in the 2022 RWD - rear doors open fairly wide compared to say a Polestar 2 (which I wouldn't recommend as a family car). I am still physically fit though but he pretty much climbs in his own seat at 3 anyway - occasionally I might have to lift him out when he falls asleep and that might be beyond my wife, even if it was an SUV. It has a very spacious boot, but obviously the opening isn't as big as an SUV. Still no problem fitting a folded stroller in there. It depends if you prefer a sedan over an SUV. If you want more space there's the Model Y, and the BYD Atto 3 (which actually doesn't have a load more space but it's a little easier to pack things in.)
I can't comment on personal experience, but from many reviews I've seen, I'd say it is perfectly doable for a single child, and it really then comes down to how much room you need for cargo. Keep in mind needing to fit a stroller and other items in the trunk, as well as frunk, and the differences in space in the rear for additional passengers with a car seat in place. Also, keep in mind that the roofline will be lower and as such a Model 3 will require you to squat down a bit further to put your child into their seat and take them out. This in particular can carry a bit more priority, especially in scenarios where for example it might be raining, or you are unable to park and need to pull up to the side of the street and then exit.
It would be useful for UK viewers of you gave miles and km info.
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.
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.
You can stop in the middle of the road in Australia? haha
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.
didn't talk about sound system
Can you turn off the regen breaking ? Or use 2 pedal?
No you can't.
@@chasingcars makes me car sick. Was excited about Tesla. :(
After 60,000 km in mine I have come to appreciate the steering
It does have a back center arm rest
Yes, there's a arm rest in the rear.
I was waiting for the 18 wheeler to come smoking around the corner...... :)
I wonder if telsa could link the dashboard ambient lighting to the sat nav current limit. As you exceed the limit the ambient lighting could turn red.
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!
It does have arm rest for rear seat.
It's a weird setup, you fold down the centre section of the rear seat.
I've watched several build quality videos done by people who are qualified to do them..... I hope they finally got it right.
Screen for second row passenger? I can’t think of a use case for me. 😅 maybe this car is not for me. If I had to put someone to second row often, I’d prefer a model Y tbh.