The Tesla Model Y SUV and the Model 3 saloon ended 2026 as the UK’s two most popular electric cars, and both have been comprehensively updated in recent months.
The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is the latest addition to the technology manufacturer’s arsenal, and it aims to make the popular EV more accessible than ever.
Originally planned to be called the Model 3 Standard, the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is the popular electric saloon’s new entry point.
It sits below a refreshed, uncatchy line-up which also includes the Premium Long-Range Rear-Wheel Drive, Premium Long-Range All-wheel Drive, and the range-topping Performance All-wheel Drive variants.
At £37,990 (€43,900/$51,900), it’s £2000 (€2,300/$2,700) cheaper than the previous entry-level Model 3 and fiercely undercuts most of its rivals. Nothing has changed visually on the outside, but Tesla has made several adjustments to performance, range and equipment to reduce cost.
This new variant offers 534 km of range, slightly down from the 554 km (332 miles of range, slightly down from the 344 miles) of the previous entry-level car.
Tesla doesn’t quote power figures outside of its performance models, but this Model 3 gets around 283bhp. That means a 0-97km/h (60mph) time of 6.2 seconds, compared to 5.8 seconds previously. Top speed also drops from 201km/h (125mph) to 177km/h (110mph).
Tesla says the power drop allows this variant to sit in a lower insurance group than other versions, in turn reducing overall running costs. In use, it still feels brisk and is more than enough power for daily use, with Tesla’s typical punchy powertrain delivering smooth, progressive acceleration.
Also among the changes are fully passive shock absorbers, while higher trims get a frequency-dependent set-up. Ride comfort has long been a sticking point for the Model 3, and while it’s still below par compared to sophisticated (and far more expensive) rivals like the Mercedes CLA, it’s mostly comfortable and well-damped.
That said, this passive setup is noticeably firmer and fidgetier than the rest of the range, and our test car’s 18in wheels are also the only available option. At higher speeds, it can struggle to keep up with constant, changing road undulations on more scarred roads, but ride quality is still considerably improved compared to Model 3s of the past.
Inside, a blend of cloth and vegan leather replaces the all-leather seats seen on more expensive variants. The fact that they are still supportive and comfortable helps to mitigate the revised suspension’s weaknesses.
Thanks to its rear-wheel set-up, the Model 3 is still enjoyable in the corners, with well-balanced handling and quick, sensitive steering typical of the electric car’s line-up – though a BMW i4 is still the better choice for sports car-esque dynamics.
Despite its reduced weight and less-powerful motor, this isn’t the most efficient Model 3. That title goes to the long-range, rear-wheel drive car, but Tesla still claims an impressive economy figure of 4.8mpkWh (20.8kWh/100km). Our test drive achieved a frugal 4.4mpkWh (22.7kWh/100km). Charging speeds are limited to 175kW, which still matches the ID 7, while the rest of the Model 3 range is capable of 250kW.
In the cabin, other luxuries are dropped. Ambient lighting is out, the sound system loses a subwoofer, and the steering wheel is manually adjustable, rather than electric. In the back, the rear passenger touchscreen is gone too, as are the rear-heated seats.
Regardless, this Model 3 is still very well equipped. Front heated seats, indicator stalks, and Tesla’s Autopilot system are included as standard, as is the brand’s staple 15.4-inch infotainment system and its associated wacky features, including Dog Mode and the newly available Grok AI system (Musk’s ChatGPT).
It’s quite comprehensive and effective, and can assist with navigation and display points of interest. Plus, in 2026’s most unwanted feature so far, a creepy Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mode. A panoramic sunroof also means the entire cabin is airy and bright, and generally a pleasant place to sit.
The Model 3’s lower entry price, excellent efficiency, ample usable performance and competitive specification position it more competitively than ever. Some rivals are more comfortable, and others will travel further on a charge, but as far as value goes, you’ll struggle to get a better deal than this.
Verdict: Quick, efficient and keenly priced, the cheapest Model 3 looks an absolute bargain. The pick of the line-up, unless you require maximum range.
