Tesla Model 3 I

Model 3 in brief

The Model 3 has been in production since 2017 and has been sold in Europe since 2019. It's a four-door saloon with a rear boot and a small front boot. Initially, cars destined for Europe were built in the USA, but later most were supplied by Tesla's factory in Shanghai.

The Model 3 is praised for its low energy consumption, speed, over-the-air software updates, and Tesla's Supercharger network. Almost all controls are moved to the central screen, so it's worth ensuring this setup suits you before buying.

Early Model 3 and Highland – what's the difference

The first Model 3s sold in Europe (2019–2020) had chrome window trim and no heat pump. From the 2021 model year (built from late 2020) cars gained a heat pump, black window trim, an electrically opening boot, and double-glazed front side windows. The difference is noticeable in winter, so it's worth opting for these cars in the used market.

The refreshed Model 3, dubbed the Highland, hit European roads at the end of 2023. It boasts a new front and rear, a significantly quieter cabin, a more comfortable suspension, ventilated front seats, and a screen in the rear row, with turn signals activated by buttons on the steering wheel. In the used market, the Highland is pricier for now, but it's the most refined Model 3 yet.

Versions, batteries, and charging

The base version was called Standard Range Plus until 2021, then simply RWD. It has a single motor and rear-wheel drive. Long Range and Performance models have dual motors and all-wheel drive (Dual Motor), a larger battery, and significantly more power: the Performance can hit 100 km/h in under 4 seconds.

The base versions have a battery capacity of around 50–60 kWh, while Long Range and Performance models have about 75–82 kWh. According to the manufacturer's (WLTP) data, base versions can travel around 400–500 km, Long Range around 550–600 km and more, but in reality, especially on the motorway, the range is often less. Some base models produced in Shanghai come with LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries, which the manufacturer recommends charging to 100% regularly.

Winter driving range drops: in cold weather, you often see a 20–30% reduction, and even more on short trips, as energy is used to heat the cabin and battery. In Europe, the Model 3 charges via the CCS2 connector: usually with variable current up to 11 kW, and much faster at rapid charging stations. A cold battery charges more slowly, so it's worth pre-conditioning it before rapid charging.

What to check when buying a used Model 3

The most important thing is the battery's condition. Charge the car to 100% and compare the displayed range with the new car's specs. Tesla batteries typically degrade slowly, but those with high mileage or frequent rapid charging may have noticeably reduced capacity. In newer software versions, battery health can be checked in service mode — ask the seller for these results or check at a service center.

Early build quality was inconsistent: check the gaps between body panels, paint, and seams. Listen for clunks and rattles over bumps — the Model 3 often needs front upper control arms replaced. Check that heating and air conditioning work evenly.

Some Model 3s sold in Lithuania are imported from the US, some after accidents, so check the history via the VIN. On the screen, see which additional software features (e.g., enhanced Autopilot) are assigned to the car and if they won't be locked to the previous owner.

Versions

Tesla doesn't have conventional trims — cars differ by versions (battery, engines) and production years. We list the versions most commonly found in Europe.

Model 3 variants compared

Most buyers' best bet is a 2021 or newer Long Range with a heat pump. RWD is ideal for city driving, while Performance is worth choosing for dynamics alone.

Frequently asked questions