She Annoyed as Much as She Impressed
- Following the release of the new Y Juniper Model SUV, attention turns too the updated Tesla Model 3, unofficially dubbed "Highland." With a starting price around €40,320 (at...
- The Model 3 Propulsion was tested over three days, covering approximately 500 kilometers.
- The test vehicle's speed was electronically limited to 140 km/h (133 km/h as measured by GPS), though this did not appear to impede acceleration from 80 to 130...
tesla Model 3 (Highland): A 2025 Review
Table of Contents
- tesla Model 3 (Highland): A 2025 Review
- Tesla Model 3 (Highland) 2025 Review: Your Top Questions Answered
- What’s New with the Tesla Model 3 “Highland”?
- What is the Starting Price of the 2025 Tesla Model 3?
- What Are the Key specifications of the Model 3 Propulsion in the Test Drive?
- How Does the Exterior Styling of the 2025 Model 3 Compare to Previous models?
- Is the Tesla Model 3’s Exterior Design Considered “Bland”?
- What Are the Exterior Design Highlights?
- How spacious is the Interior of the 2025 Model 3?
- What is the Interior Design Philosophy of the Model 3?
- What are the Pros and Cons of the Panoramic Roof?
- How Large is the Trunk and Frunk?
- How Does the 2025 Model 3’s Performance compare to Other EVs?
- What is the Estimated Range and Charging Time?
- Here’s a summary table with key specifications discussed in the review:
- Image Gallery
- Conclusion
Following the release of the new Y Juniper Model SUV, attention turns too the updated Tesla Model 3, unofficially dubbed “Highland.” With a starting price around €40,320 (at the time of this review), this electric vehicle initially appears to offer considerable value. But does it remain a compelling option heading into 2025?
Test Drive: A Hectic Few Days
The Model 3 Propulsion was tested over three days, covering approximately 500 kilometers. The test vehicle, finished in a €2,000 “ultra red” paint, brought the total cost to €42,320. The evaluation included extensive highway driving, a nighttime excursion, a near-miss accident at 130 km/h, and experiences with the Autopilot system. The review aims to balance practical considerations with the vehicle’s inherent appeal.
The test vehicle’s speed was electronically limited to 140 km/h (133 km/h as measured by GPS), though this did not appear to impede acceleration from 80 to 130 km/h.
Key Specifications
- Model 3 Propulsion
- Single asynchronous motor with permanent magnet, variable power distribution to the rear wheels (horsepower figures not officially released by Tesla, estimated around 250 hp)
- Average energy consumption: 16 kWh/100 km (mixed driving, 70% highway, temperatures between 10°C and 20°C)
- Highway energy consumption at 130 km/h: Data not provided
- Charging time (20% to 80%): 28 minutes
- Standard heat pump
- Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities
- Heated, ventilated, and electrically adjustable front seats
- Heated rear seats
- 15-inch central display with AMD Ryzen 7 processor
- 8-inch rear display with dual Bluetooth connectivity
- Non-tinted panoramic roof
- Athermal laminated glass
- Weight: 1,765 kg
- Dimensions: Length 4,720 mm, width (with mirrors) 2,089 mm, width (without mirrors) 1,850 mm, height 1,440 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,875 mm
Exterior Styling: More Mature, But Bland?
The design evokes similarities to the Mazda 3 sedan, notably in the “ultra red” color, reminiscent of the shade used by Mazda. Tesla’s designer,Franz von Holzhausen,previously worked for Mazda before joining Tesla in 2008.
While the front fascia hints at the Dodge Viper and the rear displays a sporty curvature,the overall profile,with its extended overhangs,somewhat diminishes the dynamic appearance.
This design choice serves a purpose: maximizing interior space. The rear seats comfortably accommodate three adults with ample legroom, thanks to the flat floor. The trunk offers substantial cargo volume for its class, supplemented by a deep under-floor storage area and a front trunk (frunk) with considerable capacity.
The minimalist exterior design and the “ultra red metallic” paint are noted, with the paint reportedly exhibiting similar fragility issues as the white option. Side indicator repeaters are integrated into the camera housings. The absence of a front camera, a feature present in the Y Juniper Model, is a notable omission, especially considering the limitations of Tesla Vision.
Despite these points, the Model 3 maintains an appealing overall design, contributing to the resurgence in popularity of sedan body styles.
Interior: Minimalism Taken to the Extreme
Tesla has embraced minimalism in the Model 3’s interior. The cabin features a central touchscreen,a steering wheel,and two pedals. Traditional stalks have been removed, with gear selection now controlled via the touchscreen and turn signals activated through steering wheel controls. The center console is deep but recedes into the minimalist cabin.
The interior offers generous space. Two child seats can be easily installed while still providing ample legroom for front-seat passengers up to 1.80 meters tall. Both front and rear legroom are exceptionally cozy.
The cabin benefits from significant natural light, thanks to a low beltline that enhances visibility for passengers, particularly children. However, the two-part panoramic roof lacks a cover, which may be a drawback for some users.
Image Gallery
Tesla Model 3 (Highland) 2025 Review: Your Top Questions Answered
The Tesla Model 3 “Highland” has arrived, and with its refresh, it’s critically important to understand what has changed and if it remains a compelling choice in the electric vehicle market. this review answers some of the moast pressing questions about the 2025 Model 3,based on a recent test drive.
What’s New with the Tesla Model 3 “Highland”?
The “Highland” is an unofficial moniker for the updated Model 3. This refresh brings cosmetic and functional improvements,aiming to enhance the driving experience and overall appeal. Key updates will be discussed, including exterior styling, interior design, and performance aspects.
What is the Starting Price of the 2025 Tesla Model 3?
At the time of this review, the starting price was around €40,320. The tested model, with the “ultra red” paint option (€2,000), totaled €42,320.
What Are the Key specifications of the Model 3 Propulsion in the Test Drive?
- Model 3 Propulsion
- Single asynchronous motor with permanent magnet, variable power distribution to the rear wheels (estimated around 250 hp)
- Average energy consumption: 16 kWh/100 km (mixed driving)
- charging time (20% to 80%): 28 minutes
- Standard heat pump
- Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities
- Heated, ventilated, and electrically adjustable front seats
- heated rear seats
- 15-inch central display with AMD Ryzen 7 processor
- 8-inch rear display with dual Bluetooth connectivity
- Non-tinted panoramic roof
- Athermal laminated glass
- Weight: 1,765 kg
- Dimensions: Length 4,720 mm, width (with mirrors) 2,089 mm, width (without mirrors) 1,850 mm, height 1,440 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,875 mm
How Does the Exterior Styling of the 2025 Model 3 Compare to Previous models?
The exterior design evolves with a more mature aesthetic. It evokes a resemblance to the Mazda 3 sedan, notably in the “ultra red” color. The front fascia hints at the Dodge Viper, and the rear displays a sporty curvature, but the overall profile still prioritizes interior space.
Is the Tesla Model 3’s Exterior Design Considered “Bland”?
The review suggests the exterior design might be perceived as somewhat understated. While the design has appeal and contributes to the popularity of the sedan body style, the focus on maximizing interior space results in extended overhangs, possibly diminishing the dynamic appearance for some.
What Are the Exterior Design Highlights?
The minimalist design is a notable trait. The “ultra red metallic” paint adds visual interest. It also includes integrated side indicator repeaters into camera housings. It is indeed critically important to note that a front camera – a feature found in the Y Juniper Model – is notably absent due to the limitations of Tesla Vision.
How spacious is the Interior of the 2025 Model 3?
The interior is remarkably spacious compared to its class. The rear seats comfortably accommodate three adults with ample legroom, thanks to the flat floor. Both front and rear legroom are exceptionally cozy.
What is the Interior Design Philosophy of the Model 3?
Tesla has embraced extreme minimalism. The cabin features a central touchscreen, a steering wheel, and two pedals. Traditional stalks are gone, with gear selection on the touchscreen and turn signals on the steering wheel. The center console is deep and recedes into the minimalistic cabin.
What are the Pros and Cons of the Panoramic Roof?
The cabin benefits significantly from natural light due to a low beltline and the panoramic roof, enhancing visibility. However, the non-tinted two-part panoramic roof lacks a sunshade, which might be a drawback for some users due to heat and sunlight exposure.
How Large is the Trunk and Frunk?
The Model 3 offers a substantial trunk cargo volume.It is complemented by a deep under-floor storage area. Additionally, the front trunk (frunk) provides a considerable amount of storage space.
How Does the 2025 Model 3’s Performance compare to Other EVs?
While specific horsepower figures weren’t officially released, the test vehicle’s acceleration from 80 to 130 km/h remained strong despite being electronically limited to around 133 km/h as measured by GPS. Note that the data for highway energy consumption at 130 km/h was not provided in this review.
What is the Estimated Range and Charging Time?
The average energy consumption during the test was 16 kWh/100 km, driving mixed conditions. The charging time from 20% to 80% is approximately 28 minutes, which is a considerable advantage for daily usability.
Here’s a summary table with key specifications discussed in the review:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Model 3 Propulsion |
| motor | Single asynchronous motor (Rear Wheel Drive) |
| Estimated Power | Approx. 250 hp |
| average Consumption | 16 kWh/100 km (mixed) |
| Charging (20% to 80%) | 28 minutes |
| Weight | 1,765 kg |
| Dimensions (length) | 4,720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,875 mm |
| Displays | 15-inch central, 8-inch rear |
Image Gallery
Conclusion
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 “Highland” offers a compelling combination of electric performance, innovative technology, and interior space. While the updated styling may not be for everyone, and the minimalist interior requires adjustment, the vehicle’s overall package remains a top contender in the EV market. The efficiency and charging speed, combined with the well-designed interior, make it an attractive option for those seeking a modern electric sedan.