2019 Tesla Model 3

2019 Tesla Model 3 Highlights

The 2019 Tesla Model 3 offers a blend of performance, technology, and range that challenges electric vehicle and internal combustion engine (ICE) competitors. The 2019 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range and Standard Range Plus occupy the base tier with the lowest range, while the Mid Range version offers slightly more range.

The Long Range Model 3 boasts a 310-mile range and features dual-motor, all-wheel-drive traction. The 2019 Tesla Model 3 Performance variant delivers an exhilarating 0-60 time of only 3.3 seconds. This puts the Model 3 Performance in league with high-end sports cars while offering the practicality of a four-door sedan.

Competitors include the BMW 3-series, Genesis G70, Chevrolet Bolt, and Hyundai Kona Electric.

Key Details

• Compact sedan body style
• All-electric powertrain
• Multiple battery options
• Standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) or available dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD)
• 0-60 mph acceleration as quick as 3.3 seconds (Performance model)
• Range up to 310 miles on a single charge (Long Range model)
• Minimalist interior design with a 15-inch central touchscreen

Benefits

• Zero tailpipe emissions
• Lower operating costs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles
• High-performance options available
• Spacious interior with ample cargo space
• Advanced driver assistance features (Autopilot)
• Regular software updates adding new features and improvements
• Access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network

Learn More: How Long Do Tesla Model 3s Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

2019 Tesla Model 3 Overview

Performance

The 2019 Tesla Model 3 offers a range of performance options to suit different driving needs:

Standard Range:

• Single motor, rear-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds
• Top speed of 130 mph
• Range: 220 miles

Standard Range Plus:

• Single motor, rear-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds
• Top speed of 140 mph
• Range: 250 miles

Mid Range:

• Single motor, rear-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds
• Top speed of 140 mph
• Range: 260 miles

Long Range:

• Dual motor, all-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds
• Top speed of 145 mph
• Range: 310 miles

Performance:

• Dual motor, all-wheel drive
• 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds
• Top speed of 162 mph
• Range: 310 miles

The Model 3's electric powertrain delivers instant torque, resulting in quick acceleration across all variants. 2019 Tesla Model 3 0-60 times range from 5.6 seconds to 3.3 seconds. In addition, the dual-motor setup in the 2019 Tesla Model 3 Long Range and Performance models provides all-wheel-drive via two electric motors, one for each axle, allowing for precise torque distribution between the front and rear wheels.

All Model 3 variants benefit from regenerative braking, which helps to extend range and reduces wear on the traditional friction brakes.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2019 Model 3 a top five-star overall safety rating. Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a "Top Safety Pick+," the organization’s highest award.

Standard safety features across all 2019 Tesla Model 3 variants include:

• Multiple airbags
• Electronic stability control
• Traction control
• Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Rigid aluminum and steel body structure

The Model 3 also offers Tesla's Autopilot system, which includes advanced driver assistance features:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Cross-traffic alert
• Active lane control
• Traffic-Aware Cruise Control
• Autosteer
• Auto Lane Change
• Autopark
• Summon

For an additional cost, the Full Self-Driving Capability package adds:

• Navigate on Autopilot
• Auto Lane Change
• Autopark
• Summon
• Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control

Despite its name, the Full Self-Driving Capability still requires active driver supervision and does not make the vehicle autonomous.

Driving

The instant torque delivery characteristic of electric motors provides quick and smooth acceleration. Meanwhile, the Model 3's low center of gravity contributes to excellent handling characteristics thanks to its floor-mounted battery pack. The car feels planted in corners, with minimal body roll. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver.

Ride quality is generally smooth, though it can feel firm on rougher roads, especially in models equipped with larger wheels. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, providing a serene cabin environment at highway speeds.

For drivers new to electric vehicles, the regenerative braking system takes some getting used to, but once acclimated, it allows for efficient one-pedal driving in many situations. The strength of regenerative braking can be adjusted to suit driver preferences.

Interior

The 2019 Tesla Model 3's interior revolves around a minimalist design and full-length glass roof. Occupants are greeted by a spacious cabin dominated by a large 15-inch central touchscreen that controls most of the vehicle's functions, including the gauge cluster.

The seating is comfortable, with good support for longer journeys. The front seats offer ample adjustability, while the rear seats provide adequate legroom for adult passengers. The flat floor in the rear, a benefit of the electric powertrain design, enhances the feeling of spaciousness.

Material quality is generally good, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. The optional Premium Interior package adds upgraded materials, including open-pore wood trim and leather seating surfaces.

Cargo space is generous for a sedan of this size. The Model 3 offers 15 cubic feet of trunk space, supplemented by a front trunk (or "frunk") that provides an additional three cubic feet of storage. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, allowing further cargo flexibility.

2019 Tesla Model 3 interior features include:

• 15-inch central touchscreen
• Glass roof
• Dual-zone climate control
• Power-adjustable front seats
• Heated front and rear seats (in Premium Interior package)
• Premium audio system (in Premium Interior package)

Technology

The 2019 Tesla Model 3’s tech centers around the 15-inch central touchscreen that controls most of the vehicle's functions. Key technology features include:

• Over-the-air software updates
• Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity
• Navigation with real-time traffic information
• Access to Tesla's Supercharger network
• Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
• Four USB ports and docking for two smartphones

Fuel Economy

As an all-electric vehicle, the 2019 Tesla Model 3’s efficiency is measured in miles per kilowatt-hour (mi/kWh). The EPA provides the following efficiency ratings:

Standard Range:

• 138 MPGe city / 124 MPGe highway / 131 MPGe combined

Mid Range:

• 128 MPGe city / 117 MPGe highway / 123 MPGe combined

Long Range (RWD):

• 136 MPGe city / 123 MPGe highway / 130 MPGe combined

Long Range (AWD):

• 124 MPGe city / 116 MPGe highway / 121 MPGe combined

Performance:

• 119 MPGe city / 112 MPGe highway / 116 MPGe combined

2019 Tesla Model 3 Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book, based on 186 reviews, gave the 2019 Tesla Model 3 an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. This strong score reflects high praise for its performance, reliability, quality, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Impressive performance, especially in dual-motor variants
• Long electric range, particularly in Long Range model
• Advanced technology features
• Spacious and minimalist interior design
• Access to Tesla's Supercharger network
• Strong safety ratings

Problems

• Higher initial purchase price compared to some competitors
• The minimalist interior may not appeal to all buyers
• Some build quality issues reported by early adopters
• Limited service network compared to traditional automakers
• Autopilot system can be controversial and misunderstood

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CoPilot's Take

The 2019 Tesla Model 3 represents a significant step forward in the mass-market adoption of electric vehicles. Its strengths lie in its impressive electric range, quick acceleration across all variants, and advanced technology features. The minimalist interior design, centered around the large touchscreen, creates a modern and spacious feel. Regular over-the-air updates ensure that the vehicle continues to improve over time.

However, Model 3 is not without drawbacks. The reliance on the touchscreen for most controls can be distracting for some drivers and may take time to get used to. Additionally, while Tesla has been working to improve its production quality, some early adopters reported build quality issues.

2019 Tesla Model 3 FAQs

How much does a 2019 Tesla Model 3 cost?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2019 Tesla Model 3 costs $14,000 to $34,000, depending on condition, mileage, equipment, and market conditions.

Is the 2019 Tesla Model 3 reliable?

The 2019 Tesla Model 3 has shown generally good reliability, especially compared to earlier model years. Consumer Reports gave it an above-average reliability rating. The simplicity of the electric drivetrain, with fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engines, contributes to its reliability. However, some owners have reported issues with build quality.

How long does a 2019 Tesla Model 3 battery last?

Tesla estimates the Model 3 battery should last 300,000 to 500,000 miles or about 1500 charge cycles. In terms of years, this could translate to 20-30 years for the average driver.

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