In an era where electric cars are fighting for every mile of range and every euro of savings, Tesla has made an interesting move with the Tesla Model 3 Standard – a version that is like the premium model's older brother, only stripped of a few unnecessary luxury extras. If you were expecting a revolutionary redesign, like the Model Y, get ready for a subtle surprise: less is really more, at least for your wallet. But is this "standard" really the standard for the modern urban man? Let's take a look under the hood – or rather, under the glass roof.
At first glance, you might think that they are Tesla engineers after a wild renovation Model Y (article at the link) simply said: “Enough for today, let's go for coffee.” Design at Tesla Model 3 The standard remains distinctive and aerodynamic, with improved efficiency that reaches up to 321 miles per gallon on the EPA standard. New 18-inch Photon wheels, inspired by the Cybertruck, add that “I’m from the future” touch – with an aerodynamic cover that can be removed for a more “vintage” look, as some reviewers jokingly describe it. Color options? Only three: white, black or gray – because, why complicate things when minimalism is the new black? Let's take a look at some reviews: Tesla Model 3 Standard
It's a big news front camera, which improves self-driving and is now standard in all new Model 3 and also Tesla Model 3 Standard. Which is important for the future, which brings fully autonomous driving and for which this car is ready – regardless of the standard equipment. The headlights remain matrix with adaptive high beams, who do not blind their opponents – unlike the Model Y Standard, where they “forgot” that. Charging? A maximum of 225 kW, which means slightly slower sessions at superchargers, but still enough for those who don’t drive like in a race on German highways.
Interior: Minimalism that breathes comfort – Tesla Model 3 Standard
The interior is where the true “standard” essence is revealed. The glass roof remains so as not to steal valuable space in this low sedan – thank you, Tesla, because taller drivers (say, those over 190 cm) would feel like they were sitting in a sardine can. The seats are made of textile and vegan leather: breathable, comfortable and stain-resistant, but without ventilation – because, who needs cooling when it’s already hot enough outside? Settings? All via the central display – as they say at Tesla, “once you set a profile, why would you ever touch buttons again?” The manual steering wheel is that small compromise that reminds you of the old days when cars still had levers and not just screens: no electric shift, but hey, at least it’s heated.
The back row is simple: no additional screen, just vents and a USB-C port. Space? Ideal for shorter passengers, but for taller ones, call it an “intimate ride.” The sound system is reduced to seven speakers without a subwoofer, but still offers solid bass – tested in the hot Texas sun. No FM/AM radio? Who needs it anyway, except maybe your neighbor with a Rivian who is always in service because of it? The technology remains top-notch: an AMD Ryzen processor for speed, a heat pump for efficiency, and Sentry mode for safety.
Performance and trade-offs: Worth the savings?
With a 5.8-second 0-62 mph time and rear-wheel drive, it's still fun to drive, but without the freebies. Auto Steer – only Traffic Aware Cruise Control. Pay extra for full self-driving. There will be a subscription fee, apparently. Range drops with larger wheels, but for city driving, an 18-inch set is ideal. The trade-offs? A smaller battery, slower charging, and a few “less premium” details, like manual mirror folding – as if Musk were saying: “Back to basics, people!” But for €5,000 less? In Europe, the car will be around €34,990 before subsidies. That’s about as much as Renault 4-etechIt's like ordering an espresso instead of a latte macchiato - still good, just without the foam.
In the end: If you're looking for an electric car without unnecessary extravagance, the Tesla Model 3 Standard is a great choice - the same look, space and essential features as the premium, but cheaper. Is it worth the 5,000 euros savings? It's up to you - if you're the type who prefers to pay for self-driving, go higher. Otherwise, why not? Share your opinion in the comments: Would you buy it or would you rather wait for Musk's next trick? And don't forget to share on social media - maybe Tesla will invite you to the next event!