2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland: A Comprehensive Review of the Latest Upgrade in EV Excellence

Review: The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland elevates a foundational electric vehicle to new heights.

Some industry observers suggest that other car manufacturers might be somewhat relieved by CEO Elon Musk's actions, which they believe have hindered Tesla's sales expansion.

This is due to the fact that the Model 3 Highland is an exceptional vehicle, a standout product that maintains the efficiency and charging convenience of its forerunner while being more user-friendly.

Interestingly, much like Tesla's CEO, the car is ideal only if you're willing to overlook some frustrating interface quirks that could be significant enough to deter some buyers.

I found great pleasure in driving the standard version of the Model 3. The interior is now much quieter compared to earlier electric vehicles. It offers a more spirited driving experience than its predecessor, which enhances the attractiveness of this pioneering electric car. This vehicle showcases the smart design and engineering that the company is known for.

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

Earlier this year, the model known casually as Highland was released, and it might initially seem like a minor mid-cycle update. However, after spending a day with one through a Turo rental, I can assure you it's far more significant.

In the interest of transparency, I drove the Model 3 in Southern California. The roads there are typically well-maintained, the climate is mild, and Superchargers seem almost as common as gas stations.

2024 Tesla Model Three

The entry-level Tesla Model 3, now with a bit more flair

Taking a step back, the Highland Model 3 maintains the familiar silhouette that Tesla has offered since the Model 3 debuted in 2017, featuring the same doors and side/rear design. However, when viewed from the front or back, it presents a noticeably different appearance. While I remained unsure about the new rear design and its streamlined lighting integrated into the trunk lid, even after my brief test drive, I did observe that the redesigned front end, with its sharper crease, gives the car a sportier and more coupe-like roofline when viewed from various front angles.

I took a spin in the basic Rear-Wheel Drive version of the Tesla Model 3, which sported the eye-catching Ultra Red paint job priced at $2,000 and the 19-inch Nova wheels costing $1,000, equipped with Continental ProContact tires. These wheels reduce the EPA range for this model to 248 miles, compared to the maximum 272 miles achievable with the 18-inch aero wheels. The total cost came to $43,630, factoring in the required $1,390 destination fee and a $250 order fee.

This entry-level Model 3 boasts an impressive array of standard amenities, according to conventional car-buying standards: a glass roof, an electric trunk, climate-controlled front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a navigation system, and a separate rear display that was, until recently, exclusive to premium luxury vehicles.

2024 Tesla Model 3

Tesla Model 3, 202

2024 Version of the Tesla Model

One of the most significant technological aspects of the base Model 3 is its battery. The Department of Energy notes that it features a total capacity of 60.9 kWh, with an effective capacity of 57.5 kWh. This battery comprises lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells arranged in a prismatic format. While Tesla is reportedly considering shifting part of its supply chain to the United States under the guidance of China’s CATL, these batteries are currently sourced from China.

This particular model doesn't qualify for the $7,500 electric vehicle tax credit because of its battery pack, unlike other Model 3 versions that meet the made-in-America criteria. Currently, the Model 3 Long Range RWD ends up being $4,000 cheaper if you are eligible for the tax credit, though the base Model 3 offers a better leasing option. However, the LFP version has its own benefits, such as Tesla's recommendation to charge it fully to 100% at least once a week.

From a value perspective, even without considering the tax credit, it's important to remember that a similarly equipped Model 3 in a more vibrant color, with the standard 18-inch wheels, would be priced at just $40,630.

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

2024 Tesla Model 3 Electric

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

Highland offers a more refined appearance at the joints

Upon a closer look at the exterior, everything appeared to be well-aligned and the body-panel seams were snug. From my experience with earlier Model 3 versions, I noticed that prior to the Highland update, many had inconsistent or wider seams—this was true even for the last Model 3 I drove, which was a Tesla press vehicle back in 2019.

On the subject of seating, the Model 3 now features front seats that are both heated and cooled, and you can activate the seat ventilation in advance using the app. However, from a comfort and support standpoint, there is room for improvement. While they are somewhat improved compared to the first-generation Model 3 seats, they still feel relatively flat and insufficiently padded. What they really need is enhanced support for the lower back and buttocks to keep you secure during turns. The seating position is pleasantly low, which is the only thing preventing the Model 3 from fully feeling like a sporty sedan you sit in, rather than on. Unfortunately, the lack of contoured seats contributes to the latter sensation.

2024 Tesla Model 3

Tesla Model 3 for 202

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

Although the seats remain mostly unchanged, the difference in ride quality is substantial. The previous model's ride was characterized as rigid and restless, with noticeable road noise even on smooth pavement. In terms of noise reduction and comfort, the experience felt akin to entering a luxury version of the Model 3, even on the rougher side streets of Santa Monica, where my journey began.

Is this the top budget-friendly EV for driving enthusiasts?

As I navigated through some beloved twisty canyon paths, it became clear that the Model 3, even with its LFP battery configuration, delivers an impressive driving experience. Regardless of the price, the Model 3—even in its standard version—would be among my top choices for electric vehicles to take on a winding road for some driving pleasure.

This Model 3 variant, equipped with a single permanent-magnet motor driving the rear wheels and generating 257 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, felt faster than its official 0-60 mph time when navigating city streets and the winding roads I chose for my test drive. However, when shifting from the right lane to the left on an open stretch of US 101, it became evident that, similar to other single-motor electric vehicles, its performance diminishes at higher, legal speeds.

2024 Tesla Model 3

2024 Tesla Model 3

Upcoming 2024 Edition of the

Additionally, the vehicle is agile and well-balanced. Weighing in at under 4,000 pounds and with adjustments that maintain a light feel, it was perfectly suited for a road often used as a tuning standard for many sports cars, including the Model 3 Performance. The steering felt excellently calibrated in both Standard and Heavy modes (there’s also a Light mode). Notably, the Heavy mode did not have the unnatural centering that is common in such settings.

The standard Model 3 is not designed for high performance, but it has a similar feel to base BMW 3-Series models that have been refined over many years. When driven more aggressively, it loses some precision but responds in a consistent and manageable manner.

Tesla typically excels at regenerative braking, and their newest vehicles offer no customization in this regard. When you release the accelerator in the Model 3, the car decelerates swiftly, converting kinetic energy into stored battery power, while the brake pedal solely activates the friction brakes. This Model 3 was the first Tesla I experienced that lacked a light or low regenerative braking mode, and it also didn't have an optional creep function when the brake pedal is released.

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

The precision in handling, accelerating, braking, and overall vehicle dynamics reflects a level of coordination in the driving experience that many electric vehicles lack. It seems to showcase the unified efforts of an engineering team aligned on key priorities.

Certainly, a redesigned front suspension geometry enhances the vehicle's precision and agility. The previous Model 3's noticeable bouncing on winding roads has been eliminated; now, this version smoothly absorbs sudden bumps or changes in road elevation without causing disruption. Additionally, Tesla has revamped the rear subframe, a critical component for the Model 3's smooth ride, while also updating the bushings and incorporating frequency-selective dampers throughout the vehicle.

Despite the advanced technology, the Model 3 maintains a minimalist design. Initially, I appreciated its nimble handling, impressive ride comfort, and quiet cabin. However, when caught in traffic, I started to notice the interior details more closely. The materials are definitely improved, and Tesla wisely opted for textiles over the previous woodgrain finish. However, I'm not entirely convinced by the multi-color ambient lighting, a feature now common in many new budget-friendly vehicles.

2024 Tesla Model 3

Upon closer inspection, the materials feel superior and the overall craftsmanship has clearly advanced. However, it just meets the standard of other vehicles priced at $40,000, nothing beyond that. In fact, I can think of numerous cars in the same price range that provide more attractive seats, trims, and surface finishes.

The central feature of the Model 3, its touchscreen, remains largely unchanged and continues to offer a superior interface compared to many other electric vehicles—provided you're comfortable using a section of the single screen for gauges and relying on it for nearly all functions. The left side of the screen consistently displays speed, safety system statuses, and a visualization of nearby vehicles, with audio controls situated below. Despite this, the flat menu system ensures you can easily and quickly access what you need. Additionally, a virtual tray containing climate controls, navigation, and more is permanently fixed at the bottom of the screen.

There is no support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and you must be comfortable with this limitation. However, the built-in navigation system is outstanding. Tesla provides basic navigation data and updates for eight years as part of the package. For an additional fee of $99 annually or $9.99 per month, you can access premium data services, including audio and video streaming, live camera sentry features, and more.

2024 Tesla Model 3

The 2024 Edition of the

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

Similar to the earlier Model 3, the latest version lacks dedicated switches for adjusting the mirrors and steering wheel. Instead, these adjustments are made through a somewhat awkward combination of the touchscreen and steering-wheel controls. Additionally, you can still manually direct the air vents by virtually moving them on the screen, which seems like an unnecessary feature. Possibly aligning with Tesla's Full Self-Driving initiative, the Highland model has streamlined the interface further by eliminating the turn-signal stalk and shift lever, much like the steering yoke in the Model S and X.

Passion for the car, frustration with the controls

The hardest aspect to get used to is the turn-signal function. Instead of the usual stalk, there are two buttons on the steering wheel—one on top for right and one below for left. Even if you try to imagine it as a traditional turn-signal stalk moving in those directions, after a full day of use, I still found myself mixing them up in stressful situations, like when making quick lane changes on the highway. Additionally, it seems there's no option to simply flash the signal three times; you have to press it once to turn it on and again to turn it off. While I didn't drive much at night, I anticipate a similar learning curve for the high-beam control, which is also a steering-wheel button.

2024 Tesla Model 3

In the 2024 Model 3, the traditional shift stalk has been removed, making way for a more modern shifting mechanism that I quickly adapted to over the course of a day. A textured area in the upper left corner of the screen now serves as a shift pad. To operate it, you press the brake pedal and then swipe up for Drive, swipe down for Reverse, or tap for Park. There are also additional touch-buttons located near the rearview mirror, but I didn’t find them necessary as the screen-based shifting became intuitive after parking a few times. The car also features a predictive shifting option that uses cameras, sensors, and your recent driving behavior to automatically determine whether to switch to Drive or Reverse. However, I didn’t have enough time with the Model 3 to fully test this feature.

Certain aspects of the interface have significantly improved. Tesla has upgraded the Model 3’s entry technology, and it seamlessly recognized my phone as a key without any issues. In other vehicles, I've often felt uncertain about whether the car would lock as I walked away. However, with the Model 3, I observed the car shutting down from a distance. When I returned with my phone in my pocket, the car would automatically unlock and open any door or the trunk without needing additional presses or manual unlocking.

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

Rear-seat occupants now have access to their own touchscreen, which performs impressively well. It matches the front screen in speed and features, offering climate control (including adjustable touchscreen vents), audio management, gaming, viewing options, and additional functionalities. Heated seats come standard for the outer seats, and passengers can adjust them using the touchscreen.

Passengers can comfortably sit in the back, as the rear seat offers ample space for two, although headroom might be a bit restrictive. The vehicle's storage solutions are impressively designed, featuring large door bins, several deep covered compartments in the center console, and a soft-touch console top that provides comfort for both drivers and passengers. The car boasts significant storage capacity with a trunk offering 21.0 cubic feet and a frunk with 3.1 cubic feet. Notably, the frunk is deep enough to be practical, making it ideal for placing grocery bags with fragile items like eggs or a couple of daypacks. The space is ample yet compact enough to prevent items from shifting around during transport.

2024 Edition of the Tesla Model

Tesla has revamped the audio setup, yet the nine-speaker system in the Highland didn’t stand out. Although it works well for podcasts and most streaming music, it was missing the deep low-mid-range tones I had appreciated in earlier Long Range Model 3 and Model Y encounters. Other Model 3 variants continue to feature a more superior sound system.

Every Model 3 is equipped with an identical set of Autopilot cameras and sensors. However, the particular Model 3 I tested did not have the Full Self-Driving package enabled, which currently costs $8,000 or can be accessed via subscription. This allowed me to evaluate the base-level capabilities. While it performs decently, it's not top-tier. The car can maintain a well-defined lane and usually steers smoothly, but it struggled on sections of LA's US 101 where lane markings were faint and the pavement was made up of two different materials.

The Tesla Model 3 Highland excels in efficiency and charging: A major success

This new version of the Model 3 is an incredibly attractive electric vehicle. During my real-world test drive, it met all the expectations for efficiency and charging performance.

Based on the trip computer's data, I managed to achieve an average of over 4.1 miles per kilowatt-hour across a distance of 158 miles, despite not focusing on driving efficiently. The journey encompassed city streets, coastal drives, challenging canyon roads, as well as a blend of open highways and the congested I-405. For the majority of the trip, the temperature was maintained at 74 degrees Fahrenheit, although I did reduce it briefly when the midday sun was shining intensely through the side roof, which could be a concern.

Tesla's approach to route planning remains the standard to beat, and the reasons are evident. When I used the Model 3's navigation system, it efficiently directed me to a nearby Supercharger station, offering several options to choose from. The system also displayed the number of available chargers and indicated how many other Tesla vehicles were en route to the same station. The Supercharger station in Santa Monica was in excellent condition, featuring on-site restrooms and a solar array overhead for shade.

2024 Tesla Model 3 spotted at Santa Monica Supercharger station

Tesla states that the LFP model can reach a peak charging power of 170 kilowatts, and I observed it hit 168 kilowatts momentarily when initiating a charge at 15%. From that point, it only took 23 minutes to reach an 80% charge at the crowded Santa Monica charging station. At 80% capacity, the displayed range was 189 miles, which extrapolates to almost 240 miles with a full charge, considering the vehicle had more eye-catching wheels.

Tesla is renowned for its efficiency and charging capabilities, which is why I initially focused on other aspects. Despite some frustrating interface choices and occasional controversies from leadership, Tesla has crafted a smooth, polite, and enjoyable electric vehicle to drive. It's a car I'd prefer to drive myself rather than being a passenger in, and it proves its value in more ways than just its efficiency, Supercharging network, and Autopilot features.

2024 Tesla Model 3

Why is Tesla continuing to produce cars that offer such an enjoyable driving experience if their ultimate goal is for us to give up control and let the vehicle operate autonomously as a robotaxi? This doesn't seem to align with their previously abandoned Master Plan, does it?

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