Posted on Feb 19, 2019 2021 at 6:07
Making an electric car for the general public, capable of replacing thermal vehicles: that was Elon Musk’s dream. Crazy but successful bet of the businessman. The market capitalization of the youngest international automobile brand today exceeds that of Toyota, VW, GM, BMW and Ferrari combined. And the new Model 3 unveiled in December should delight aficionados.
A car with a wise silhouette (inspired by the pioneer Model S), a sleek New York loft interior and, for 2021, a price reduction of up to 7,000 euros. What disrupt the segment of mid-size sedans from 35,000 to 70,000 dollars, one of the most contested in the world. Less expensive, the 2021 Model 3 is also more generous. Foamed plastic galore, now electric tailgate, double glazing, revised crimping… New cold sweats among competitors, who are also struggling to reach 580 km of range, the new benchmark established by the phenomenon.
In terms of autonomy, the Model 3 proudly displays 580 kilometers.DR
Not to mention its driving experience: riveted to the ground, the ultra-rigid chassis gives the feeling of being at the wheel of a rally car whose mass (1.8 tons) is erased by revivals worthy of a Porsche 911: 100 km in less than 5 seconds… Exhilarating. And reassuring: its brakes are always up to find a pace of senator. “Autopilot” engaged, the landscape scrolls without fatigue while the passengers (up to 5 without being too embarrassed) are lulled by the silence and tranquility of Rolls.
The central screen, remarkable for its simplicity and ergonomics, serves as a dashboard in itself.
The dashboard
A central screen as a dashboard: a remarkable commitment to simplicity and ergonomics. The only human-machine interface on board, this “iPad” is not just a gadget. Its size and especially its display intelligence allow easy reading, not to say instinctive, of everything you need: speed, air conditioning or navigation. While fearlessly using the faculties of the famous “Autopilot” of the brand.
The detail
Tesla is the only manufacturer to own its charging stations. The wait is thus less (only Tesla are admitted). But the use of public terminals currently being deployed remains possible.
The good surprise
In addition to its sharp drop in price (up to -15%; almost never seen in this segment), the Tesla Model 3 rightly comes to reassure lovers of German sedans who were surprised at a certain lack of rigor in the finishes. If some exterior assemblies remain to be perfected, the interior (including the new central console) is flawless.
Regret
Glazed… but not opening! Too bad the Model 3 roof still leaves no choice. Ditto for the “360 ° vision”, which allows to visualize a bodywork to the millimeter in its environment to avoid scratches, and surprisingly absent from this 2021 vintage.
Characteristics
Tesla Model 3 Great Autonomy
Power : 440 ch.
From 0 to 100 km / h: 4,4 s.
Length: 4,69 m.
WLTP consumption: 19.4 kWh / 100 km.
WLTP autonomy: 580 km.
Price: 51,990 euros (excluding bonus).
The alternatives
BMW iX3
Ford Mach-E
Mercedes EQA
VW iD3 and iD4
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