The 2025 Tesla Model 3 RWD is the sharp, entry-point to Tesla’s groundbreaking sedan lineup, offering a compelling blend of tech, performance, and that all-important badge appeal for the US market. This rear-wheel-drive variant, part of the recent "Highland" refresh, shines with its minimalist chic and impressive efficiency. New models start around $38,990. Its core strengths lie in a practical real-world range, a futuristic cabin, and access to Tesla's superb Supercharger network, making it a top contender for anyone diving into premium EV ownership without wanting the quickest, priciest version.
For 2025, the Model 3 RWD carries forward the significant "Highland" updates, making it feel fresh and refined. This includes a sleeker, more aerodynamic exterior with new headlight and taillight designs. Inside, the cabin is noticeably quieter thanks to acoustic glass and boasts upgraded materials, customizable ambient LED lighting, and a new 8-inch rear touchscreen for passengers. Ventilated front seats and a revised suspension for improved ride comfort are also key upgrades, ensuring this popular EV stays ahead of the curve in the competitive US market.
The 2025 Model 3 RWD looks seriously slick with its "Highland" facelift, featuring a more aggressive front-end and cleaner lines. Measuring 185.8 inches long, 72.8 inches wide (excluding mirrors), and 56.7 inches high, it’s got a sporty, hunkered-down stance. Standard aero-efficient wheels distinguish this RWD trim, contributing to its impressive range. The new slimmer LED headlights and C-shaped taillights give it a distinctive, modern signature on the road, ensuring it turns heads whether it's gliding silently through city streets or parked up.
Step inside the 2025 Model 3 RWD, and you're greeted by a minimalist yet upscale cabin, a hallmark of the "Highland" update with improved materials and a wraparound feel. It comfortably seats five. Dominating the dash is a crisp 15.4-inch central touchscreen controlling almost everything – no official Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, but Tesla’s system is ace. Rear passengers get their own 8-inch screen too! Cargo is generous, with 21 cubic feet in the trunk and a handy 3.1 cubic feet in the frunk. Folding the rear seats unlocks considerably more space.
The Model 3 RWD is surprisingly nippy, zipping from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds thanks to its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) sending 208 kW and 310 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. This setup makes for a classic, engaging RWD feel. It’s not just about straight-line poke; the handling is agile and direct, and the "Highland" refresh brought a more compliant ride. One-pedal driving via its regenerative braking is smooth and intuitive, making city driving a breeze. Maximum speed is a respectable 125 mph.
Rocking a 57.5 kWh (usable) battery pack, the Model 3 RWD delivers a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 280 miles – plenty for most daily driving and even some road trips. Efficiency is a strong suit at 4.87 mi/kWh. AC charging via its NACS port hits up to 7.7 kW, meaning a full top-up overnight is easy (approx. 7.5 hours). For rapid boosts, it can guzzle DC juice at up to 170 kW from a Supercharger, adding significant range in under 30 minutes. Currently, V2L isn't offered on US models.
Safety is a Tesla strong point, with the Model 3 consistently earning top marks, including a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for the refreshed model. Standard Autopilot provides adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, which are great for highway stints. You also get crucial features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. For even more advanced self-driving capabilities, Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving (Beta) are available as optional upgrades, though always require driver supervision.
Tesla backs the 2025 Model 3 RWD with a basic vehicle warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The critical battery and drive unit are covered for a more generous 8 years or 100,000 miles, guaranteeing at least 70% battery retention over that period. Tesla doesn't typically offer complimentary scheduled maintenance like some rivals, as their EVs generally require less upkeep. Overall reliability is solid, benefiting from fewer moving parts than a traditional gasoline car, making for potentially lower running costs.
Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus (2019-2021) 
