Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD

Overview

The 2023 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD, now a sought-after discontinued gem, masterfully blended range, tech, and stonking performance, making it a dominant force in the electric saloon game. This dual-motor, all-wheel-drive variant was the sweet spot, offering an impressive balance of everyday usability and thrilling acceleration. For European buyers, it represented cutting-edge EV tech with access to Tesla's Supercharger network. While no longer new, savvy buyers can snag one on the used market, with estimated prices around €21,480, offering a premium EV experience that still feels incredibly current.

What's New for 2023?

For its final model year before the "Highland" refresh, the 2023 Model 3 Long Range AWD largely carried over its winning formula. Tesla, known for its over-the-air updates, continuously refined the software, enhancing features and performance throughout its lifespan. While major hardware changes were minimal for this specific year, buyers got a mature platform benefitting from years of iteration. This meant consistent build quality and the latest software smarts, making it a polished version of a hugely popular electric car, right before its successor stepped in.

Design & Exterior

The Model 3 Long Range AWD boasts that iconic, minimalist Tesla aesthetic – a smooth, aerodynamically sculpted saloon that still turns heads. Its clean lines are complemented by sleek LED lighting and typically 18-inch Aero wheels, though 19-inch Sport alloys were a popular option. Dimensionally, it measures 4695 mm in length, 1850 mm in width (mirrors folded), and stands 1445 mm tall. Subtle "Dual Motor" badging hints at its all-wheel-drive capability, but otherwise, it’s a masterclass in understated EV cool. It's a design that's aged remarkably well.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Model 3, and you're greeted by a cabin that’s all about minimalist chic, dominated by a massive 15-inch central touchscreen. This screen controls virtually everything, from navigation to climate, as Tesla shuns Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for its slick proprietary system. Passenger space is decent for a saloon of its size. For your luggage, there's a generous 561-litre boot, expanding to 1235 litres with the seats down, plus a handy 88-litre frunk under the bonnet. Material quality is good, offering a premium feel in this Long Range trim.

Performance & Driving Experience

This Long Range AWD is no slouch; mash the pedal and it rockets from 0-100 km/h in a blistering 4.4 seconds! Its dual-motor setup, an AC Induction motor at the front and a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor at the rear, churns out a combined 366 kW and a hefty 493 Nm of torque. This translates to instant, thrilling acceleration and sure-footed all-wheel-drive grip. The driving experience is agile and direct, though the ride can be on the firmer side. Strong regenerative braking allows for easy one-pedal driving, making city jaunts a breeze.

Range, Battery & Charging

Packed with a 75 kWh usable battery, the Model 3 Long Range AWD delivers an impressive Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range estimate of 537 km. It sips energy at a rate of 7.16 km/kWh. For charging, its standard 11 kW on-board AC charger can top up the battery overnight in around 7 hours. When you’re out and about, it can guzzle electrons at up to 250 kW from a DC fast charger via its CCS Type 2 port, meaning significant range can be added in under 30 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is paramount in the Model 3, backed by a stellar 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard Autopilot provides adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, taking the stress out of motorway slogs. Blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance, and emergency braking systems are all part of the comprehensive safety suite. For those wanting more, Tesla offered optional Enhanced Autopilot or the Full Self-Driving Capability package, adding features like auto lane change and Summon, though their full functionality can vary by region and ongoing software development.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

In Europe, Tesla typically backs the Model 3 with a 4-year/80,000 km basic vehicle warranty. Crucially for an EV, the battery and drive unit in this Long Range variant are covered for a more substantial 8 years or 192,000 km, guaranteeing at least 70% battery capacity retention. Maintenance is delightfully minimal thanks to fewer moving parts than a petrol car, with many updates handled over-the-air. This generally translates to lower running costs and a hassle-free ownership experience, contributing to its strong reputation for powertrain reliability.