Tesla Model 3 Long Range RWD

Overview

The updated 2025 Tesla Model 3 'Highland' is a game-changer, and this short-lived Long Range RWD version is the range king of the lineup. It brilliantly blends impressive efficiency with Tesla’s cutting-edge tech and a sleek new look. Positioned as the ideal choice for drivers prioritising maximum distance between charges without sacrificing the brand's signature punchy performance, it offers a compelling package. While this specific trim had a brief production run from 2024 to 2025, it represents a sweet spot in the Model 3 family for those who can find one.

What's New for 2025?

The big story is the 'Highland' refresh, which completely overhauls the Model 3 experience for its final model year in this trim. The exterior gets a sharper, more aerodynamic design, while the cabin is where the magic really happens. It's significantly quieter thanks to acoustic glass all around, and features higher-quality materials, a slick wrap-around ambient light strip, and ventilated front seats. Most controversially, Tesla has ditched the indicator and gear selector stalks, moving their functions to steering wheel buttons and the massive central touchscreen.

Design & Exterior

The Highland update gives the Model 3 a much-needed nip-and-tuck, resulting in a more aggressive and premium aesthetic. The front end is now properly sharp with slim, new matrix LED headlights and a cleaner bumper design that ditches the old car’s slightly gormless look. The rear features striking C-shaped taillights with 'TESLA' spelled out across the boot lid. It's a slippery shape, designed to cheat the wind for better range. The car measures 4720 mm in length, 1849 mm in width, and a low-slung 1440 mm in height.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, it’s peak Tesla minimalism, but with a premium upgrade. The clean dashboard is dominated by the crisp 15.4-inch central screen that controls everything. An 8-inch screen has been added for rear passengers, giving them control over climate and entertainment. The cabin feels airy and spacious for five. Practicality is a strong suit, with a massive 594-litre boot that expands to 977 litres with the seats folded, all supplemented by a very useful 88-litre frunk under the bonnet for stashing charging cables or shopping.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't let the single motor fool you; this thing is seriously quick. The rear-wheel-drive setup provides 250 kW and 450 Nm of instant torque, launching the car from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 5.2 seconds. The permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is incredibly smooth and efficient. Thanks to the 'Highland' refresh's revised suspension, the ride is now much more comfortable and refined than its predecessor. The RWD configuration offers a pure and engaging driving feel on a twisty road, complemented by Tesla's seamless one-pedal regenerative braking.

Range, Battery & Charging

This is the marathon runner of the range. Its 75 kWh usable battery pack delivers an impressive real-world range of 576 km, as calculated by Green Cars Compare, with an efficiency of 7.68 km/kWh. When it’s time to plug in, it’s a seriously rapid affair. Hook it up to a V3 or V4 Supercharger via its CCS Type 2 port, and it can slurp up power at a blistering 250 kW. For home charging, the standard 11 kW on-board AC charger can replenish the battery fully overnight in around 8 hours.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla doesn't mess about with safety, and the Model 3 boasts a top-tier five-star Euro NCAP rating. Every car comes standard with 'Autopilot,' a suite of driver aids including excellent adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist that makes motorway driving a doddle. A comprehensive set of active safety features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring is also included. For more tricks, you can opt for the 'Enhanced Autopilot' or 'Full Self-Driving Capability' packages, which add features like automatic lane changes and summon.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla keeps ownership impressively simple. The basic vehicle warranty provides coverage for 4 years or 80,000 km, whichever comes first. The all-important battery and drive unit are covered for a whopping 8 years or 192,000 km, with Tesla guaranteeing at least 70% battery capacity retention over that period. There are no pricey mandatory annual services to worry about; the car simply tells you when specific items, like the cabin air filter or brake fluid, need attention, helping to keep running costs down.