Tesla Model 3 Mid Range

Overview

The 2020 Tesla Model 3 Mid Range was a bit of a stealthy option, slotting neatly between the entry-level and Long Range versions before it bowed out. Think of it as the smart sweet spot for many, offering a decent whack of range without completely emptying your wallet. While new EU pricing isn't available as this American-made sedan was discontinued and had limited direct EU sales, it packed Tesla's signature tech and punchy performance. Its key appeal was balancing battery size, real-world usability, and that all-important Tesla badge, making it a sought-after find on the used market.

What's New for 2020?

For the 2020 model year, the Model 3 range saw some rolling updates, though the Mid Range trim itself was in its final production phase, having been made from 2018 to 2020. General Model 3 enhancements around this period included minor interior tweaks and software improvements enhancing the user experience. However, specific major upgrades for the short-lived 2020 Mid Range variant were limited as Tesla focused on streamlining its lineup. Buyers got the established, slick Tesla package that had already shaken up the EV world, rather than a raft of brand-new-for-2020 features on this particular trim.

Design & Exterior

The 2020 Model 3 Mid Range rocks Tesla's now-iconic minimalist chic, looking slippery and futuristic even today. Its smooth lines and expansive glass roof give it a premium vibe, setting it apart from shoutier rivals. Dimensions wise, it measures 4695 mm in length, 1850 mm across (sans mirrors), and stands 1445 mm tall, making it perfectly sized for European streets. While not radically different externally from other Model 3s, its understated cool, often rolling on 18-inch aero wheels, made it a handsome beast, proving electric cars can be seriously stylish.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Slide inside the Model 3 Mid Range, and you’re greeted by Tesla’s trademark spartan-yet-sci-fi cabin. Dominated by a massive 15-inch central touchscreen controlling pretty much everything, it’s a tech-lover's dream. Material quality is decent, and there's good space for five passengers. Cargo is a strong suit: a whopping 561 litres in the boot, expanding to 1235 litres with seats down, plus a handy 88-litre frunk for your charging cables or a sneaky takeaway. Forget Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; Tesla’s own slick infotainment system handles navigation, media, and car settings with aplomb.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't let "Mid Range" fool you; this Tesla still packs a proper punch! With its rear-wheel-drive setup powered by a single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, it zips from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 5.5 seconds. That motor churns out 202 kW of power and a meaty 404 Nm of instant torque, making overtakes a doddle. Driving dynamics are classic Tesla: agile, direct steering, and a firm but generally comfortable ride. The regenerative braking is super smooth, allowing for easy one-pedal driving once you’re used to it – proper clever stuff!

Range, Battery & Charging

The Model 3 Mid Range is equipped with a 62 kWh usable battery pack, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 396 km – plenty for most daily grinds and decent road trips. It sips juice efficiently at 6.39 km/kWh. For charging, its 400V architecture supports AC top-ups via a Type 2 port at up to 7.7 kW, meaning a full charge takes roughly 8-9 hours overnight. Find a CCS DC fast charger, and you can ram in electrons at up to a blistering 200 kW, getting you back on the road sharpish!

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla doesn't skimp on safety, and the Model 3 Mid Range is no exception, boasting a top-tier 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard Autopilot is a huge selling point, typically including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to take the strain out of motorway munching. Features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and collision avoidance assists are all part of the package. For those wanting the full tech wizardry, Tesla’s ‘Full Self-Driving Capability’ was often available as a pricey option, adding more advanced summon and navigation-on-autopilot features.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

For European owners, a new Tesla Model 3 typically came with a 4-year/80,000 km basic vehicle warranty. Crucially, the battery and drive unit on the Mid Range were covered for a more generous 8 years or 192,000 km (whichever came first), with a guarantee of at least 70% battery capacity retention. Tesla’s maintenance schedule is famously minimal, with no annual services required – just periodic checks for things like tyre rotation, brake fluid, and cabin air filters. This means fewer trips to the dealer and potentially lower running costs, which is always a win!