Tesla’s smallest model is no stranger to the electric vehicle market. However, now that it has been around for a while, there are seven model years to consider. Don’t fret, though; the three best Model 3 model years could be one of the best EVs for used car shoppers. Check out the baby Teslas with the least depreciation and best value, like the 2021 and 2019 Tesla Model 3. 

How fast does a Tesla Model 3 depreciate?

The Tesla Model 3 depreciates slowly compared to other electric vehicles. According to CarEdge, even the first iterations of Tesla’s smallest EV have well over 50% value retention. However, not every model year depreciates at the same rate. For instance, the 2020 model year lost over 12.22% of its new price, while the 2018 Model 3 lost around 3.02% of its value from year to year.  

Still, CarEdge awarded the 2021, 2019, and 2018 Tesla Model 3 top accolades for overall value. The 2021 model earned the “Best” rating. Furthermore, the 2019 and 2018 models earned “Better” ratings, and the remaining two years, including the original 2017 model, have “Good” ratings. Moreover, with consecutive Top Safety Pick+ ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 2019, 2020, and 2021 Tesla Model 3 is a literal safe bet.

Is the 2021 Tesla Model 3 worth it?

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 is the best overall value of the model’s years. Of its original value, CarEdge says potential owners can expect to pay 88% of the new price on average. As a result, the market average is around $52,850 for a used example. Moreover, the 2021 model year boasts about 92% of its useful life remaining. 

Potential owners who want to save on a used Model 3 should consider the 2021 model year for overall value and potential lifespan. Better yet, the Department of Energy says a 2021 Model 3 could save upwards of $6,750 compared to the average 2023 ICE vehicle.

How much does a 2019 Tesla Model 3 cost?

The 2019 Tesla Model 3 is one of the best years for the EV in terms of value retention. For instance, potential owners should expect around 71.88% of the original $52,660 starting price. Also, with an estimated annual maintenance cost of about $281, the Model 3 is a solid prospect for owners who want to avoid expensive-to-run vehicles.

Moreover, the Model 3’s popularity speaks for itself; iSeeCars says recent Model 3s are the third most-driven EVs in America, with an average of 9,960 miles driven per year. As a result, the Model 3 is a good prospect for annual savings in maintenance as well as fuel costs.  

How much does a used 2018 Tesla Model 3 cost?

The 2018 Model 3 is another CarEdge pick for best value. Further, the 2018 model year is about 71.58% of the original cost. As such, the 2018 iteration earned a “Better” rating in a “Good, Better, Best” rating system for overall value. Better yet, like the other model years, the 2018 Tesla model has a low center of gravity that actively prevents rollovers, making it a safe choice and a valuable option. 

Does the Model 3 hold its value?

The Tesla Model 3 holds its value well compared to other vehicles on the market. For instance, the 2018 through 2021 models increased in resale value as of early 2022. According to Cars.com, used examples from this period sold for as much as a 12% increase in resale value. While that means getting your hands on a used Model 3 could be more expensive than other used EV options, it will likely hold its value for eventual resale or trade-in. 

Do you like the Model 3? Tell us in the comments below!