Since it first debuted in 2017, the Tesla Model 3 has fascinated car enthusiasts. Not only is the Model 3 a part of Tesla’s completely electric car lineup, but it also has the distinction of being Tesla’s most affordable electric vehicle.

Individuals who have purchased earlier versions of this vehicle appreciate how far they can drive on a single charge and the relatively short waiting time for the vehicle to fully charge after each use. If you’re considering adding a brand-new Tesla Model 3 to your garage, it’s likely you think that the most expensive trim option available is the best way to spend your money, but you might want to reconsider. One reviewer feels that the base trim level 2021 Tesla Model 3 provides you with the best value for your money.

What to expect from the Standard Range Tesla Model 3

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 is still part of the first generation but that doesn’t mean this year’s version is an exact replica of the vehicle that first appeared on the roads in 2017.

Tesla made a surprising number of changes to the vehicle which includes adding a rolling stock to the wheels, a redesign of the console, adding charging pads for your wireless phone, tweaking the seat adjustment controls, and more. The final result is a more attractive and more convenient car.

Hands down, the most important change Tesla made was to the Standard Range Tesla Model 3 which is its range. Drivers love the fact that the car’s range has extended a solid 13 miles over the 2020 version. The hope is that this type of range improvement continues until electric cars are finally a valid choice for long-distance drives.

“The Standard Range Plus model, starting just under $40,000, is the best value,” Car and Driver reported after test driving the 2021 Tesla Model 3. They continued:

“Its 263 miles of estimated driving range should be enough for most people, and it comes standard with heated front seats and navigation. If your car usage includes more long-distance drives or frequent commutes, the Long Range model and its 353-mile range may be worth the upgrade.”

How safe is the Tesla Model 3?

One of the first questions many people have after they learn the range of the Tesla Model 3 is that they want to know how safe the vehicle is. Its common knowledge that the vehicle’s overall range is increased by lightening the vehicle’s overall weight which means using lighter materials than what’s traditionally used in a gas-engine vehicle. Many drivers worry that the lighter material won’t provide adequate protection during a crash. 

The 2020 Model 3 was been put through the same tests that all traditional vehicles are subjected to and passed with flying colors. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the vehicle with an overall score a perfect five-star score. The vehicle also received an illustrious Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 

Other available options and trims

There are three different Tesla Model 3 options. While Car and Driver believe the basic trim provides the best value for your dollar, it’s entirely possible that you’ll come to a completely different conclusion.

In addition to the standard range plus, your options include long-range and performance. The Long Range and the Performance both feature all-wheel drive and are equipped with two motors.

This trim should provide you with 322 mph before the next necessary charge. It takes 28.2 hours to go from a 0% battery charge to fully charged. The Performance trim only travels 299 miles before it requires a full battery charge. Built to travel at a top speed of 162 mph, the Performance Tesla Model 3 is built more for speed than distance driving.

According to data collected by Cars Direct, the 2021 Standard Range Tesla Model 3 starts at $39,190. The Long-Range starts at $48,190. The Performance model starts at $48,890. 

Are you planning to make the standard-range 2021 Tesla Model 3 your daily commuter this year?