4) More Range
While many expected drivetrain updates with the refreshed Model 3, Tesla has kept the same batteries and motors. Surprisingly, the new Model 3 offers more range. The key to this improvement lies in the sleeker exterior design, which enhances aerodynamics significantly. With a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.219 compared to the previous 0.225, the new Model 3 achieves approximately 11% more range on paper.
Officially, the standard range RWD model is rated at 344 miles, while the long-range AWD version offers an impressive 421 miles, according to European WLTP numbers on 18-inch wheels. However, it’s worth noting that WLTP numbers tend to be optimistic. When the new Model 3 arrives in the US, expected EPA ranges for the RWD and AWD versions with 18-inch wheels should be around 300 miles and approximately 370 miles, respectively, marking a significant improvement over the previous Model 3’s ranges of 272 and 333 miles, respectively.
