2025 Tesla Model 3 "Highland" Review
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 Long Range is Tesla’s updated midsize sedan, and it continues to cement the company’s position as a leader in the EV market. With significant upgrades to its design, comfort, and technology, it’s clear Tesla has listened to consumer feedback about the Model 3 while continuing to innovate.
Called “Highland” among the Teslarati, the revised Model 3 continues to deliver on some of the things that made it so successful when it launched originally in 2017. However, no vehicle is perfect, and the Model 3 Highland has its quirks. Most of them are new quirks, unfortunately.
We recently spent some quality time with the Long Range version of the new Model 3. This review dives into the car’s strengths and weaknesses, particularly through the lens of a real-world driving experience.
Model 3 Performance and Efficiency
When it comes to driving dynamics, the Model 3 Highland Long Range delivers a balanced experience. The car’s acceleration remains instant and quick. Overall, the handling is still quick and feels sporty, but you also get a much softer and more comfortable ride than the previous generation Model 3.
While not as aggressive as the performance variant, this Long Range model still impresses, especially at highway speeds, where it feels more refined and definitely more comfortable, than earlier iterations. Handling is crisp, although there’s slightly more body roll than its predecessor – a fair tradeoff for the improved ride comfort. Despite this, the Model 3 remains fun and agile, even on its stock 18-inch eco-friendly tires.
Efficiency is another hallmark of the Model 3. Over 170 miles of varied driving, the car I test-drove averaged 223 Wh/mi, which is highly efficient for its size and performance. Real-world range also exceeds expectations, with some tests achieving approximately 365 miles at highway speeds, beating its EPA range estimate. Tesla’s aerodynamic improvements in this refresh contribute significantly to its efficiency.
Visibility, however, is a minor letdown. The large A-pillars can obstruct the view, particularly when navigating tight turns or roundabouts. While many modern cars face similar issues due to trying to hit high safety ratings, it’s an occasionally noticeable drawback for an otherwise excellent driving experience.
Model 3 Highland: Comfort and Practicality Improvements
Tesla has made notable strides in improving cabin comfort with this refresh. The seats are a standout feature, offering ventilation and heating as standard. They’re more supportive than before, making long road trips feel effortless. Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control is another area where the updated Model 3 Highland excels – highway drives are whisper-quiet, adding to the car’s “spa-like” serenity.
For new EV drivers, the transition from combustion vehicles is relatively seamless. Tesla’s intuitive infotainment system and app integration simplify the learning curve. However, this generation’s lack of traditional stalks for turn signals and gear shifting might catch some users off guard.
It’s an adjustment, especially when navigating cities like Bend, Oregon, which boasts over 50 roundabouts. After some use, most drivers will likely adapt quickly, but I know a couple of people who say the lack of conventional turn signals is a deal-breaker for them, even though they love the car otherwise. (Fortunately, if it is an issue, the aftermarket is now offering options to address this issue.)
While there are now more options and consistently new entrants in the space, charging infrastructure remains a Tesla stronghold. The Supercharging network still provides the most reliable charging across the country. However, it’s disappointing that Tesla no longer includes an home charger with the car, adding an extra expense for buyers who need one. While setting up home charging is pretty straightforward, this omission feels like a misstep – but I also understand that for many drivers, they may be onto their second (or beyond) Tesla and may already have a charger.
Tesla Model 3 Design and Customization
The exterior of the Model 3, from the sides, and to a lesser extent, the back, remains mostly the same. Because of this, it doesn’t stand out too much on the road. The front of the car has been updated the most, and it makes the design less clunky and appear more modern and aggressive across all trim levels.
It’s more of a safe, and less divisive, design than some of Tesla’s other products – and while some might call it more boring, I think it is one of the better-looking sedans in its class. Many similarly-sized sedans have become very busy, with complex front ends and lots of plastic bits all around. This seems like a design that is just what is needed – and nothing more. Once again, some might think it’s more minimalist or even more sterile; however, these updates are also aerodynamic improvements that enhance efficiency as well.
Customization, however, leaves something to be desired. Tesla offers very limited color and trim options, with the absence of green being a glaring omission for those seeking unique personalization. The Highland looks great in its available shades, but expanding the palette would make the car more appealing to style-conscious buyers.
Technology and Safety Features in the Model 3 Highland
Tesla continues to set the benchmark for in-car software. The infotainment system is responsive and intuitive, with frequent over-the-air updates that keep the car feeling fresh. Even while writing this, Tesla sent over its “winter holiday” software update, adding all sorts of new functionality like visual weather patterns on-screen, to adding Apple Watch integration, to better route planning, and more. The accompanying Tesla smartphone app is equally impressive, offering remote control, charging management, trip planning and even the key to your car – all seamlessly integrated into the ownership experience.
On the technology front, the Highland boasts advanced driver-assist features, including Tesla’s so-called Autopilot system. While not perfect, it remains a very capable driver assistance system, providing lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, and automatic lane changes. Just don’t think it can drive the car without you paying attention behind the wheel.
Safety is a strong suit as well. The Model 3 has consistently earned high safety ratings, thanks to its robust structure and suite of passive and active safety features. That said, the visibility issues stemming from the A-pillars detract from the overall safety experience.
Tesla Ownership Costs
Tesla’s value proposition remains strong, especially when considering currently available federal and state incentives for EV buyers. The Model 3 Long Range offers a host of premium features – ventilated seats, a stellar sound system, and advanced technology – at a competitive price point, even before incentives.
Maintenance costs are another advantage. With fewer moving parts than traditional vehicles, all EVs require less upkeep. Battery warranties also provide peace of mind, covering degradation and ensuring long-term usability.
Conclusion: Building on Tesla’s Success
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 Highland Long Range is a remarkable vehicle that builds on the success of the original vehicle while addressing many of its shortcomings. Its efficiency, comfort, and technology make it a standout choice in not just the EV market, but among all new cars on sale.
While quirks like the removal of control stalks, limited customization options, and the omission of standard charging equipment slightly dampen the overall experience, it’s still a great vehicle and one of my top recommendations for car buyers. It’s so good, I even recently bought one when we needed to get another car.
For buyers seeking a refined, efficient, and tech-forward EV, the Model 3 Highland Long Range is hard to beat. Whether you’re a first-time EV owner or a Tesla loyalist, this car offers a compelling mix of performance, practicality, and value that few competitors can match.
*All mileage claims are EPA estimated.
