Skip advert
Advertisement

Tesla Model 3 review – MPG and running costs

The cost of running a Model 3 is dependent on whether you can charge at home, but the Supercharger network does bring added convenience

Evo rating

Its relatively low weight (for an EV) and reworked aerodynamics mean that the Model 3 is one of the more efficient electric cars available. Tesla quotes an official energy consumption figure of 4.7miles/kWh for the single motor version, which compares favourably against the BMW i4 eDrive35 (3.9miles/kWh) and Polestar 2 Long range Single motor (4.1miles/kWh).

Advertisement - Article continues below

Tesla's Supercharger network remains a key draw of Model 3 ownership, although it's worth noting that owners of other cars can also sign up to use the service. When plugging in at home, the Model 3 doesn't offer vehicle-to-grid functionality to reduce charging costs and sell energy back to the grid at peak times, but Tesla is tipped to offer this feature from next year.

Actual running costs will still be remarkably low considering the performance though, and maintenance will also be low thanks to the electric motor’s lack of moving parts. Peel apart the innards of an AMG hot-V V8 and you’ll realise how simple an electric motor is in comparison – something that’s surely in the Tesla’s favour in the long run, regardless of actual build quality.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

£15k off Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio super SUV
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
News

£15k off Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio super SUV

If you have to have an SUV, a Stelvio QV is acceptable. Now it's being heavily discounted.
8 Jul 2025
MST Mk1 Sports is a more affordable less extreme Ford Escort recreation
MST Ford Escort front
News

MST Mk1 Sports is a more affordable less extreme Ford Escort recreation

Costing a tenth of most made-new classics, the MST Mk1 Sports is comparatively accessible
8 Jul 2025
Mini JCW 2025 review – too feisty for its own good
Mini JCW – front
Reviews

Mini JCW 2025 review – too feisty for its own good

The petrol-powered JCW lives on – for now. But in its latest incarnation, has this supermini survivor become too hardcore?
6 Jul 2025