Tesla Model 3 Highland: 5,000 Miles Later
Maturity, refinement, and a few controversial sacrifices.
The original Tesla Model 3 changed the world. It proved that an EV could be cool, fast, and relatively affordable. But by 2023, the competition had caught up. The "Highland" refresh was Tesla's answer to the Ioniq 6 and the BYDs of the world. After spending extensive time behind the wheel, it's clear that this is a better vehicle in almost every measurable way—though it asks for some big compromises in ergonomics.
The Silence of the Cabin
The biggest complaint about the old Model 3 was road noise. At 70 mph, it was loud enough to be tiring on long trips. Highland addresses this with **360-degree acoustic glass**. Every window is double-paned. The result? A 20% reduction in wind noise and a cabin that feels remarkably similar to a Mercedes C-Class in its serenity.
Ride Quality Reimagined
Old Teslas were stiff. They handled well but crashed over potholes. The new suspension features **frequency-selective damping** and softer bushings. It no longer skips over mid-corner bumps; it absorbs them. It’s still not a "cloud" like an Air Suspension Mercedes, but it’s no longer punishing.
The Controversy: Removing the Stalks
Tesla removed the turn signal stalks and the gear shifter. You now indicate using buttons on the steering wheel, and you shift gears using the touchscreen. Is it a dealbreaker? For 95% of driving, it's fine. But in **European roundabouts** or when parallel parking quickly, it feels like a step backward for the sake of minimalism. It's a choice made by accountants, not by drivers.
Efficiency King
The Model 3 Long Range remains the efficiency benchmark. With a drag coefficient of just 0.219, it cuts through the air like a knife. In our testing, it reliably hits 4.0 mi/kWh at highway speeds—a feat most competitors still can't match.
Interior and Tech
The materials have been upgraded. Gone are the creaky plastics. There is wrap-around ambient lighting and a new **rear entertainment screen** for kids to watch YouTube or play games. The audio system, always a Tesla strong suit, has been upgraded to 17 speakers and sounds phenomenal.
Should You Buy One?
If you have access to the **Tesla Supercharger network**, the Model 3 is still the easiest "one-car solution" in the EV world. The reliability of the infrastructure combined with the car's efficiency makes it the logical choice. However, if you hate touchscreen-only controls, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 or BMW i4 might be better for your sanity.
Cross-shop checklist
- Charging access: No home charging? Compare against an Ioniq 6 lease with the 45W lease credit.
- Ride vs noise: If you prioritize quiet, Highland beats the Polestar 2; if you want buttons, Polestar wins.
- Tax credit: LR AWD currently qualifies; RWD may not—confirm on fueleconomy.gov the week you buy.
Run a head-to-head in our Compare tool against your shortlist, then sanity-check energy costs in the savings calculator with your real commute.
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