Tesla has made the Model 3 a better value for 2019 by dropping the price on all three of the variants listed below by $2000. The Model 3 Performance also now comes standard with the the previously optional Performance Upgrade package, which includes 20-inch wheels with summer tires, upgraded brakes, a carbon-fiber spoiler, aluminum pedal trim, a lowered suspension, and a 10-mph increase in top speed (to 155 mph).
Pros Quick acceleration and nimble handling, real-world-usable driving range, lots of future-is-now technology.
Cons More affordable variant may never arrive, driving range doesn't hold up on the highway, stark interior layout.
Pros Explosive acceleration at any speed Class leading in-car technology and driver assistance systems Easy to drive with established charging infrastructure availability
Cons Charging infrastructure in Australia lags behind the USA Some build quality issues Handling not quite as sharp as we expected
A less expensive battery pack is expected to debut later in the year. Aside from a few ergonomic issues, the 2019 Tesla Model 3 is one of the best electric vehicles on sale today.
Pros Tesla prestige at a lower price Class-leading performance and handling More technologically advanced than rivals Supercharger network access for long-distance driving
Cons Touchscreen interface design can lead to driver distraction No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support Limited cargo capacity and interior storage
For 2021, Audi introduces a more affordable base model that features the Premium designation. Available on both the regular and Sportback e-tron, it costs about $9000 less than the mid-level Premium Plus. It can also be equipped with the Convenience Plus package, which includes driver assists such as adaptive cruise control. Audi also improves the e-tron's available battery capacity and efficiency. The regular e-tron now has an estimated driving range of 222 miles—18 more than its predecessor.
Pros Whisper-quiet operation, luxurious state-of-the-art cabin, tows up to 4000 pounds.
Cons Other luxury EVs have more range, not very engaging behind the wheel, none of the flashiness exhibited by rivals
Pros Doesn’t look like an electric car, interior design, efficiency modes
Cons Doesn’t look like an electric car, electric mirrors an acquired taste
For 2021 New entry-level Premium trim.Launch Edition model no longer available.
Pros Smooth and decisive acceleration Well-executed driver assistance systems Healthy list of standard safety and luxury features
Cons Complex touchscreen interface EPA-estimated range is merely adequate compared to others More expensive and less practical than the standard e-tron
