Tesla Model 3 seemed like the perfect family vehicle even before it was released. Does the most affordable Tesla have all your family's needs?
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What are the pros and cons of the Tesla Model 3 for a family car?
Pros | Cons |
The safest vehicle on the road | The most affordable option |
Energy costs are low | Has no spare tire or run-flats |
Long-term maintenance costs are low | Limited cargo space |
Autopilot can be added to your website. | Not suitable for booster seats or car seats |
Updates to software automatically | Enter and start using an App |
App-based Entry, Start and Air | Rear doors without child locks |
4 USB ports | Large Center Screen |
There are different options available | Autopilot can be dangerous |
Google Maps is included | 5 Passenger capacity |
Low ranges can be problematic |
The Tesla Model 3 may be the most affordable car in the line-up, but it has some pros and cons as a family vehicle. We'll look at the pros and the cons in more detail to see if you and your family are right for the Tesla Model 3.
The Tesla Model 3: the perfect family car?
Tesla Model 3 was designed to satisfy the huge interest in electric vehicles. The Tesla Model 3 was designed to be the most affordable model in the Tesla lineup, without compromising on any of the features that made Tesla so popular.
The Tesla Model 3 was priced in the middle of the luxury sedan range, so it competed against smaller BMWs and Audis. It is a good car for small families, as it has amazing safety ratings and low maintenance costs.
Tesla Model 3 has its own pros and cons. Depending on where you are in the world, an all-electric vehicle can be frightening. Add to that the fact that most electric cars have a limited cargo capacity, are unable to carry many passengers, and come with seats that don't fit boosters or car seats.
The Tesla Model 3 may be the right car for you, but it depends on a number of factors. Your family size, your daily requirements, and where you live all play a role in whether this car will work for you. Find out about the pros, and cons, of the Tesla Model 3
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First, what makes a great family car?
The right car can solve many problems. When you are looking for a car to buy for your family, safety is a top priority. Each family is different.
You need to know what you want before you start looking at cars. Doing research will help you if you are looking for cargo space, cabin room, or even just a bunch of bells and whistles.
What makes Teslas so great?
What makes Teslas so desirable? Tesla's design was revolutionary when it first hit the market. The design is sleek and modern, similar to luxury cars in the same price range. Tesla is the only manufacturer of electric vehicles. Many consumers want to go green.
The idea of driving a car that doesn't require you to fill up with gas is appealing to many people. But you don't lose any power compared to a fuel-powered vehicle.
Auto-pilot and charging your vehicle to restore power are also benefits that consumers find appealing. Combining this with automatic updates, you can have a car that requires almost no maintenance.
The Tesla Model 3 has many advantages
Since its release, the Tesla Model 3 is one of most sought after cars. The Model 3 offers many of the same benefits as the other Tesla models, but at a lower price.
It has the highest safety rating among all vehicles
In 2018, the Tesla Model 3 was awarded the lowest injury probability in any vehicle ever tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many families are interested in adding it to their garage because it's the safest vehicle ever made.
It has now become the new standard for safety, with five-star ratings in all categories and subcategories. The report also includes rollover, front and side crashes. While you can't be 100% safe in any vehicle, the Tesla Model 3 is less likely to cause an accident.
Tesla Model 3 was designed with safety as a priority. The car was designed with the weight of all its components in its center of gravity. The battery is also protected. It has a strong passenger compartment. The vehicle is designed to evenly distribute pressure four times the weight of its own body. It also has airbags that are shaped to fit the human anatomy to reduce injury risks.
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Tesla Model 3 Is An Energy Efficient Vehicle
It is the best feature of the Tesla Model 3 that it can go 141 miles on the energy of one gallon gasoline. The Tesla Model 3 is the most efficient electric sedan on the market. Tesla uses 20% less batteries than other cars to cover the same distance. This means you save 20%.
Tesla Model 3 also offers a lot of environmental benefits. The Tesla Model 3 reduces emissions into the atmosphere. Even though your Tesla still burns fossil fuels at the end of the day, it converts that energy into progress.
Maintenance costs are much lower than a traditional car
The Tesla Model 3 will be your best choice if you are looking for a low-maintenance car. Tesla has actually reduced the services recommended to new owners, because they haven't done anything with their cars. Many mechanics aren't familiar with Teslas.
For those who prefer to maintain their cars themselves, the cost of maintenance will be less than $1,000 over the course of four years. Maintenance costs for a Honda Accord are 75% less over a 5-year period compared to a Honda Accord. This is because the Honda Accord is one of most reliable cars.
You can select Autopilot for a smoother driving experience
The autopilot feature is one of the main attractions of Tesla cars. Insurance Institute of Highway Safety said the feature leads to less physical damage as well as fewer injury claims. Tesla has continued to improve the response time of the system since the tests.
The software was designed to make you a better driver. It is not fully autonomous but it can assist you in steering, breaking, and accelerating within the lane that you are driving. It can also monitor cars in your lane, road conditions and any other issues that might arise while you are driving.
This is especially useful if you are driving with family. Even pets and children can distract you while driving and keep you from fully noticing what's going on. Tesla Autopilot will help you keep your family safe on the road.
Automatic Software Updates Put Your Worries to Rest
Owning a Tesla can be easy, even if you are not tech-savvy. The maintenance of a Tesla Model 3 is easy. Updating the software is also easier than with any other vehicle.
Tesla sends updates to your software over Wi-Fi. Tesla can enhance or add features to your car, without having to visit the dealer.
You can start your car and enter the key code from your phone
Tesla's Keyless Driver feature eliminates the need for a key fob. Keyless Driver eliminates the need for an external key fob. Open the app and enter your password to get started.
The app can also be used to turn on your air conditioning remotely. This only works for 30 minutes, and the settings will return to manual when you get in your vehicle. If you live in a warm climate, this is a great benefit!
Charge your devices with ease using four USB ports
Everyone seems to be charging their phones. Tesla Model 3 has four charging ports. Two ports are located on the console and two others on the rear, for passengers. The USB cord can be shared by all members of the family.
The two ports on the front of the device can be used to charge the phone using a wired system, or wirelessly with a charging pad. Tesla Model 3 has its own charging pad, which you can also purchase. The charging pad can also be used to store USB flash drives and external SSDs for TeslaCam and Sentry Mode recordings.
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There are different versions depending on what you're looking for
Tesla Model 3's base version starts at $35,000 The only color available is black. For an additional cost, you can choose other colors. The price can range from $1500 up to $2500 depending on what color you select.
Standard Range Plus Model is available for $2,000 extra and gives you 20 more miles. It also reduces the time required to reach 60mph. The heated 12-way front power seats are also included, as well as a nicer interior and seats. The package includes upgraded audio, smartphone docks and LED fog lights.
The Tesla Model 3's range increases to 264mph starting at $40,000. It also speeds up the 0-60. Your kids will also love the rear heated seats, 14 speaker audio system, streaming media and music, and internet browser. Navigation features include a satellite view, live traffic reports and a fourteen speaker audio system.
You can get 325 miles of range for $43,000. Dual Motor All-Vehicle Long Range Mode starts at $47,000 but drops to 310 miles. However, the take-off time is faster and both versions have premium interiors.
Next up, the Dual Motor Performance model costs $58,000. The mileage is the same as that of the Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive Long Range, which is 310. The 0-60 time is reduced by almost half. The car also has a lower suspension, improved brakes, larger wheels and a top-speed of 155mph.
There are also a few other options. Choose from 19-inch wheels and the interior color, or even add features to your car. If you choose to order Autopilot (one of the most requested features on Tesla cars), you will pay an additional $3,000 or $4,000 depending on when you would like it. Autopilot, automated park, and the ability to summon the car are all included.
Autopilot will also be available in a version for $5,000 that can respond to stop signs, traffic lights and other road signs.
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Google Maps are already installed on the Tesla Model 3.
Google Maps is used to provide navigation for the Tesla Model 3. Although the turn-by-turn instructions may differ, the navigation remains excellent. Tesla drivers feel confident using their navigation system in urban environments.
Voice search is available, as well as typed searches. You can also save locations so that you can choose from the places you visit frequently. It's great for families, because you can keep your focus on the road. If your kids have many after-school activities, you can save the location so you know exactly where you are going.
Cons of Tesla Model 3
Even though the Tesla Model 3 looks great, it has some drawbacks that may not make it a great family car. Let's discuss the cons of owning this affordable Tesla. It may be fun to use, stylish, and offer some benefits.
It is not the most affordable option for a base version
Tesla Model 3 can start at $35,000. However, it can reach up to $60,000 for the exact same car. The Tesla Model 3 has some great benefits, but it is not suitable for a family vehicle.
You can get larger cars for a similar price that have more space to accommodate you, your family and whatever activities you enjoy. You should also be aware that some of the features you want may come at an additional cost.
The vehicle does not come with run-flat tires or spare tires
The Tesla Model 3 does not come with a spare or run-flat tires. This is one of its biggest cons. For the price, most people are used to cars without flat tires.
Many cars don't have them because they add a lot of weight and take up a lot of space in a vehicle that doesn't already have much. This could result in a significant delay if your tire goes flat while you are traveling.
Cargo Space is Not Ideal for Families
Tesla claims that the Tesla Model 3 offers a cargo capacity of 15 cubic feet. This is comparable to the Honda Civic. It has two trunks, one in the front and another in the back. Both of these combined equal 15 cubic feet. This may not work for you if you want to transport larger items in your car.
When compared to a family crossover such as the Honda CR-V it has a 39cu foot storage capacity that can be increased to 76cu feet if you fold down the rear seats. The Tesla Model 3 is a very small vehicle, which makes it difficult to travel in.
You may have trouble fitting everything into the car if you are trying to fit large strollers, small bikes, multiple suitcases or other items.
The back seats are not the best for car seats or booster seats
The Tesla Model 3 is comparable to a midsize sedan. The rear seats are not always rated perfectly for car seats or booster seats. The stiff upholstery makes it difficult to secure the seat.
The fixed headrest also caused some problems, as it pushed the car seat backwards. This is not the way they are supposed to be seated. The booster seats were also not fitting properly on the seats. Children may have difficulty finding and using the buckles.
App-based entry and start could also be a problem
The Keyless Driver can be a problem, even though the idea is wonderful. The keyless feature is not available in places where there is no or little cellular service.
When you are traveling with family, relying on your phone to operate and open your car is not the best idea. You should always carry your key fob around with you. It's not a good idea to lock your children in the car.
Rear doors do not have child-lock settings
On the Tesla Model 3 you can choose the door that you want to lock, but you cannot select which one. You'll have to reach for the touchscreen if you accidentally close your door or don't close it all the way.
This can be an annoying setting, since many parents prefer to have their child sit at the back. This setting is necessary for younger children because the way to open the door is by pressing the button. Kids love buttons.
The large screen in the center could be a distraction
You may think that the screen on the Tesla Model 3 is an incredible benefit, but you might be surprised to learn that many owners find it distracting. This screen is distracting because you can control your entire car from it. It can be dangerous to look away from the road for even a few seconds.
Although the idea of minimalism is appealing, using a screen to operate your car is not for everyone. The giant screen at the center of the car is used for everything, from turning down the air conditioning to opening the glove box. The learning curve can also be steep for people who have been used to a traditional dash.
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Using auto-pilot could be a huge risk
Contrary to popular opinion, the Tesla Model 3 doesn't come with Autopilot. Autopilot will cost between $3,000 and $5,000, as we have mentioned in our list of options. You're still technically in control of the car and its actions, so it's not a cost you need.
Autopilot does not make the car drive itself. It is a good addition to the hardware, but you must still actively participate in driving. Although it can be beneficial to you, you shouldn't rely solely on the machine to keep your family and yourself safe.
The 5 passenger capacity could limit the number of families that can use it
Many have questioned if this car really meets the needs of today's families, despite the fact that it was advertised as a perfect family vehicle. Safety is a major selling point for most families. However, the size of the car can turn off some buyers.
Families are much larger than they were in the past. Tesla Model 3 can only hold five passengers, which is a limitation for families with multiple children and even dogs. You may have experienced the discomfort of putting five passengers in a midrange sedan on a road trip with your family.
This space will be further reduced if you use a car seat or kennels. It can also seriously impact the amount of cargo that you are able carry. This Tesla does not have enough space to fit some luggage inside the cabin.
Low distance ranges can cause serious problems
Tesla Model 3 currently has the highest mileage on city and highways in the electric market, at 250. The range of the Tesla Model 3 can change depending on your driving habits, where you are driving and when you drive. This is the highest available, but you run the risk running out of fuel on a long trip.
You may need to stop on your way to your destination to charge your vehicle. This can be a negative because it adds extra time to your journey that you might not have.
You're now adding to the worry of driving, the range and distance your car is capable of traveling. You don't need to worry about the lower range of a conventional vehicle or not being able to find a charging station where you live or travel.
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What is the Tesla Model 3 perfect for families?
The Tesla Model 3 is a great option for those with a smaller family who live in an urban area. You're less likely than ever to have charging issues with it. It has an amazing safety rating. If you have between one and two children, you will have enough room and save money on gas and maintenance. This car would make a wonderful second vehicle for a family.
The Tesla Model 3 has some limitations that may not be suitable for all families. Larger families may be discouraged from buying the Tesla Model 3 because of its limited storage and passenger capacity. You should also consider the high price, actual range and charging stations before buying.
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