Differences Between the Tesla Model 3 RWD (Previously the SR+) and Long Range - Am I Missing Out?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

►Big Update as of 11/2/2021 - The Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus is now listed as the Tesla Model 3 under "Rear-Wheel Drive" on Tesla's website, and comes with a 5.8 sec 0-60 mph time now (previously 5.3 sec 0-60 mph), along with 272 miles of range with the 18" aero wheels and 267 miles of range with the 19" sport wheels (both previously listed for 262 miles of range). The starting price of the Tesla Model 3 RWD is also $43,990 now after two back-to-back $2,000 price increases in October 2021. ►Price update as of 11/4/2021 - The starting price of the Tesla Model 3 RWD is now $44,990 while the starting price of the Tesla Model 3 Long Range is now $50,990 after a $1,000 price increase for all of the Tesla Model 3 trims (starting price of the Tesla Model 3 Performance is now $58,990). Differences I missed in my video: 1: Tesla Model 3 RWD delivered in the UK will come with floor mats. Thanks to Kelvin for pointing this out. 2: Tesla Model 3 RWD will not come with the heated steering wheel option while the LR and Performance models will. Thanks to Zain and Kam007 for pointing this out. 3: Thanks to Clyde and Sean for pointing out another difference which is the acceleration boost option for the long range model where you can pay $2,000 after delivery to reduce the long range's 0 to 60 mph time down to 3.7 seconds! 4: Depending on when and where you ordered a Tesla Model 3 RWD, you may get the Tesla Model 3 RWD with the LFP battery. However, it does look like all Tesla Model 3 RWD ordered going forward will come with the LFP battery. 5: Thanks to kickflip215 for pointing out that the premium connectivity trial for all Tesla Model 3s ordered on or after 10/15/2021 will be 30 days starting from the delivery date. 6: Another thanks to kickflip215 for pointing out that the 2022 versions of the entry Tesla Model 3 RWD (produced after 11/1/2021) will now come included with the heated steering wheel and rear heated seats activated. - Tesla Model 3 RWD current price - $44,990 ($1,000 increase, was $43,990 before 11/4/2021, was $41,990 before 10/24/2021, and was $39,990 before 10/7/2021) - Tesla Model 3 LR current price - $50,990 ($1,000 increase, was $49,990 before 11/4/2021) The starting price difference between the two models is now $6,000 down from $8,000 before 10/24/2021 and down from $10,000 before 10/7/2021. - Estimated delivery dates as of 11/4/2021: Tesla Model 3 RWD - May or September 2022 depending on configuration Tesla Model 3 LR - December 2021 Looks like the Tesla Model 3 RWD are selling like hotcakes and Tesla is doing its best to steer buyers to its other models. I still think the Tesla Model 3 RWD is a value at this price point especially if you don't need the extra range or AWD that comes with the LR. But I can see a lot more of us lean towards buying a LR now with the more palatable $6,000 price difference along with the increased delays in Tesla Model 3 RWD deliveries.

[@montyrogers399]

Kind of wondering if Tesla is pushing those dates out on the m3+ just so more people go for the more profitable long range for a stronger Q4 profit …. Makes sense in my mind .

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@montyrogers399 Yeah definitely. And with that recent $2k price hike on the SR+. Really makes you wonder

[@honesty_-no9he]

LFP is now everywhere !

[@melcragg7814]

The site changed again today. Just called Model 3 now. No SRP reference plus range is showing 305

[@jb3246]

@@CasualTeslaFan I have also seen Model 3 SR+ (LFP) showing up in existing inventory - all have colors, upgraded wheels, and FSD. So definitely high margin for immediate delivery!

[@ronaldgarrison8478]

Looking at this and thinking, it occurs to me that, where a buyer is looking for any criteria that will stick out and make the decision a no-brainer, the seller wants to manage it so that most buyers will be on the fence, and they won't all slide down to one choice or the other. They have substantially opposing incentives.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Great observation. Feels like a constant cat and mouse game

[@nolaholmes62]

By the way Maryland Gets quite a bit of snow. Looked it up in Baltimore gets an average of 18.5 inches of snow every year. Good luck with that rear wheel drive

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks Nola. Might get a little tricky on those days where we get more than a few inches of snow, but I wouldn't be out and about on those days anyways. Just my experience, but I haven't felt the need for AWD/4WD or winter tires after living around the area the last 15 years or so.

[@SENYLA-HOME]

iThis is hilarious, where you keep saying long range is much better but is “non factor for me…” after owning 3 EV’s, I can tell you range is everything on ev. Even if you break it down, typical pricing of AWD $2000, performance $2000, audio $800, fog lights/rear heat/int. lights $600 etc…. Paying $4-5k for extra range is definitely worth it. Unless you never drive outside your town, never take trips, especially never take a sleep over trip with nowhere to charge… most will regret every time, not getting the long range. Not putting your opinion down, you maybe happy with what you have but majority of people regret not buying long range. Need to also consider In long term battery will degrade and lose more range. My opinion, standard range only good for old folks who don’t drive much or bump up the music much. =)

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Naw, you're good. Thanks Mike. You bring up some great points and I agree that the long range is a better car for sure. I haven't felt I needed the extra range yet but like you said, I could totally regret not getting the long range later on. And with the price difference at $6k instead of $10k now, I might have gone for the long range if I had to do it all over again today.

[@zainraza7883]

I think you forgot heated steering wheel in the LR too?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Good catch Zain. Do you know if all the newer M3 LR and performance trims come with the heated steering wheel now? Tried searching on the Tesla site but I couldn't find it listed for some reason.

[@davidlebron7471]

You mentioned the extra $10k not being worth it in your case for the LR. Now that the difference is only $6K, would that have made a difference for you?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Ooh tough choice. I think I would still go for the RWD again for the LFP batteries and since I don't drive as much as I used to, but it's really close. How about you?

[@davidlebron7471]

@@CasualTeslaFan Still torn as I've heard others opine that you should always strive to get as much range as possible.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@davidlebron7471 Ah true I haven't felt the need for longer range yet but there was def a peace of mind that came with the LR while we were traveling around on vacation

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@davidlebron7471 Hi David, someone in the other thread just raised a good point that might help, and it was that folks who get the LR usually don't regret their decision getting the LR over the RWD while there are some who regret not getting the LR after buying a RWD

[@smileandlaughs]

So it seems the 2022 model rwd got reduced efficiency down to 132mpge compared to the 2021 model.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Yup, I'm guessing it's because of the extra weight of the LFP batteries. Got an updated differences video for 2022 here if you wanted to check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHOWgWaIqpmBZ80

[@piyushkanthak1087]

When is the review coming sir?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Hoping to get a review video out soon. Possibly by next week or the week after

[@piyushkanthak1087]

@@CasualTeslaFan I am very excited and happy for you sir

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks Piyush. Really happy with the SR+ so far

[@piyushkanthak1087]

@@CasualTeslaFan that's great, I hope I buy a Tesla in future

[@HelloMadison1000]

Everything is a non factor for you. I bet you want all of those features

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Yeahhh, some of my friends and brothers roasted me for a week for that one. Like dude, you sure that's not gonna be a non-factor for you? Haha but yeah, definitely. I should have been more clear in the video and instead of calling features non-factors for me, I should have said they were features that would be nice to have but not necessarily need in my situation.

[@nolaholmes62]

All wheel drive is a big deal.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

I hear ya. AWD would definitely be nice to have.

[@brijeshthakkar3210]

Great explanation. I have ordered SR+ after watching this video. I heard EV tax bill going to pass. My tesla delivery is in March 2022. Will I be eligible to get tax rebate or discount on that ?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Congrats! And yup, you should still be eligible for the federal tax credit if/when it passes. Here's a link to some other incentives and rebates you might be eligible for depending on where you live. www.tesla.com/support/incentives

[@brijeshthakkar3210]

@@CasualTeslaFan thanks for your reply.

[@AdamSchecter]

Hey bro, I am also in Maryland! Freeland Maryland north of Baltimore. I was expecting a LR in 1 1/2 months but lucked out yesterday and bought a SR+ which I will pick up in Rockville in 9 days!!!!

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Niceee! Yeah the wait times are crazy right now and awesome you can pick one up soon! Which combo did you buy?

[@myTM3RWD]

I think Tesla should really start selling the Model 3 SR + with floor mats because of the price tag. Also, you’re correct about the upgrade cost being way less than $10000, so if the range isn’t a problem, then go SR+ and buy the needed upgrades later after you received your car. That’s what I’ll be do; in fact, I have already purchased a few things. I’m taking delivery between October 18 and November 7. Thanks for sharing bro.😎

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Niceee happy to hear. Gonna be a sweet ride and yeah I definitely agree. The SR+ is an amazing car and I've been enjoying the hell out of the ride every time I step into mine.

[@vindana100]

Postpone your delivery time after 2022 to get tax credit. ($ 7500)

[@jie1379]

Btw long range capable of 3.7 seconds 0-60 if pay $2000 boost package anytime. That changes game

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks Sean! Most definitely and will make sure to add that to the pinned comment so others are aware

[@iljaracen]

Thank you for this review! I like Tesla ! :)

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks so much for watching Ilja! I like Tesla too 😃

[@esk8er900]

Great comparison between the models tho- I can’t shake the feeling the website is intentionally vague or even worse at times

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks Johnny! And for sure. Tesla really makes us dig for info that feels like should be clear on their site

[@mrluck3218]

Car has no wheels… but that’s a non factory for me.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Hahahaha my brothers got me for a week with that one. Yeahhh... that's gonna be a non-factor for me haha

[@plixie1]

Seeing these prices hurt. 10k higher for everything now.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

For sure. The price hikes have been no joke this past year

[@hamtaro13579]

Thank you for bring that up more in detailed. I was worried a bit about the SR before purchase it even after purchased. Now I think SR will be enough for us, and just have few more weeks to wait!

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Nice happy to hear! Gonna be an awesome day when you pick up your SR+! I've really been loving mine so far

[@hamtaro13579]

@@CasualTeslaFan I've actually been waiting for two months already. Did you actually know why it takes so long for now?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@hamtaro13579 Ah seems like a combination of a lot of factors but parts shortages and supply chain disruptions seem to be the main culprits

[@EzDeanFassassi]

Maryland stand up! Nice video man

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks so much! Really appreciate it

[@Francis.Rivers]

Yeah ordered a SR+. It’s cool to have that extra range and 4.2sec, but nah.. id rather not spend 10k more. Its just going to be a daily driver. I just feel like its not worth 10k more esp when it looks identical

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Very nice and for sure. I was thinking the same things and been loving the SR+ so far

[@esk8er900]

I know for most of 2022 the model 3s were nearly impossible to get new or demo’s direct from Tesla - my gf got her 2021 SR+ via 3rd party for a good bit more $ back in August than just buying a new/ demo direct from Tesla & worse yet, could’ve spent less for a LR or even performance pkg. Imho it’s a sweet car and we’re proud to have it, but I truly think $8-10k difference between the models is def worthwhile considering what extras come with it. I feel bad she overpaid for an “inferior” model than if she just waited a month or 2. Now the 2022 demos on Tesla’s website have the enhanced auto pilot, premium sound, fog lights, better performance and often rear heated seats. I even tried to convince her to unlock the rear heated seats but she’s firm on “not spending any more on this car”…. AKA screw Carvana (tho I emphatically warned her but girls want what they want)… my biggest gripe is the sound system & enhanced auto pilot cuz now it’s available on their demo inventory for less than what she paid ugh.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Ah damn I wish Tesla could offer the options to add more features like the premium sound system and fog lights rather than just limit it to a trim level since the cars are custom order anyways. And yeah definitely. It still blows my mind how much used Teslas still go for. Would you happen to know if your gf's SR+ came with the LFP batteries?

[@ken90004]

I feel this video maybe misleading to anyone coming into the EV world. When I was deciding between the SR+ and LR, like you I decided SR+ was enough. Now I sold my 2021 SR+ and picking up a 2022 LR. while I don't drive long distances often, there are occasion. And interstate driving drains the battery much faster than you may think. Lot of factors to understand. For example, I left a SC with est 38% remaining battery when I got home. Plenty extra. That day had strong headwinds and my est went for 38% down to -6%. I had to slow down and drift a semi and turn off my heater. I finally got off the interstate and drove two lane back road. Made it home with 9%. Buy what you can afford. But also buy the bigger battery if you can afford it. Otherwise the day will come when you regret it.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Great points and thanks for sharing Ken. I actually had a similar experience and my range estimate fluctuated a lot during a recent road trip where it projected anywhere from 12% to 24% battery remaining to the next supercharger stop. Range really does depend on a lot of factors that I didn't have to consider with a ICE car like weight, weather, driving conditions, etc. This was the first differences video I made and will do my best to avoid misleading information or anecdotal experience and just present the facts in future differences videos to help others choose the right Tesla for their situation

[@ksmith660]

I've got a SR+ in the UK. It came with mats! I've got a LFP battery and can charge to 100% (262 miles) everyday, so have plenty of range for day to day use...

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Oh nice! Really interesting to see the different features offered based on location. Have you experienced any performance differences or range loss with the LFP battery during the winter at all?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

And thanks for letting me know that the SR+ in the UK come with floor mats! Just updated the description of the video to note that, and pinned your comment so others are aware.

[@ksmith660]

@@CasualTeslaFan I've only had this car for a week so I don't know about winter range. However I live in the south of the UK and the weather doesn't go below zero C more than a few days in the year... Also if it's bad weather I wouldn't drive very far anyway... Before I had a MIU SR+ (NCA battery) and lost ~30% of its range mid winter compared to the summer. But that car didn't have a heat pump...

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@ksmith660 Ah gotcha wow. Crazy to see how much range can be lost. And looks like we experience similar temps and it'll be interesting to see how the LFP batteries hold up with the heat pump this winter

[@zainraza7883]

Yeah same here in the UK had floor mats included, which i wasn’t expecting! Also if you lease the car tesla are giving premium connectivity included so you don’t need to pay for it. Something to do with the fact their system doesn’t allow leasers to pay for it yet.

[@NYRunnerJai]

AWESOME video! just switched to the RWD because of this video! I too live in a mild winter state. Thanks for listing the upgrade costs. I needed that. One thing you should point out too is that the battery degradation is less over time increasing the life of the battery by double for those wanting to keep the car for many years like me :) Thank you! Now if only May would get here. The EDD on the RWD went from October to July but I still have the May EDD of the LR I had previously ordered.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks so much! Will definitely make sure to include the battery degradation differences in future videos. And awesome to hear. Love my RWD and hope they're able to deliver yours soon!

[@dhaynes325]

I ordered the LR Model 3 because I drive about 130 miles round trip 3x per week. The added bonuses for the LR were good since I do not want to add those after market for me.However, I am going to buy all weather floor mats

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Nice that totally makes sense. I recently got the chance to test the LR M3 sound system for an extended period too and it's def on another level

[@nicka2256]

I am not a badge fiend. In fact, maybe i would badge delete a LR or Performance car.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Yeah same. Looks cleaner without the badge.

[@antnam4406]

I ordered LR in the UK and I'm sticking with it. The LR will keep the old battery format and for peace of min with reliability of not running out of power or regular charging.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Good point. I'm definitely gonna keep an eye on my range loss and battery degradation and hopefully having a LFP battery helps

[@Brian_______]

*GOOD VIDEO. SPOT ON! LOVE YOU!*

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks so much Brian! ❤️

[@nicholasthon973]

The audio on the LR is way better than SR+, however the SR+ is very good on its own. LR is like Dolby surround in a theatre vs a good home stereo in the SR+.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Great way to describe it. I definitely have to compare the two again and see if I should upgrade the audio on my SR+.

[@blueeyes75115]

I'm staying clear of any vehicle using NCA battery now that the LFP battery is out. So i went for the RWD even though the extra range would have been nice...long term, the RWD will likely come out better with its LFP battery over time. The RWD is perfectly fine in heavy snow with snow tires...Updating to a LR would be an extra $10,000...no thanks.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Nice yeah I was thinking the same and really thinking about getting the MY with LFP if/when it comes out. Love my RWD so far and still plenty fast too

[@esk8er900]

I think the 2022 LR model runs about $55k for a showroom demo in a variety of colors & sub 7k miles odometer. Considering it’s got more range, better sound, fog lights, enhanced auto pilot and a few other goodies, it’s totally worth looking into. Plus u can keep all weather tires and just get the snow chain kit for $160/pair & they’re legit - I know cuz ours just came. Damn this pandemic & supply chain BS cuz I remember when the 3 SR+ was sub-$40k not so long ago.

[@noesaucedo5937]

I would like to add the additional ambient lighting to my SR+. Any suggestions on how to instal or purchase?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Hi Noe, yeah I'm thinking about adding the additional ambient lighting too and will definitely have to research more. But I was thinking about adding something like this here using the 12 volt outlet in the center console: www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B093GTF2DB/ref=sspa_mw_detail_0?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@josephchiappa4411]

Excellent video I decided RWD

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks and awesome to hear! Love my RWD

[@clydester8108]

Very well done. One other option on the Long Range that isn't on the SR+ is acceleration boost to get the 0-60 down to 3.7s for $2K USD.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks Clyde! Great point. Really good to know and just updated the video description to reflect the acceleration boost option difference.

[@MuscleMan500]

man i thought i decided on the LR until the last minute of the video where you broke down the cost of adding things to the SR+

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Yeah it really is a tough decision. I ended up choosing the RWD but I still get conflicted sometimes haha

[@briang896]

Great video! I rented a 2021 model Y. Loved it. Now looking into getting a model 3. The drive is so smooth and quick acceleration when you need it.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks Brian! And definitely. I haven't driven the Model Y yet but it's been so much fun driving the Model 3.

[@Kickflip215]

New updates for the 2022 rear heated seats are confirmed for free for the SR+ and now all Teslas only have 30 days for connectivity

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks for pointing that out! Would you happen to know if the heated steering wheel and rear heated seats are for all 2022 Model 3 RWD? I was trying to find out more, but so far I've only found the Sawyer Merritt tweet about the updates via his European source.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Just saw the new updates Tesla confirmed on their site. Thanks again for pointing out all those updates and differences! Will def credit you in the pinned comment and future differences videos.

[@penderpartyof2700]

Just bought a LR and it will be here next week!

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Very nice! Gonna be an awesome day!

[@GXKid06]

But now the SR is 44k. With the gap closer to the LR its worth it now for the LR

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Yeah I still think the SR+ is a value at that price point, but that smaller $6,000 price difference is def gonna make it easier to choose the LR over the SR+ now for a lot of us

[@GXKid06]

@@CasualTeslaFan I chose the LR a few days ago right after the price increase. Getting heated steering wheel, more range, faster, awd, heated rear seats, one year of premium connectivity, longer warranty, fog lights (very important for me), and being delivered in December instead of April. Was worth it for me. That and a used standard range 2021 is 50k used.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@GXKid06 That's awesome. Def makes sense. I love my SR+ but not gonna lie, I might have gone for the LR over the SR+ if it was a $6k difference and shorter delivery times back when I ordered

[@alberthwang83]

Hi. Just ordered the 2022 Model 3 SR. Do you know if the additional interior ambient light is absent or now included? Can’t seem to find any info on Tesla’s website…

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Hey hey yup it looks like the additional interior ambient lighting is still absent for the M3 SR RWD for now

[@alberthwang83]

@@CasualTeslaFan Mind pointing me to the source for this info and/or how you were able to confirm? I tried calling a Tesla store and the rep had no clue. LOL! Lastly, with the absence of the fog lights, are the LED strips by the fog lights also missing? Thanks again!

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@alberthwang83 No problem and sure thing! Yeah I'm not sure why Tesla doesn't include this info on their website or in the owner's manual but I did an updated differences video here for 2022, M3 RWD vs. LR at this link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHOWgWaIqpmBZ80 And here's a thread from Tesla Motors Club discussing some recent RWD deliveries and trying to activate the footwell and door pocket lights: teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/2022-rwd-footwell-door-pocket-light-mod.259660/ And yup those LED lights in the strips aren't gonna be there either for the RWD along with the fog lights, so the strips kind of glow orange instead at night because of the amber markers

[@alberthwang83]

@@CasualTeslaFan Thanks a bunch!! My delivery timeframe is late Sept. through Nov., so hoping I get it sooner... lol

[@CasualTeslaFan]

​@@alberthwang83 No problem! And hope they're able to deliver yours soon!

[@briandiaz9653]

Glad I found your channel! You really provide great content ☺️ I live in FL and my SR+ delivery is now sometime in Dec. Can’t wait!! Thanks for all you do!

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thank you so much for the support Brian! Really appreciate it. And the SR+ really is an amazing car and I've been loving mine so far. Hopefully Tesla's able to complete and deliver your SR+ sooner!

[@vindana100]

Postpone your delivery time after 2022 to get tax credit. ($ 7500)

[@tennisjiujitsu]

@@vindana100 I want to order my SR+ soon, should I push it back to January?

[@MrTARIQSs]

The type of battery is a huuuuuge selling point for the RWD model for me since it’s less likely to catch fire in case of a puncture and is much more heat resistant (temps in my country can go up to 120 degrees F / 50 degrees C) and less prone to range loss over time

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thanks Tariq. Great points. Will definitely highlight these LFP battery benefits in an upcoming video

[@Optimisticaboutit]

One of the best I’ve seen so far, nice job!!

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thank you so much Kevin! I really appreciate the support.

[@kam0073]

You did a great job. Thanks. Very helpful.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Thank you Kam. Happy to hear and much appreciated.

[@kam0073]

@@CasualTeslaFan I think there might be one difference you didn’t highlight. I kind of think the steering wheel of the LR model 3 is heated.

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@kam0073 Yup, you're right. I'll make sure to highlight that difference in the pinned comment.

[@viktorstorelv]

Would love to get that upgraded stereo on the Standard Range .. :/

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Yeah for sure. I still think it sounds good, but I'm definitely noticing the lack of bass on some songs now. Thinking about taking the plunge and going for one of the DIY upgrades 🤔

[@viktorstorelv]

@@CasualTeslaFan easy to install? Price?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

@@viktorstorelv www.hautopart.com/product/model3-sr-premium-audio-upgrade/ I'm considering Version A at this link for $521. Not sure how hard it would be to install yet, but looks like it'll def take some time. Maybe one or two days? I'm gonna try a DIY PPF install first and probably go for a DIY speaker upgrade right after. I'll definitely let you know

[@piyushkanthak1087]

Sir, why not consider the Model Y?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

Hey Piyush, price was my main factor and I was looking to get something $50k or less all-in for my first EV.

[@piyushkanthak1087]

@@CasualTeslaFan that's fine, but don't you think the Y more practical?

[@CasualTeslaFan]

​@@piyushkanthak1087 Yeah definitely, especially if you have multiple kids or need the extra space and clearance. Would love to try and do an in-depth comparison between the 3 and Y later on