NEW 2021 Tesla Model 3 v 2020 side by side comparison. What's changed?

Comparing the NEW Model 3 2021 model year facelift directly next to the "old" model - what exactly has changed? All you need to know...
More detailed feature comparison videos to follow including NEW headlights and is the double glazing quieter?
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[@integra8502]

One of the biggest changes is the "heat pump

[@RSEV]

This week I will be doing a mega range test comparison. ALL the model 3’s.... so we’ll see if that heat pump makes a difference

[@blueplanet1048]

@@RSEV heat pump especially makes a good difference in cold climates ( -5 or lower ) , not sure it would make such a big difference in climates above 0

[@maxflight777]

Nissan Leaf has one ... so do most others

[@Ifyoudonttakeitucantfakeit]

It makes a huge difference on dog or camp mode.

[@DJIDroneTravel]

Heat pump would make difference but old car charge faster then the new one 👍

[@VitaliysUnboxing]

No chrome for me! I like the new interior more!

[@brandon6541]

Same!

[@kevinwhite8836]

The chrome is also a hot spot for water marks. It is especially problematic if the car is ceramic coated, as you cannot easily remove water marks. Hopefully the de-chrome will be better.

[@AgistoOico]

Chrome definitely!

[@samjackson6926]

Thanks for pointing out the difficulty getting the wheel covers off. I’ve spent an hour failing to get mine off, cursing all the pre-2021 KZbin videos that say it’s really easy!

[@TJTVI]

This was a fantastic comparison video. Something I’ve been waiting for for quite a while now. However, I do wish you spent just a bit of time going over the aesthetic differences between the aero hub caps. I don’t like the old ones but the subtle differences I’ve seen in pictures make me like the new. I just wanted to see the EXACT differences. You had them right there! 🥺

[@CLxJames]

I cringed every time they opened or closed the doors by using the windows

[@Dr-Asim]

I'm not sure, but I think the seal on the rear hatch has some sort of holes / drain for water. So that water does not collect and fill up and run in the boot when you open the hatch in rainy weather.

[@miickyp]

Remember you can pin lock the glove box now to protect the thumb drive!

[@RSEV]

That’s right. But this is a feature that even older Teslas now have through an over the air update so it’s not something that comes only with the new refreshed Model 3’s

[@badboytilltheend13]

now if someone breaks in the car, they can't take the thumb drive. 2020 they can just take the thumb drive and then you have no proof.

[@Durzel]

A thief is probably going to force it open whether it’s locked or not.

[@user-jt1jv8vl9r]

The data should be stored in the cloud.

[@kevinwhite8836]

@@RSEV correct, but there is no usb slot in the glove box in older models, so a usb drive could be stolen. I seem to remember reading though, that if the alarm is triggered, the footage is sent to Tesla automatically, so you can request it from them. Not sure if this is correct or not? I think the same is true in a car accident. The chances of a thief hanging about to force the glove box open are pretty slim, most are opportunists.

[@WhatTheTesla]

Great video guys. Satin black trim gets my vote! Can't wait for my Model 3 Performance to arrive!

[@RSEV]

We will have one very soon... 😗

[@pablopirineos]

Nice video! Looking forward the night drive comparison. Regards from Spain.

[@jamesbotterill9963]

great video guys, looking forward to seeing the performance model with the new look wheels.

[@RSEV]

Coming soon...

[@purplelizardjelly]

Very helpful. Very in-depth. Thank you.

[@anthonyforbes511]

Chrome all the way! Love the new features of the 2021 M3.....how many guys does it take to change a wheel hub cover ?! Love the anorak level of enthusiasm 😎

[@markgaudie80]

Brilliant vid guys. Really appreciated you doing this. I’ve shared it on the NorthWest EV Owners Group. 👍👍

[@RSEV]

Thanks for sharing!

[@David-bl1bt]

Yes, this is where I discovered it.

[@coss9795]

Yes, I too am very curious about the double glass! I would like a video of you where you make a comparison of the decibels with and without double glazing (unless they have also soundproofed other components). Ciao dall'Italia!

[@RSEV]

We have shot this, and video will come out in next couple of days. subscribe to this channel for updates..

[@Tom55data]

Thank you for the video, I have a 2020 version and think the changes are a good improvement I would prefer the chrome delete myself. It is a shame they have not added the double rubber sealed the doors - ie fit a second silicone rubber seal around the edges of the doors, froot and boot. This is the main thing that gives the door closure a solid sound - and cuts down on wind noise from from around the doors and I found after adding an after-market seal this made a noticeable sound reduction.

[@TeslaModel3Adventures]

Nice succinct video chaps. We're collecting ours from Leeds this coming Saturday 😀 Our current BMW has USB C sockets, which the kids use in the rear to charge their tablets... USB C seems to be the way things are going. We've gone with black... so with the lack of chrome, it's going to look pretty cool. Looking at the rear windows, I'm guessing they are not tinted? If not I think we'll tint them. Last three cars we've had, have had all tinted rears as standard. All the best 👍

[@ianhatten2177]

Good video. I still think the de-chromed look reminds me too much of the old Base model Vauxhalls and Fords, am I getting old? Matte centre console could still get scratched and might be harder to dismantle and wrap to hide the scratches, at least with the gloss you have that option to wrap it afterwards. The heat pump and powered boot are the only things that I would want from the updated car.

[@WoollyCars]

Nice comparison video. 👍

[@gleninman6520]

Thanks for the vid - good comparison. Seems that the removable tray under the centre armrest has been deleted. Has the shape of the space changed?

[@music4life843]

Great video! Could you test whether the new aero caps are compatible with the old 18” wheels?

[@Dennis840209]

Do the accessories fit the 2021 model? Specifically the centre console ones. Thanks.

[@BecauseTesla]

Great comparison!

[@blueplanet1048]

Good reviews thank you looking forward for the noise test in same condition and location. Also the auto dimming heated mirrors is back! Because they took away the auto dimming sides before this model.

[@AlexeiWatson]

Do you think the updated window and door controls (matte and illuminated door graphic) could be installed in to an older model 3 door trim, or are they mounted differently?

[@alexgayer85]

Glad to see the new aero covers are harder to remove. I’ve had two of the old ones fall off while driving. Interested to see if the new covers will attach to the old wheels or if I’d have to buy a whole new set of wheels too?

[@jonesythesuperhero3345]

Can you still feed a cable from underneath to charge a phone if you don’t have wireless charging?

[@deansh8506]

Great video. I like the chrome on a black and blue model 3. De chrome looks good on white and red. Only thing I'm jealous about is the heatpump!

[@RSEV]

Red cars without chrome really look different. See examples on our website under “other services”. Chrome on blue m3s I do prefer I think. 👍

[@deansh8506]

@@RSEV I dare not look at a Red de-chromed Model 3 as this would be my choice now. Too tempting to change it! I'll just settle for my Blue and chrome 😊

[@allenfazer]

Excellent video just the comparison I have been looking for, I will receive my new car in January, I will ceramic coat myself, I plan on using a Carpro orange cutting pad and Carpro fixer compound and polish then coat with Carpro ceramic 3.0 what do you think any suggestions or anything you would change? Any hints of tips to detailing a Tesla model 3. Thanks

[@creepykong1254]

Thanks for comparison. Can we go into more detail? Can you compare battery packs and motor details? I subscribed! Thanks a lot!

[@kenominix8210]

Hi, good video!... you missed something. "Heated steering" now on the refreshed 2021 & above models. Very essential for people like us living in colder regions (Alberta, Canada).

[@nickieredshaw7835]

Thanks for another great video update. Chrome outside is best and new centre is best in my opinion

[@SROBSTAD]

Hi! Do you know if the suspension in the new 2021 refresh model gives the car a smoother ride, compared to the 2019, or is it the same?

[@robe7949]

Hi ! I think the led light improvement is only in the Performance model. Am i right?

[@B4R0N.]

Team chrome! Great video! Very informative.

[@kellympaul]

USBc to lightning has come with the last few phones + airpod pros, so those cables are widely available already.

[@dennisschlieckau8723]

Will the new wheel covers fit the older wheels?

[@thomascook5788]

Did you get a chance to try the new aero wheel caps on the older rims?

[@steveclarke3499]

Very informative review. Be interesting to see if Tesla offer the performance boost on the facelift LR model and at what price...........

[@ThisBrownGeek]

USB-C is a huge plus for the Model 3 and newer Tesla vehicles. It is literally becoming the new standard for USB. Talking about it like it is a negative is quite ridiculous. Anyways, thanks for the video, I clicked “like” and I do enjoy your content. I am in the UK and do intend on purchasing a Tesla, so I will look you up! Keep up the great work!

[@johnmansfield3317]

Good video two glaring omissions still in a £50k car which is shame when comparing to other premium brands. 1) ambient lighting. Surely it'd very cheap for Tesla to put some abpmbient light strips in the a r to lift the interior at night. 2) No HUD still! What have Tesla got against HUD? Would be so helpful to get even basic driving info in a HUD.

[@TheTechOnline]

So odd seeing a company that’s a mile down the road from me in my KZbin suggestions haha

[@RSEV]

Where are you and what do you do? We’re the main independent Tesla dealer in the UK and in New Milton

[@TheTechOnline]

@@RSEV I am just over in Highcliffe and I’m in the Merchant Navy. Hoping to get in Model 3 LR in ~6 months. Hard one when your under 25 and Tesla won’t give you a test drive haha.

[@MrSpeeedGuy1]

@@TheTechOnline Hey mate, I'm under 25 and Tesla gave me a test drive down here in London. Not sure why they wouldn't let you...

[@TheTechOnline]

@@MrSpeeedGuy1 Oh thats odd. Their test drive website says they wont do them for under 25s. Might have to contact them.

[@MrSpeeedGuy1]

@@TheTechOnline Yeah you're right haha - I didn't book a test drive, I just walked in and they offered it... anyhow, my model 3 long range arrives next week!

[@AleksanderHoff]

Love the refresh. The only thing really missing now are better noise reduction and some better seats (bigger sides and maybe an option for people with longer thighs?). Would have loved a wagon version though.. but I guess they will never release that, closest will probably be the Model Y. When the Model Y arrives in Europe I expect the new Model 3 center console to be part of it... and that is around the time I am considering a new car. The trunk will probably steer me towards a Model Y, but the 3 is cheaper and lower to the ground (which I like in terms of seating position).

[@florasplace]

Don’t forget the magnetic sun visor clip!

[@RSEV]

Darn it, I knew about that one too... 🤦‍♂️

[@blueplanet1048]

Also the auto dimming heated mirrors, because it was gone on some later models then with this refresh all the mirrors are auto dimming and heated

[@gsp1504]

The center console is nice but I do not like the chrome edges again. Why again chrome when removing the chrome in the model 2021. How long does it take till Tesla build-in Head Up Displays. Hoping that the light are getting better, new Matrix-Lights should be a must for such a car category. I know in the US light have not the same priority but the European version require such modern lights.

[@sybergoosejr]

I like the older style but I still want the extra port in the glove box and lift trunk

[@user-kq6xf4om3l]

Chrome on the white looks great but the black on grey/black looks much less cheap now. I’ve never wished for a power trunk on my 3 though.

[@vegareggan]

the double glas is not for sound it keeps the side windows from fogging up

[@Vivra_Verra____]

The range and the heat pump are definitely the best improvements. The new center console is not my cup of tea, as I like my wrap actually and simple look of the old console. The chrome also looks better I think on the midnight silver metallic color in my opinion. Looks way more classy and luxurious compared to satin black. A decent upgrade though. I actually have the new frunk actually because I have the September build (I live in US), but I don’t think it has the heat pump.

[@jjonkie]

will the 2021 Aerocaps fit on the 2020 wheel ? Did you try ?

[@robertfrancis979]

I like all the improvements (especially the 353 miles of range).

[@RSEV]

I’ll be interested to run our range comparison tests soon

[@AdrianMcDaid]

@@RSEV please do

[@iskadobadsf]

Should I go for the Shanghai heat-pump-/10km-more-range-/0-100%-charge-/good-quality-clearance-model (2020) or the 2021-model?

[@Edifred2007]

I got my 3 in September so just missed the refresh. Of all the changes the only one I would have liked is the centre console. Dechrome is awful! Powered boot is nothing special but a powered frunk would be nicer. Great vid guys. Would love to visit your establishment one day as I'm local to you. Good vid and keep the coming!

[@RSEV]

a refresh is always fun but to drive they feel the same, the centre console i dont think makes too much difference. The headlights though maybe (not that the old ones were bad).... come see us when lockdown over, always coffee and car talk available..

[@scottwills4698]

Heat pump and bigger battery (more dense not physically bigger) is the biggest upgrades for me.

[@batandball617]

Nice video👍

[@johndaniel4532]

any road noise test between both models?

[@psandbergnz]

It's very important to compare the noise levels on a motorway. The "old" Tesla is often criticised as having too much wind and road noise.

[@jacobguo6981]

The 2021 model 3 didn't come with a console tray?

[@mrmcclear]

I like the chrome and the old Aero wheels. Love the new features though of the 21...

[@DenisRapiti]

For me the chrome is more elegant, would have preferred it, but dechrome on its way.

[@WegrennerX]

I just got my m3 but of course it’s a 2020 version without the heat-pump. How can you already own a 2021 version?

[@peteleech1]

Great video Richard thanks, I think it's an improvement all-round. Personally I would say a satin finish instead of chrome but love the centre console. Do you think the Double glazing in the front only will stay or rear to follow?

[@RSEV]

Thank you. I was surprised that only the front windows are this way. I think it will stay like this, and I’d be interested to hear the official line from Tesla on why it’s like that because first impressions at least are that it isn’t any quieter particularly.

[@steveseeger]

USB C is the new standard for phones and laptops etc. You own a car a long time, it makes sense for it to be USB C which is better because it's smaller and reversible vs A which you have to orient properly and even when oriented properly it's not as easy to plug in. Also most people buying Tesla's are technology savvy.

[@redpillgreenenergy141]

I like the ability to "cover" my cell phones when I drive at night to avoid an unexpected bright light shining at my face. I have real carbon fiber on both so no worries about the gloss black.

[@RSEV]

Good point that phones no longer covered... possible distractions....

[@David-bl1bt]

I agree, I prefer the previous centre console design for this reason plus you have the option of custom wrapping to your individual choice. The usb in the glove box is ok I guess but if a hard drive is used it takes up space. Easy enough to wire in a usb there anyway if required.

[@Anonymouslyme1]

Just turn it around then

[@gerryjones3901]

Has the undertray s changed on the 2021

[@nettlesoup]

Good comparison, thanks guys. Don't forget to update your KZbin channel "About" section with company details. And recommend to add https to front of your web site address in description or else it's not clickable from mobile devices 👍

[@Anonymous-vy9ey]

Here from Carwow!

[@janisliepins]

Why your 21 model Has no wood trim on front doors?

[@damiancox7276]

Southampton tip useful, defo de-chrome for me

[@MCSMIK]

Good video. How much does it cost to turn the 2019 Model 3 frunk into a powered version and have you done those? Not that bothered with the rear trunk as it’s quite easy but the front is more of a pain to open and close I find

[@RSEV]

Yes we have. Check our website and submit an enquiry. Our colleague Serge will be able to reply to you. Thank you!

[@djones1304]

Think the control wheels on the steering wheel are different

[@michaelklump3337]

What about the boot lip seal??

[@mark123655]

Is the front glass any thicker. Or just two half thickness pieces glued together. Definitely interested in the sound noise test. I like the chrome about the windows.. but prefer the dechrome (or ideal metal matching) on repeaters and handles. Prefer the old console look.

[@RSEV]

the combined two layers is a little thicker than the one, Noise test video coming soon...

[@POTThaesslich]

Still no proper rain gutter on the rear window :( and they obviously thought they get away with less quality on the frunk

[@jjonkie]

2020 Model 3 headlights are good for the driver but not for who comes driving towards you at night or with rain... There are so bright you can't see a thing afterwards ! Would like to retrofit the 2021 headlights someday..

[@HansMilling]

On the white car, black looks better, but the others, chrome looks better in my opinion.I hope the original powered trunk can be retrofitted. The new center console is way better in my opinion and the usb in the glove box.

[@Apemania69]

Question as noone seem to show it. The gloss in the doorhandle is gone as well or still glossi?

[@RSEV]

Door handles also black yes...

[@paulaus]

Can you get centre caps and nut covers to run without the Aero covers?

[@RSEV]

You can yes, Tesla sell a kit. About £50

[@2skydream]

Nice video, hoping my red deCrome model 3 AWD arrives in Southampton mid December. I’ve heard Tesla now recommend charging to 100% every few weeks for battery life, is that what you’ve heard ? Will look out for the noise test. 👍

[@ostehandleren]

I believe it's connected with the new battery type in the China made SR+.

[@crospotter13]

dechrome is better but would love to see gloss black

[@cawashka]

They should’ve made “chrome delete” an option. I really liked the chrome. The matte black looks cheap imo. The interior looks better imo though.

[@faizshahul3250]

I love decrome

[@roobdude]

I love the chrome delete but, HATE the new console. That sleek minimalist console is what attracted me to the car. SO glad I got a late 2020 before they changed it.

[@RSEV]

Fair enough, and it’s not hard to chrome delete, it’s something we do. Or... swap with someone who has a new one but wants chrome!

[@Yanquetino]

I much prefer the chrome; the black trim is too "dull" for my tastes. And I think chrome would be a more consistent match for the metal around the new console. And we didn't get to see how the steering wheel and door buttons had changed. I take it there is no longer storage space under the phone shelf…? If so, that's unfortunate. The power trunk lid is a nice improvement. Overall… the changes are not nearly enough to tempt me to trade in my 2018 Model 3. I'll probably just hang on to it for years to come.

[@OrganicStuff1]

Wish they de chromed the badges

[@joannaw.8992]

Waiting for the 2022 version of this

[@aaronstock8544]

I prefer the chrome in my 2020 but like the new center console.

[@Ifyoudonttakeitucantfakeit]

I can’t see the door handles at night on blue car😂 The boot must have a sensor as when opening with tow bar bike rack on it stops, reverses and shuts. Not sure if it monitors height!

[@bt6joso]

An option for a softer ride would be nice..

[@markgaudie80]

I do like the new features on the 2021 model. Centre console had to change. That gloss black is awful stuff for scratching and fingerprints.

[@enunez371630]

No Brainer, matt finish and no chrome. By the way the chrome trim on the center console is a big why?

[@jayk.23]

what would you say the biggest exterior change is ? i like to call out cars while i’m driving and sometimes i can’t tell if it’s a 2020 or 2021

[@RSEV]

Definitely the de-chrome but even older ones can have an aftermarket de-chrome. So that leaves the Uberturbines to differentiate the 2020 to 2021 models.

[@scm4u]

Like the chrome

[@phillpalmer1451]

Loving your videos Rich especially on CarWow. I have the option of swapping my new Model 3 Long Range for a 2020 Model 3 Performance. What would you do?

[@RSEV]

If want to do track days, go performance, otherwise no real point to be honest…. Although the wheels are cool and the newer refresh models have the slightly bigger 82 battery

[@phillpalmer1451]

@@RSEV so 2020 performance or 2021 long range?🤣

[@leedart]

I wish that they would offer the early adopters the upgrades as they come out, like the power trunk.....I hate not getting any love for taking the chance on the company's first mass market unit. Thievn translates to the hardware upgrades.

[@topgunm]

No wonder Tesla owners get a bad name. I have a 2020 Model 3 LR. I bought the car, knowing fully well the options that were aviaible when I bought it. How can anyone say they should get the upgrades when they are avalible on newer cars? You are already getting tons of free upgrads in form of SW upgrades. If you didn't like the current car you have, you woulden't have bought it. You didn't buy a 50k USD car to be an "early adopter", you bought it because you wanted the car as advertised.

[@henningsb4067]

I heard some rumours that the screen is tilted a little more against the driver on the new one. Is that something you guys can check? :)

[@RSEV]

It’s centre flat again, same as before. Would be very easy to add a pivot so why it isn’t there I don’t know 💁‍♂️

[@geniusam1995]

Could you tell me what is the VIN of the 2021 model 3? >820XXX

[@RSEV]

Yes, greater than by c.3,000

[@Torahobservantisrael]

Chrome looks best and that piano black trim looks better too imho!

[@sascha6389]

This beard , I like it soooo much. And yes, nice M3.

[@RSEV]

That’s Jo. Resident expert in facial foliage, hipster trends, and watches as well as Teslas of course 😂

[@paulkeitch401]

What is your truthful view of a model 3. Do you have the long range or standard plus and which would you suggest is better for someone who does max 200 miles a month. I like the added bits on the long range like the improved sound system and heated rear seats but is it really worth the extra 6k. Thanks

[@Brett5106]

I ordered the 2021 LR Model 3. The extra mileage plus all the additional improvements, with no cost change is a no brainer. I hope to get mine in the 2 weeks.

[@RSEV]

Well you don’t need the range, so Sr+ fine but also look at it that the items won’t cost you £6k more. It’s £6k more out of the bank yes, but it will retain that difference in value (roughly speaking) throughout the next few years... so you’ll get it back.

[@paulkeitch401]

@@RSEV you can’t just update the music though can you it all appears a factory build ?

[@ActuMoto]

Frunk lock is different also. Easier to close now