Tesla Model 3 Performance Three Month Review! The Best Car I Have Ever Owned

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Today, I review my own car; a Quicksilver / White Tesla Model 3 Performance; the best car I have ever owned
2:40 - Category 1: Charging
7:22 - Category 2: Technology
22:05 - Category 3: Driveability
35:24 - Category 4: Ergonomics
41:54 - Category 5: Buying Considerations
46:53 - Category 6: Use Cases
48:48 - Category 7: Build Quality
51:23 - Category 8: Noise & Vibrations
53:00 - Category 9: Warranty
55:40 - Category 10: Service
57:29 - Summary Final Rating
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#Tesla #model3 #Performance #ModelY

[@robertrichardson6904]

Glad you finally recognize the value of dog mode. I frequently drive 650 miles from Punta Gorda to visit my kids in the Mountains of NC. Since I have FSD about half the time I just drive straight through. The other half I pull into a rest area and go to bed. Camp mode guarantees a perfect night's sleep and I'm 88. With a Chihuahua security is not a problem. And no problem driving through hurricane Helene last summer. FSD goes around fallen trees and mudslides just fine. When I hit 85 I had just about quit driving. Then I bought my 2023 mylr. Love my Tesla.

[@outofspecdave1554]

This is awesome Very proud of you!

[@KeyOn_M6]

I used to drive BMW's (still have two M's) but the Model 3 is incredible.

[@cocktailsanddreams]

Just traded in my 2022 M240i (which I think is a phenomenal car) for the 2025 M3P. Couldn't agree more!

[@alexsmith6271]

@@cocktailsanddreams why? Stage 2 your 240 and you will the same power. I own 22 model 3 performance and won't be buying another one. I like m3 x drive

[@1519Spring]

3 month IS a "keeper" car for Dave!

[@Harrythehun]

Hahaha a real longtermer

[@dirkvanvuuren6227]

@@1519Spring It's a miracle.

[@milesfong3901]

Until Keeper 2 comes along.

[@liam1902]

The real question is what's Dave gonna do when the new Model Y Refresh comes out in the US, especially the Performance trim.

[@foys777]

I agree with the seating comfort. I own a Model 3 and Model Y. The way I would describe it is, drive a Model Y if you running errands. And drive a Model 3 just to “just drive”.

[@stanmisiak5634]

The rear traffic alert should give an Audible sound in addition to highlighting the screen

[@kwillee93]

I’m wondering why it doesn’t

[@stanmisiak5634]

Me too Other cars do it

[@stevevansak7324]

Quicksilver is THE color in my opinion!

[@SparkySho]

Mine 2 👍👍

[@georgepelton5645]

IMO, The Model 3 deserves better than a “1” for storage. Sure, a hatch would be more versatile, but the Model 3 has spacious sub-trunk and frunk. Compare to BMW M3, Toyota Corolla, etc. Lots more storage than fossil sedans.

[@olemissjim]

Agreed. And the center console and glove box (smart locking- valet mode) is great. Odd ding

[@jeffreyjoseph559]

I loved my model 3 until I got my MYP there's not going back once you go Hatch.

[@georgepelton5645]

@@jeffreyjoseph559 Since we are a two car family, we have both a Model 3 and a Model Y. The Y is great for rear seat and cargo space when needed, but the 3 has better handling and is more fun to drive.

[@ozielh]

Agree, comparing it with the MY doesn’t make sense, they are cars in different categories

[@pete_roszell]

Morning from Denver, I bought my Model 3 performance based on your thoughts. I totally agree; it's the best car I've ever driven. It's so capable, super fast, and intelligent. I hesitated because of the Low Profile track tires, but I got 19" Martian wheels (shadow grey) and excellent Michelin tires. It is super smooth with this setup!

[@nihongobenkyoshimasu3190]

56:00 I agree, the car should provide a way to safely carry a spare tire, something needed when you are driving away from main highways and Tesla service centers or tires shops. Tesla also are sold in countries with low population density, like Canada or Australia and so on, and you cannot take the risk of been stranded in middle of nowhere. Note: None of the Tesla, including the Cybertruck, have space for a spare tire, while this would be quite easy by replacing the straight beam between the two rear wheelhouses, with a curved beam.

[@MrKeg830]

Love the Bucees license plate cover and extra rider! :D Your reviews helped me decide on one and it is the best car I have ever owned so far. We will see how the reliability is over the next couple years. I'm coming from a 350z, WRX, Fiesta ST, GR Corolla..so not the most luxurious, but I literally jumped back in the GR Corolla the other day and was just disappointed!

[@stanmisiak5634]

Enjoy your videos. I bought my Model Y partly after watching your videos with Kathy plus your referral 😀

[@outofspecdave1554]

Thanks Stan!

[@rkgsd]

I'm one of those who used to have the sound system in all my cars upgraded by car audio shops, Circuit City and Best Buy. I was shocked by the sound quality of the Tesla Model Y and Model 3. It's even more interesting considering Tesla is using in-house speakers. The bass from the subs rivals what I get from my Kicker 12" ported enclosure.

[@kusa1403]

Love ur videos Dave ❤

[@davidkeller1040]

FYI- EVgo plug and charge works with any car after downloading app and first charging session. No monthly plan required.

[@ArnoldWinters]

Tesla just added battery level at destination.

[@outofspecdave1554]

Ya, but it’s only 1 tier Good step in the right direction, but as I said, state of the art allows you to specify intermediate chargers at one SOC and the final destination at another Super useful in the Porsche

[@bigtenpochet]

Nailed it on the Route Planning. This is the one area where Tesla, with SW modifications, could really make the vehicles amazing. First, the route planning needs to expand charging options to include NON-tesla stations (EV-go, EA, etc.). In addition to this, I have added a CCS charging stop on a trip where there wasn't a Tesla SUC nearby, and as such, I couldn't get optimal battery preconditioning to happen for this stop. Manual option at a minimum, but asking the driver if they want to add preconditioning at ANY waypoint in the route planner would be helpful.

[@user-to2rf1rj5v]

40:26 I'm confused by this take. This a mid-sized sedan, not a crossover or CUV. Why would it be a hatchback?

I would get the model 3 rear wheel drive long range..thats the best model 3 ..its got great range and lots of storage.. I put my road bike in the back with the front wheel taken off..

[@terrymattingly6843]

He lives in northern climate half the year. That’s an issue.

[@mikemulrooney4824]

Good vid

[@jimmypeach8838]

Only problem is the Steering… way too sensitive at high speed. Barely turn wheel and wants to turn too much. Rest of Tesla cars are great like suspension etc… too bad ruins great car… they need to drive a 5 series BMW to see what great steering should feel like

[@meatheadtank]

Those rims and tires look great on your car.

[@1519Spring]

50:21 Dave, are you saying you can't see that the bumper and quarter panel don't match? Seems clear to me, even on video.

[@abdulshabazz8597]

This is so true, I noticed this with my white M3LRs rear quarter panel compared with the bumper. Just a shade difference. Yes, the rear bumper is composed of a different thermoplastic material, but if a separate paint mix is applied in a separate painting stage...engineering should be able to completely match for the final appearance, following the curing process.

[@R56Cooper]

Great review🎉 looking forward to the US spec reveal of the refresh model Y for added utility! (Hopefully US spec models will get that rumored 95kw larger battery 🤞)

[@Fahrenheit53]

I added the Teslogic system to create a binnacle with a spare iPhone. Works great and shows me if someone is in my blindspot. Btw it’s not a headrest! It’s a head restraint so you won’t get whiplash in a rear end collision

[@happycamperinc.]

Tesla really good at delivering their best product and services at very High scale affordabley and while still being profitable. That's why everything just works. Unlike other auto manufacturers.

[@georgepelton5645]

Dave, I doubt Tesla did not offer firmware OTA updates before 2017, as stated. IIRC firmware for the ABS brake system was updated about 2013-14. Changes to “uncork” extra performance and battery capacity were also made, most likely requiring firmware in the inverters and BMS to be updated. I believe the 2012 Model S was designed from the start to allow firmware in any control module with flash memory to be updated.

[@outofspecdave1554]

Interesting Not what my research showed me, but what you say makes sense. Appreciate the context and for watching !

[@jeanbaptistelabelle]

@@outofspecdave1554 i confirm as I had Model S from this time and we did receive some regular firmware update. Indeed, I had a S75D that was uncorked with an overnight update. Incredible stuff.

[@wij08001]

How about the white seats? Some people said that the Model 3 new white seats are less stain-resistant compared to the current Model Y or the old Model 3. Any thoughts?

[@alexanderkenway]

Highland Model 3 is just beautiful. I don't know what they were thinking with the upcoming Model Ys

[@worldtrav72]

That QS with the silver rims and white interior looks great. I have a feeling a used M3P Highland is in my future…

[@jjkbigman]

You can add a small screen in front of the steering wheel on the dash I believe for your speed and several other information

[@777Outrigger]

Nice looking car no matter how you cut it.

[@KeithHowells]

What is the range improvement by going down to the 18” wheels?

[@777Outrigger]

Tesla added 3600 Superchargers in Q4 worldwide. That's a record pace! Maybe that equates to about 1800 in the US. ...And yes, you can now set the SOC at the destination, but not at the enroute chargers yet.

[@PalmTree26]

Wait whoa whoa. I know where this is filmed exactly! 😂 I'm also considering the Model 3 but also like the looks of the Model Y, just not sure about the distance performance.

[@darrenorange2982]

Dave: Keeper....Next Week: Hello Goodbye.

[@davidwang2960]

State of charge at arrival is a new feature that was added as part of the Xmas update so your car should already have that feature.

[@rickflare6736]

@@davidwang2960 My New 2025 Y Performance has it. I picked it up in December 2024. I noticed that this morning, matter of fact. Good stuff. Rich.

[@freduk5342]

In EU, the main complaints are - the planner doesn't consider better options outside the supercharger network (and without manual battery preheating that makes it even more complicated) - most of the competition provides the EAP with the cruise control. Without the EAP, Xpeng, BMW and others are seen as better.Bear in mind FSD is not legal in EU. - lack of 360 view for parking - Changing gear on the screen when manoeuvring in tight space

[@cliffmiller7098]

First, let me start off by saying I love your content. Keep it up. I do have a question,you mentioned in your towing section that the model three was capable of towing with the proper hitch. Could you elaborate more on what in your opinion would be a proper hitch my wife and I have purchased 2024 Highland rear wheel drive and would like to add a bicycle rack. Thanks again for all your content.

[@terrymattingly6843]

Three months or so! Hang in there

[@tommy13965]

I agree the best car I have ever owned so happy I made the change to Tesla after owning a couple of acuras and Lexus the tech just doesn’t compare. The amount of features you get on the m3 performance compared to the tlx and the IS don’t even come close the best thing is I never have to deal with filling up ever again, plugging in at home is so convenient.

[@brianbeasley7270]

Charge at destination has now been added to the NAV system with an OTA update.

[@georgedoolittle9015]

Tesla is really crushing it at the moment #mature_technology so absolutely true to say here and is being said here as well if not on board the Tesla juggernaut you are being left in the dust. *PERIOD* 😊😊

[@gaom84]

What percentage of tint you put into the car? It looks great... want to copy you for my 24 M3 Rear

[@RidingWithJahv]

How is the charging curve on this compared to the 2024 LR RWD?

[@alanbuck9237]

So we all need to take bets on how long you keep this one. 😝 seriously though it’s a nice car, although the front bumper obviously does not match the painted metal parts in the front. That’s something common on Tesla’s that bugs me. I’m looking forward to seeing if they can pull the same improvements off on the model Y that they did on the 3.

[@georgepelton5645]

The Performance Model 3 is a great car and a great value. If I were younger, I would appreciate the performance more, and buy one if I could afford it. However, I now find the RWD LR the most appealing Model 3, with longer range and RWD playfulness that makes it the most fun to drive IMO. It also has 150 lb. less “road hugging weight” (Ford Pinto ad reference). I also find the standard seats more comfortable, although the performance seats are not bad for comfort and have better side bolsters for hard cornering, I still prefer the standard ones. Performance Model 3 has computer controlled dampers, a great feature, but the other Model 3’s do at least have frequency dependent damping. I reluctantly went with the AWD Model 3, just to get the premium audio. I wish I could get the RWD with premium audio. The RWD has longer range, faster charging, better energy efficiency, and lighter weight. However, I really like my new AWD Model 3. Almost as good as RWD, but it has premium audio and does accelerate a bit quicker.

[@JDB-ru4lp]

@@georgepelton5645 on paper the dual motor is just .5 faster but in real world it’s a completely different car. Way faster.

[@rempha]

Good stuff! We need chapters to navigate to each section.

[@outofspecdave1554]

They are in the description

[@Selene_M3]

I didn’t wait for the highland and got the ‘23 RWD LFP for $32K. 272 miles and only 7 speakers (4 are there but disabled 😢). Now the highland RWD is 363 miles, better stereo and ventilated seats! Yeah I have some FOMO. Didn’t drive a performance but $20k more and I’d be going through tires like crazy. My OEM tires on a RWD won’t make it to 20k as it is. 🤷🏻

[@DouglasJMark]

Great review. All cars can’t be everything. Just a thought, I wonder if Starlink will ever get incorporated into TESLA’s of the future?

[@randocrypto1678]

Hey Dave, what percentage is the tint on your car? I’m looking at getting tint and really like the balance yours has. Not too dark, but still noticeable

[@arrowlogproductions2509]

Is Tesla still building Model 3's with the LG packs?

[@claydix7586]

Great content will rest drive $bear!

[@Hardcoreweather1]

upgrade tires and wheels and you can get 340 miles of range on the performance model

[@outofspecdave1554]

What specific setup did you do this with? Very interested to see your data Thanks!

[@cocktailsanddreams]

I just traded my 2022 BMW M240i for the 2025 M3P. What so many "reviews" seem to miss is what you get for $58k (w/$7,500 TC)...it's absurd what Tesla offers for this price. Oh and the Tesla "haters"...if the car sucked you wouldn't hear a peep. 5 ⭐all the way.

[@AaronCrawford]

A little harsh for a car you love. Complaining about storage but then dinging them on no spare lol

[@LZB987]

Great video ! I was wondering does the new Porsche Macan provides such a remote services like Tesla for example preheating of the cabin, seats ?

[@outofspecdave1554]

Yes it does

[@LZB987]

Thank you for sharing. :)

[@pharm30]

I got my wife ‘25 model 3 LR. Imm5’7” and the thing is icu a chore to get in and out for me. I have no idea how normal size adults do it 😂

[@wendystacos7447]

Dave, was really interested in your thoughts on the seats. In my M3P, the side bolster rubs against the center console. Have you had that issue?

[@RidingWithJahv]

Im here still rocking my 23 m3 SRP. good video, your neighbor in white plains!

[@Charlesbjtown]

It's time has drawn near......

[@Dwilsonmusic145]

🤣

[@1519Spring]

3 Months is pretty long in the tooth (for Dave).

[@Charlesbjtown]

@@1519Spring Definitely. I give this car till spring, and a refresh model y will be in deck.

[@outofspecdave1554]

@Charlesbjtown not happening time will tell

[@user-to2rf1rj5v]

7:05 Elon never said this. He did layoff a lot of people on that team, but never once did he say they were "pulling out" of the DCFC business.

[@outofspecdave1554]

Fair point

[@pppscooby]

Should get -1 for the following, auto wipers, door handles ( needs a light) Also it’s unfair to compare storage against a model Y, should compare against a bmw 3 series, c class merc or Audi a4.

[@MarcesAurelius]

M3P / NorCal = miles / tires: 2024 = 303 summer 2025 = 298 all season

[@mickyd3]

The video is a little outdated. Tesla did include the destination percent of charge in one of the last two releases. I have used it on my model Y twice already.

[@outofspecdave1554]

I know that and stated as such in the video. My understanding is that it doesn’t allow you to specify an arrival SOC for intermediate stops along your journey and then specify a separate SOC for your final destination which we really needed as an example when we arrived in Boston after the Seattle to Boston surge since there was no DCFC charging infrastructure close by. Am I wrong? Please let me know if so Thx!

[@mickyd3]

@outofspecdave1554 I must have misunderstood you while watching the video while eating lunch.

[@mickyd3]

I was think about why you would want to add SOC at each stop but I drive short distances, less than 300 miles. When driving long distances, I can see what you suggest as an advantage as you may stop overnight at a hotel or spend the day at location B and then head on to your final destination. Since I don't drive as many miles as you guys, I guess it would make sense to add this option to a future software update. Thanks for conversing.

[@outofspecdave1554]

@mickyd3 you got it!

[@backdoormanintheend]

Did you test plug and charge with CCS charging stations?

[@outofspecdave1554]

No I have not m. perhaps at an EVGo it should work if set up properly in their system

[@jgalietto]

Dave, Generally a great review. My only quibble would be with your brand reputation score. There should be at least one negative point just for Musk a second negative should be assist for their labor relations policies. I think Henry Ford senior would blanch at how they treat and disrespect their workforce.

[@hughhardyman938]

I know you have gone back and forth on the AC charging category, but I feel of you only have 2 points for it then you need to look at the vehicle that is charging, A Model 3 with a 79kWh battery has no need for an 80amp home AC charger. If it's a F150 or Hummer with a huge battery thats another story. All having an 80amp onboard charger on a Model 3 would do is have people looking to spend a large amount of money to upgrade there home electric service so they can get that 80 amp charging and then most days only need to charge for 1 hour. Just like value for the money you should look at the vehicle that it is and what it really needs.

[@outofspecdave1554]

Great points Thx

[@bananapudding8275]

Are you including ‘availability of service’ in your car ratings? Being able to get service for items that need repair makes a huge difference in car ownership

[@wydryfly]

That’s a great point. I have to drive one hour and 20 minutes for service. My last trip was a real annoyance and one of my issues was not fixed. This can make or break your Tesla experience.

[@bananapudding8275]

@ ya I’m having to wait 2 months for a new windshield. I’ve heard of horror stories with Rivians waiting months and months for simple body panels to be sent to the repair shop from Rivian

[@Harrythehun]

@@bananapudding8275I changed windshield in one week at a regular car windshield shop.

[@MrDgt66]

Yo Dave! :D

[@billbell3737]

Your scoring method needs to align with market share. If it doesn't align then you need to change it so it does align. I developed a system a long time ago that allowed you to estimate market share based on the score. Your scoring system is meaningless otherwise.

[@outofspecdave1554]

Disagree that my rating system is meaningless. But difference of opinion are what makes the world go around! Thanks for watching and sharing your feedback

[@billbell3737]

@@outofspecdave1554 Let's assume you have an amazing scoring system and people use your scoring system in their purchasing decision. That means your scoring system should reflect market share/sales growth. If it doesn't reflect market share/sales growth you need to examine your system and figure out why.

[@rkgsd]

Considering the horrible resale value of Teslas more than 4 years old, it seems smarter to get a used one.

[@junehanzawa5165]

Why can't Porsche have over the air software and firmware updates? Dealers. It's all to appease dealers. That's why having to go through a dealer needs to be a minus. You yourself were super frustrated that Tesla could not have showrooms in Connecticut (as is the case in many other states) and had to turn to a Native American reservation to get around the auto dealership monopoly/cartel laws enacted by auto dealership association bought politicians that force automakers to sell their products only to middlemen we call dealers who, by law, then have 100% control of the final price. Tesla, Rivian and Lucid sell directly to their customers, and the auto dealership association does everything they can to stop them. Having to go through a dealer needs to be a minus as the autodealership monopoly/cartel laws place the American consumer at the mercy of middlemen. It goes against the American spirit of free market competition. How is that not a minus? Still not convinced? Go watch the video released yesterday from Out of Spec Renew where a dealer wanted charge a customer $8,000 for a simple electrical cable repair that Alex bought for under $100.

[@gmv0553]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@iankohen1876]

Are these the MW08 rims?

[@outofspecdave1554]

Yes

[@dragonfencing5147]

Dave, from a numbers perspective yes the Model Y has more storage but the model 3 has more storage than most compact SUVs and sedans with all seats occupied. Plus it has a secure trunk vs a glass hatch. Try maximizing storage in a hatch without compromising the passenger’s comfort and safety.

[@Techridr]

Did you do a 0-60 with 18" vs 20" wheels? You're probably quicker to 60 by at least .2 of a second. Great car!

[@gmv0553]

Who cares about 0-60? If they are electric, they have respectable ability to reach the speed desired!

[@Techridr]

@@gmv0553 I don't care about 0-60. I have the LFP (slow one). But most who buy this performance variant do

[@jimalden9376]

@@gmv0553 Most people like me that are considering this M3 Performance absolutely care about 0-60. Why else pay the premium price for it?

[@aaronhendrickson]

Still waiting to see someone put a hot tube on a trailer and tow it. Have it to be closed in.

[@chuckhazzard7295]

Wave on the way by. Chuck - Hartford, VT.

[@Stanley6877]

A C-? C’mon man! No way!

[@KnightAtomic]

All colors get the tax credit if you get FSD.

[@ZacchAttacked]

“2 out of 3” 😂

[@outofspecdave1554]

Ya Oops Did my best The spreadsheet was not wrong though right?

[@avwill]

I gave this review a thumbs up because it will be useful for some people , but it was nowhere near as enjoyable as your cruising videos. 😒

[@AlbertKnesal-e2q]

"Call 9 11" ...? For a flat tire! Really!

[@charliebrockway166]

“For What It Is Review’. Interesting angle. Have fun

[@ZoPoBuff]

Your point system isn’t good IMO…weighted averages. Also, just to bring up 1 issue related to this specific review (there are many others), to give a negative rating for this specific car class in off-road and towing…r u kidding me. Why in the H would this car/class even have that category. Anyway…

[@outofspecdave1554]

Thanks for the feedback and appreciate the points you are making.

[@daraghmcdonnell6521]

Top marks for ADAS should mean that it’s perfect, but I was watching Jordan’s road trip to Kansas and the car wanted to pull out into high speed, oncoming traffic twice and Jordan had to intervene. Can you really give full marks to a system that has the potential to kill you so often?

[@outofspecdave1554]

I agree and did not give it 5/5

[@johnbaker5533]

if top marks is perfect then it should it apply to every category?

[@johnbaker5533]

Zero for paint/panel gap/door thunk and zero for wind/cabin/tyre. Seems a bit harsh but if that is now the baseline for all other cars then it is fine. I imagine negatives all round for older non highland.

[@marcinmerrimack1726]

Dave, thoughtful review, but I think you’re remiss in making no mention of the lack of steering wheel stalks. You may have no issue, but it’s a showstopper for many prospective buyers, I understand. And what about ‘phantom braking’ and also the ‘rain-sensing’ wipers? Lots of negative comments in the past about those. Would have been useful to hear your experience.

[@outofspecdave1554]

You are absolutely correct on all points Thanks for mentioning them here for all to read

[@colorblindkid720]

Still waiting on some Martian wheels that look good

[@SparkySho]

Gorilla Dave do u think Tesla will insure th Tesla hater bus AND provide road side assistance HA

[@rickybobby6605]

Dude. A 1 hour video and no timestamps? Seriously. WTF? That’s some lazy shit.

[@outofspecdave1554]

Thanks for your constructive commentary

[@laloajuria4678]

easy elonia down vote.

[@ulfw]

Always that horrible Tesla

[@kidamere2408]

aww did the lil ev touch you in your special place