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- For 2024, the
Tesla Model 3
receives what appears to be a typical facelift, but the reduction in cabin noise is significantly more than average. - This latest Model 3, a Long Range RWD variant, achieved 310 miles in our highway-range test, marking the first Model 3 to exceed 300 miles, which is approximately 85 percent of the EPA range figure.
- Tesla attributes these improvements to custom Michelin tires, acoustic-laminated glass throughout, better aerodynamics, and ongoing reductions in internal drag in the electric motor.
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Although the 2024 updates to the Model 3 lineup may appear to be a standard facelift, the noise reduction is anything but typical. Our tests on a Long Range RWD model indicated an average of 67 decibels at a 70-mph cruise, which is three decibels better than the previous Model 3 we evaluated.
Much Quieter Than Before
Previously, the Model 3 was cited as an example of how not all EVs are exceptionally quiet, but that has certainly changed. It’s important to understand that the decibel scale is logarithmic; therefore, a shift of 10 dBA represents a 100-fold change in sound pressure. Practically speaking, the variation from 70 to 67 dBA equates to a noticeable improvement in driving comfort.
Tesla credits the notable gain in quietness to the use of double-pane acoustic-laminated glass around the vehicle; in previous models, only the windshield and front side windows were insulated. Additionally, a slight redesign of the hood helps channel air smoothly over the vehicle, which reduces wind noise.
The latest Michelin tires specifically designed for Tesla, a Primacy All Season variant compared to the earlier Primacy MXM4, are also cited for contributing to the sound reduction and improved rolling resistance. While the skidpad performance of 0.84 g may not be astonishing, it’s consistent with the earlier performance of Model 3s. Notably, this latest test vehicle is 80 pounds lighter than a 2018 Long Range RWD model.
A Model 3 Exceeds 300 Miles of Range
Along with reduced noise, this Model 3 variant offers significantly improved highway performance. The EPA range increased from 330 miles in the previous Long Range RWD model to 363 miles for 2024. During our highway test, we recorded an impressive 310 miles at 75 mph, eclipsing previous expectations.
Highway-range data from previous Tesla models consistently hovered around 75 percent of their EPA ratings, whereas this new model reaches about 85 percent. When we inquired Tesla about these gains, they attributed them to recent changes in EPA testing standards, which now require automakers to test in multiple scenarios and average the results, alongside enhancements to the electric motor’s internal drag.
Even though the latest Model 3 appears nearly unchanged, it represents a significant improvement in comfort and usability.
Dave VanderWerp
Director, Vehicle Testing
Dave VanderWerp has over 20 years in the automotive field across various roles, from engineering to product consulting, currently leading iBestTravel’s vehicle-testing initiatives.
