The model that popularised electric vehicles into the mainstream globally continues to be one of the best a decade on, with some flaws… The Tesla Model 3 was unveiled 10 years ago – an all-electric midsize sedan designed with a more accessible price tag in mind. Released in 2017, it only hit Australia in 2019. An update in 2021 accelerated its sales, helped by price cuts along the way, before receiving a major refresh in late 2024. Now, the latest Model 3 has regained an indicator stalk, added a front bumper camera, introduced matte black badging, and the Long Range has dropped a motor to become the longest range (claimed) mainstream EV in Australia to date. I tested the new Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) for almost two weeks – including a Brisbane to Yamba range test – and it’s clear that it remains one of the best EVs 10 years later. NOTE: The press vehicle was provided by Tesla Australia for an 11-day independent evaluation. Charging and toll costs were covered, but we have no commercial arrangements with the company and it had no editorial control. Pros. + Outstanding energy efficiency + Incredible tech + Premium interior, attention to details + Nimble and compliant drive + Great value Cons. – Optimistic range and charging claims – Uncomfortable high floor, low seats – Weak air vents, no roof sunshade – Awkward sedan tailgate design – Odd super transparent windows Vehicle tested: | Model | 2026 Tesla Model 3 | | Variant | Premium Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive | | Starting price | $61,900 before on-road costs | | Exterior colour | Stealth Grey (+$1800) | | Interior colour | Black and white (+$1500) | | Options | Full Self-Driving (Supervised) (+$149/month) Premium Connectivity (+$13.99/month) Tesla Front and Rear