Tesla Model 3’s Standard Range vs. Long Range: What’s The Difference?
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If you’re in the market for a Tesla Model 3, one of your biggest decisions is which version to buy: the Standard Range or the Long Range. While both may look the same, there are significant differences in battery tech, driving range, performance, charging speed, and price. Choosing the right version involves carefully considering and assessing your needs and preferences. Keep reading for all the details of this EV showdown—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs. Long Range.
Important Note: Tesla regularly changes its cars, including the Model 3. All specifications mentioned in this article are based on the most recent data provided by Tesla as of October 20, 2023. Older examples or ones built after this date may have different details.
Batteries and Driving Range—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs Long Range
The most obvious differences between these two Model 3s are battery capacity and EPA-rated driving range. The Standard Model 3 packs a 50 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which provides a range of 272 miles on a full charge. Meanwhile, the Long Range is equipped with an 82 kWh nickel-based battery, giving it an EPA range of 333 miles.
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So, if you want to minimize the time spent charging and take longer road trips with less range anxiety, the Long Range clearly comes out ahead. However, 272 miles is still plenty of capacity for most people’s daily commuting and errands. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the average American drives about 37 miles per day. So, the typical Standard Range owner could drive for a week before needing to plug in.
The LFP battery chemistry used in the Standard Range also holds up very well to repeated fast charging. It can be charged to 100% every night without significantly deteriorating the battery over time. In contrast, limiting the Long Range’s nickel battery charging to 80% for daily use is best to maximize cell longevity. In other words, you don’t have to worry about charging frequency leading to battery degradation with the Standard Range’s LFP arrangement.
Charging Speed and Infrastructure—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs Long Range
Both Model 3s can use Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network to add hundreds of miles of range in short order. But the Long Range model has the edge when it comes to maximum charging rate. Its advanced battery supports charging up to 250 kW, while the Standard Range maxes out at 170 kW.
How does this difference apply in the real world? With the Long Range, you’ll spend less time plugged in and charging on road trips. Of course, the Standard Range’s charging speed isn’t bad. The Long Range just gets it down quicker.
Yet, the Long Range’s charging capabilities are moot if you’re using an older V2 Supercharger, which is limited to an output of 150 kW. So, both versions would charge at the same speed in this situation. You’ll need to tap into a V3 Supercharger with 250 kW output to fully exploit the Long Range’s charging superiority.
Performance and Handling—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs Long Range
From a performance perspective, the Long Range’s dual motors outshine the Standard Range’s single motor. The Long Range hits 60 mph from a standstill in 4.2 seconds; this is sports car territory. But the Standard Range isn’t slow, either. With a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, this least-expensive Model 3 is still faster than most vehicles on the road.
The Long Range also comes out ahead in the handling department thanks to standard all-wheel drive (AWD)—one electric motor per axle. On the other hand, the Standard Range is rear-wheel drive only. For those who want AWD’s extra grip and assuredness, the Long Range is your only option.
Autopilot and Self-Driving Capability—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs Long Range
The Standard Range and Long Range Model 3 come with Tesla’s Autopilot advanced driver assist system as standard equipment. The two cars can be upgraded to Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) for additional functionality like Auto Lane Change, Autopark, Summon, and Smart Summon. You can also add Tesla’s Full Self Driving (FSD) capability to either model for a $15,000 one-time fee (or a monthly subscription). Autopilot and FSD access and functions are identical between the two versions. You aren’t missing out on anything related to autonomous driving by going with the lower-priced Standard Range.
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Styling and Interior Features—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs Long Range
Both Model 3 variants share the same minimalist and modern interior. Tesla’s 15-inch central touchscreen display, vegan leather seats, and expansive glass roof are common to the Standard Range and Long Range. On the outside, the only noticeable difference is the badging on the rear.
However, the Standard Range is less equipped than its pricier counterpart. Buyers have to settle for manually adjustable front seats, a lower-end audio system, and less elaborate interior trim.
Cost Savings—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs Long Range
To keep its cars competitive, Tesla has dropped the price of the Model 3 at different times in 2023. The Standard Range now starts at $38,990, while the MSRP for the Long Range begins at $45,990. The gap between the two versions was $12,000 earlier this year, but the $7,000 separation today makes choosing that much more difficult.
These prices don’t reflect the $7,500 federal EV tax credit (and applicable state incentives). However, Tesla advises that the amount will drop to $3,750 at the end of 2023 due to a change in Federal regulations.
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The Verdict—Tesla Model 3: Standard vs Long Range
There’s no right or wrong answer in choosing between the Standard Range and Long Range Tesla Model 3. It all comes down to needs and preferences. A buyer looking for the cheapest Model 3 will head toward the Standard Range. This version is also ideal for those focused more on gas-free daily driving or not caring about having a car with every bell and whistle.
On the other hand, the Long Range is well-suited for long-distance roads requiring as few as possible plug-ins or for those wanting a fully equipped Model 3, including all-wheel drive.
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