2021 Tesla Model 3: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 13, 2026

The most important change for the 2021 Tesla Model 3 is improved range and efficiency across the lineup, helped by a new heat-pump climate system. It is a meaningful mid-cycle update rather than a full redesign.

Shop 195 in stock at Carvana

About the 2021 Tesla Model 3

1st generation (2017-2023), major 2021 refresh/update year

Tesla positions the Model 3 as a sport sedan first and an EV second: quick response, long driving range, a minimalist cabin built around one large touchscreen, and direct access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Versus other compact luxury sedans and mainstream EVs, the Model 3 stands out for strong acceleration even in lower trims, frequent software updates, and a very tech-heavy ownership experience.

The Standard Range Plus is the simple rear-wheel-drive version, with 263 miles of EPA-rated range, a 15-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Long Range is the everyday sweet spot, pairing dual-motor AWD with a 353-mile rating, while the Performance emphasizes speed and handling with a 3.1-second quoted 0-60 mph time, Track Mode, stronger brakes, and a sport-tuned suspension.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

EPA-rated range increased from 250 to 263 miles for Standard Range Plus, from 322 to 353 miles for Long Range, and from 299 to 315 miles for Performance. Tesla also added a heat-pump climate system to improve efficiency. Quoted 0-60 mph times improved to 4.2 seconds for Long Range and 3.1 seconds for Performance.

Styling

Black exterior trim replaced the earlier chrome look, and the center console was redesigned.

Tech

The redesigned console gained integrated wireless phone charging, and Tesla added a power-operated trunk.

2021 Tesla Model 3 specs and features by trim

Feature	2021 Tesla Model 3Long Range62 in stock	2021 Tesla Model 3Performance30 in stock	2021 Tesla Model 3Standard Range Plus103 in stock
Engine	Dual Electric Motors	Dual Electric Motors	AC Electric Motor
Transmission	Single-Speed Fixed Gear	Single-Speed Fixed Gear	Single-Speed Fixed Gear
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD	RWD
Fuel Type	Electric	Electric	Electric
Trunk/Cargo	15 cu-ft	15 cu-ft	15 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	35.2 in	35.2 in	35.2 in
Seats	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4
Electric Range	353	315	263
MPGe Combined	121	113	141
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Park Assist
360 Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
LED Headlights
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Subwoofer
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Heated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Push-Button Engine Start
Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel

How the 2022 Tesla Model 3 compares

The biggest change for the 2022 Tesla Model 3 is the entry model’s switch to an LFP battery, along with its new Standard name and 272-mile EPA range. Otherwise, this is a quiet carryover year without a major redesign.

See the full 2022 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2021 Tesla Model 3 a full redesign?

No. The 2021 Model 3 is a substantial mid-cycle update within the original generation, so its basic body and platform carry over while its range, climate system, styling, console, charging features, and trunk receive updates.

How much EPA-rated range does each 2021 Model 3 trim have?

The 2021 Standard Range Plus is rated at 263 miles, the Long Range at 353 miles, and the Performance at 315 miles. Those figures rose from 250, 322, and 299 miles, respectively, for 2020.

Does the 2021 Tesla Model 3 have a heat pump?

Yes. Tesla added a heat-pump climate system across the 2021 Model 3 lineup to help improve efficiency.

What styling and cabin features changed on the 2021 Model 3?

The 2021 Model 3 replaced its earlier chrome exterior trim with black trim and received a redesigned center console. The console integrates wireless phone charging, and a power-operated trunk was also added.

Was the Standard Range trim discontinued for 2021?

Yes. The Standard Range trim was dropped for 2021, leaving Standard Range Plus as the rear-wheel-drive entry model alongside the dual-motor Long Range and Performance versions.

2021 Tesla Model 3 Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2021 Tesla Model 3.

4.5

2021 Tesla Model 3

(1,314 reviews)

5 stars (828)

4 stars (367)

3 stars (91)

2 stars (21)

1 star (7)

“Range is not an issue. It is expensive but worth the money. Service isn't always supportive with technology”

JDJason D.
2021 Tesla Model 3

“Staple electric car for the price, good for a first time EV driver. Be prepared for all the premium fees associated with the quality/features.”

JDJabri D.
2021 Tesla Model 3

“The Model 3 is super fun to drive and it adds new features after you buy it! The trade off is that there are bugs (like ghost braking on autopilot) that can be frustrating.”

JMJohn M.
2021 Tesla Model 3