Published on 18th January 2026, journalist Gareth Butterfield put Tesla's latest electric saloon to the test. The central claim for the updated Model 3 Long Range is a game-changer: a WLTP-certified range exceeding 400 miles on a single charge. For many UK drivers, this figure represents a crucial psychological barrier being broken in electric vehicle ownership.
The Model 3 Line-Up and Its Star Performer
Tesla's current Model 3 range is streamlined. The entry-point is the rear-wheel drive 'Standard' model with a 57.5kWh battery. At the top sits the high-performance variant with a 75kWh battery. Occupying the middle ground are the two 'Long Range' models, which are the focus for their remarkable range claims.
The rear-wheel drive Long Range model starts at £44,990 and boasts an official 466-mile WLTP range. The all-wheel drive version costs £49,990 and promises 410 miles. While real-world conditions inevitably trim these figures, the 400-mile milestone is now genuinely within reach for an EV – a significant achievement for the industry.
Living With Tesla's Minimalist Philosophy
The latest Model 3 is a substantial improvement over its predecessor, with sharper styling, superior aerodynamics, enhanced build quality, and more competitive pricing. However, Tesla's radically minimalist interior requires an adjustment period for new owners.
Almost all controls are funnelled through the vast central touchscreen, including the gear selector and speedometer. The sole column stalk operates the indicators, which some find clumsy. Automatic wipers and headlights are managed via steering wheel buttons, a system that can feel unintuitive. Furthermore, there is no support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring drivers to rely solely on Tesla's native infotainment system.
Yet, with time, this digital-centric approach grows on you. The software is intuitive, and over-the-air updates continually refine the experience. Practical touches like the dual wireless smartphone charging pad are well-received, and the minimalist dash allows for clever storage solutions.
The Real-World Range Test: Chasing 400 Miles
The core question remains: can you actually achieve 400 miles? During a winter test in the UK, which included hilly Peak District roads and motorway stretches to access Superchargers, the official figure proved elusive – but impressively close.
On a cold, wet December day, with heating on and wipers working, the Model 3 Long Range AWD was estimated to deliver around 350 to 370 miles from a full charge. On rural B-roads, efficiency easily reached 4 miles per kWh. The car proved comfortable for long journeys, and its rapid charging capability at Tesla's Supercharger network alleviated any lingering range anxiety.
The choice between RWD and AWD models hinges on needs and budget. The AWD offers superior traction, especially in poor weather, for a £5,000 premium and a slight range trade-off. The Performance model is thrilling but expensive, making the Long Range variants the sweet spot for most buyers.
Verdict: An Appealing EV Prospect
Overlooking the Tesla Model 3 would be a mistake. While its saloon body style bucks the SUV trend and its quirks are undeniable, its popularity is well-founded. Once acclimatised to its unique character, the benefits shine through: the excellent app, the game-changing Supercharger network, and the compelling blend of range, performance, and value.
The ability to realistically approach 400 miles on a charge is the icing on the cake, marking the Model 3 Long Range as a genuinely appealing and practical electric vehicle for the UK market.
