The 2025 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD stands as the performance-focused alternative within the Model 3 lineup, delivering the best balance of acceleration, all-weather capability, and remarkable range at $44,130. This comprehensive guide explores every critical detail for buyers considering this dual-motor powerhouse.
2025 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD in white showcasing sleek exterior design
Design and Exterior
The 2025 Model 3 Long Range AWD features the refined “Highland” generation design with enhanced aerodynamics and a more sophisticated aesthetic than earlier models. The vehicle maintains the signature Tesla proportions with identical dimensions to the RWD variant.
External Dimensions:
- Length: 4,720 mm
- Width: 1,933 mm (2,089 mm with mirrors)
- Height: 1,441-1,443 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,875 mm
- Turning Circle: 11.6 meters
- Curb Weight: Approximately 1,930 kg (4,255 lbs)
White Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor AWD parked on a rural road showcasing its sleek design and AWD system.
The aerodynamic design prioritizes efficiency across the entire range, with smooth body lines, flush door handles, and integrated side mirrors that reduce drag. The premium appearance benefits from careful attention to detail, including matte black window surrounds and sleek LED lighting systems.
Color Options
The Long Range AWD is available in six distinctive paint finishes, all equally suitable for this performance variant:
Pearl White Multi-Coat (Standard – No extra cost): The factory default, offering a clean and timeless appearance
Solid Black (Additional cost): A classic option that emphasizes the car’s athletic profile
Midnight Silver Metallic (Additional cost): A versatile neutral tone that masks dirt effectively
Deep Blue Metallic (Additional cost): A vibrant, eye-catching option that showcases the aggressive stance
Quicksilver (Additional cost): A premium tricoat finish delivering exceptional depth and shine
Ultra Red (Additional cost): The most expensive multi-coat option, delivering premium visual impact
Performance and All-Wheel Drive Drivetrain
The Long Range AWD represents the performance sweet spot, featuring Tesla’s proven dual-motor architecture with one motor on each axle, delivering unmatched traction and acceleration.
Drivetrain Specifications:
- Motor Configuration: Dual motors (Induction motor at front, Permanent Magnet Synchronous at rear)
- Combined Power: 366 kW (490 hp)
- Combined Torque: 510 Nm (376 lb-ft)
- 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph): 4.4 seconds
- 0-60 mph (alternative measurement): 4.2-4.4 seconds depending on conditions
- Top Speed: 233 km/h (145 mph)
- Drive Configuration: All-Wheel Drive with dual motors
All-Wheel Drive Advantages:
The dual-motor AWD system provides massive traction benefits, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The front motor delivers instant acceleration response while the rear motor provides the bulk of torque, creating optimal weight distribution and handling balance. This configuration ensures excellent grip whether on wet roads or snow-covered surfaces, inspiring driver confidence in challenging conditions.
The 4.4-second 0-60 mph time represents genuinely impressive performance—matching or exceeding many traditional performance vehicles while maintaining an electric sedan’s practicality and efficiency.
Battery, Range, and Charging
Battery Specifications
Battery Type: Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt (NMC) chemistry
Total Capacity: 82 kWh
Usable Capacity: 77-79 kWh
Architecture: 400V system
EPA Estimated Range: 346 miles (approximately 556 km)
WLTP Range: 421-629 km depending on conditions
Real-World Range: 293-340 miles in mixed conditions (varies with weather and driving style)
The NMC chemistry differs from the RWD model’s LFP battery, offering better performance characteristics at the cost of slightly lower cycle life. This battery type prioritizes power delivery and charging speed over longevity.
Real-World Range Performance
In actual driving conditions, the Long Range AWD delivers:
- Mixed Urban/Highway: 340+ miles on a full charge
- Highway at 75 mph: 250-280 miles
- Cold Weather (-7°C / 20°F): 190-220 miles with full cabin heating
- Optimized Highway (55-60 mph): 400+ miles
Winter range reduction of 30-40% is typical for all EVs due to battery thermal management and increased climate control demands. Preheating while plugged in before departure helps mitigate these losses.
Charging Capabilities
AC Charging (Level 2):
- Maximum Power: 11 kW
- 10-100% Charging Time: Approximately 8-9 hours at home
DC Fast Charging (Supercharger):
- Maximum Power: 250 kW (higher than RWD’s 170 kW)
- 10-80% Charging Time: Approximately 27 minutes
- 80-100% Charging Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
- 150 miles Added in 15 Minutes: 185 miles possible with optimal conditions
The 250 kW maximum charging speed gives the Long Range AWD a significant advantage over the RWD variant. This translates to notably faster cross-country travel, with less time spent at charging stations on long road trips.
Charging Cost Estimates:
- Home Charging (full charge): $13.50-$19.50 (based on $0.16/kWh average US electricity rate)
- Daily 50-mile commute: Approximately $2.40-$3.00
- Supercharger Network: $0.25-$0.60 per kWh depending on location
Tesla Model 3 connected to a Tesla V3 Supercharger station showcasing fast charging capability.
Interior and Comfort
Tesla Model 3 interior showcasing premium white seats and central touchscreen dashboard.
The 2025 Model 3 Long Range AWD interior represents a significant leap forward compared to earlier generations, with the Highland refresh bringing substantially improved acoustic comfort and material quality.
Seating and Accommodations
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
Front Seats: 12-way power-adjustable with multiple memory settings
- Multi-level heating for both driver and passenger
- Ventilation system to cool seats in warm weather
- Exceptional lumbar support with adjustable depth
Rear Seats: Independently heated
- 60/40 split-folding capability
- Heated rear outboard seats
- Adequate legroom (34.5 inches) for typical adult comfort
Upholstery Options:
- Premium vegan leather throughout
- White or Black interior color choices
- Durable synthetic materials eliminating animal products
Cabin Features:
- Acoustic glass on all windows, including rear side windows
- Library-quiet cabin environment
- Advanced noise cancellation technology
- Three-zone climate control
- Interior air filtration system
- Extended cabin heating and cooling capability
Ambient Lighting and Design
The High-tech ambient lighting system creates an immersive cabin environment with customizable colors and intensity. The lighting adapts to driving modes and time of day, enhancing both safety and ambiance. This feature was largely absent from earlier Model 3 generations, representing one of the most appreciated improvements in the Highland refresh.
Storage and Practicality
Front Trunk (Frunk): 88 liters (3.1 cubic feet)
Rear Trunk: 594 liters (21 cubic feet)
Maximum Cargo (rear seats folded): 977 liters (34.5 cubic feet)
Total Combined: 682 liters with all seats in use
The dual-trunk design provides exceptional practicality for a sedan. The front trunk accommodates charging cables, emergency supplies, and valuables requiring secure storage. The rear trunk expands dramatically with the 60/40 split-folding rear seatback, making it suitable for larger cargo or small furniture.
Towing Capacity: 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs) with proper braking equipment
Technology and Infotainment
Primary Touchscreen Display
Central Screen: 15.4-inch ultra-high-resolution display
Response Time: Extremely responsive with fluid interface
Functions Controlled: Navigation, climate, vehicle settings, media, entertainment, charging status, vehicle diagnostics, camera feeds
The massive touchscreen serves as the command center for virtually all vehicle functions. While the minimalist approach eliminates traditional buttons, most owners adapt to the interface within days. The display responds instantly to touches, even when performing complex operations like navigation input or climate adjustments.
Rear Passenger Display
The Long Range AWD includes the sophisticated 8-inch rear touchscreen exclusively available on premium trims. This display provides rear passengers with independent control over climate, entertainment, and seat heating, significantly enhancing long-distance travel comfort.
Audio System
Premium Audio Package (Standard on Long Range):
- 17 high-quality speakers positioned throughout the cabin
- 2 dedicated subwoofers with independent amplifiers
- 2 amplifiers optimizing frequency distribution
- Immersive sound field processor creating spatial audio
The audio system delivers concert-quality sound reproduction, with particularly impressive bass response and treble clarity. Streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music integrate seamlessly with the display.
Connectivity Features
- Wi-Fi (5G capable on newer models)
- Bluetooth audio streaming
- Tesla mobile app integration for remote functions
- Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates delivered automatically overnight
- Navigation with real-time traffic integration
- Remote climate control (precondition cabin while still home)
- Remote charging status monitoring
- Sentry Mode with exterior camera recording
- Dog Mode: Keeps climate comfortable while parked with status displayed on screen
- Camp Mode: Enables sleeping in the car with climate management
Safety Features and Autopilot
The 2025 Model 3 Long Range achieved recognition as one of Europe’s safest cars, with exceptional crash test ratings across all categories.
Standard Autopilot Features
All Long Range AWD models come standard with Tesla Vision-based driver assistance:
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC): Maintains set speed while automatically adjusting following distance based on vehicle detection
Autosteer: Lane-keeping assistance that centers the vehicle in its lane using camera-detected lane markings
Active Safety Systems (All Standard):
- Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection
- Forward Collision Warning for vehicles ahead
- Side Collision Warning for adjacent traffic
- Blind Spot Monitoring with visual warnings
- Lane Departure Avoidance with corrective steering
- Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance
- Obstacle Aware Acceleration preventing unexpected surges
Optional Enhanced Capabilities
Enhanced Autopilot ($5,100):
- Navigate on Autopilot for highway lane changes and exit suggestions
- Automatic lane change initiation with turn signal confirmation
- Automatic parking assistance (parallel and perpendicular)
- Summon capability (remote vehicle movement)
- Smart Summon for retrieving parked vehicles
Full Self-Driving Capability ($8,000-$10,100):
- All Enhanced Autopilot features
- Traffic light and stop sign awareness
- City Street navigation with autonomous control
- Beta features continuously improving through software updates
Important Note: All Autopilot features require active driver attention and readiness to assume control. Tesla emphasizes these remain driver-assist systems, not autonomous driving systems, despite their sophistication.
Dimensions and Cargo Details
Interior Dimensions:
- Front Headroom: 40.3 inches
- Front Legroom: 42.7 inches
- Front Shoulder Room: 56.7 inches
- Rear Headroom: 37.8 inches
- Rear Legroom: 34.5 inches
- Rear Shoulder Room: 54.2 inches
The spacious interior comfortably accommodates adults in both rows with excellent comfort on extended drives. The low roofline characteristic of sports sedans creates surprisingly good headroom thanks to the sunroof opening and careful design.
Warranty Coverage
Tesla provides comprehensive protection for Long Range AWD owners, with extended coverage compared to RWD models:
Basic Vehicle Limited Warranty
- Duration: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Coverage: Manufacturing defects, materials quality, workmanship issues
- Transferable: Yes, to subsequent owners
- Exclusions: Normal wear and tear, collision damage, routine maintenance items
Battery and Drive Unit Warranty
- Duration: 8 years or 120,000 miles (extended from RWD’s 100,000 miles)
- Minimum Capacity Retention: Guaranteed 70% of original battery capacity
- Coverage Includes: Battery pack, drive unit components, power electronics, related systems
- Labor: Fully covered under warranty
Additional Warranty Coverage
- Parts and Labor: 12 months or 12,500 miles
- Sheet Metal and Paint: Limited lifetime warranty in most regions
- Rust and Corrosion: Extended coverage up to 12 years in many markets
Extended service agreements and gap insurance are available as optional add-ons for additional peace of mind.
Ownership Costs
Tesla Model 3 insurance costs average $1,258 annually during the first year for Long Range AWD models, increasing slightly over time as the vehicle ages:
5-Year Insurance Cost Estimate:
- Year 1: $1,258
- Year 2: $1,302
- Year 3: $1,348
- Year 4: $1,395
- Year 5: $1,444
- 5-Year Total: $6,747
Factors affecting insurance rates include driver age, location, driving record, credit score, and coverage level selected. Tesla’s own insurance program in select states bases premiums on real-time driving data and safety scores, potentially offering savings for safe drivers.
Charging Costs
Home Charging Economics:
- Full charge cost: $13.50-$19.50
- Daily 50-mile commute: $2.40-$3.00
- Monthly commute (1,000 miles): $48-$60
- Annual fuel equivalent cost: $576-$720
Compared to gasoline vehicles averaging $1,500+ annually in fuel costs, the Model 3 delivers substantial savings—potentially $800+ per year for typical drivers.
Supercharger Economics:
- Per kWh rate: $0.25-$0.60 depending on location
- Cross-country trip (3,000 miles): Approximately $200-$400 in Supercharger fees
- Daily road trips (100 miles): $5-$10 in fast-charging costs
Maintenance Costs
The Model 3 AWD requires minimal maintenance compared to combustion vehicles:
Typical Annual Costs:
- No oil changes required
- No transmission fluid changes
- No spark plugs to replace
- Brake fluid inspection: $150-$200 annually
- Cabin air filter replacement: $50-$100 every 2 years
- Tire rotation: $150-$250 annually
- Annual inspection: $0 (not required)
5-Year Ownership Estimate: $2,000-$3,000 in routine maintenance
Total Cost of Ownership
Combining insurance, electricity, and minimal maintenance, the long-term cost of Model 3 Long Range AWD ownership is remarkably economical. Factor in federal tax credits up to $7,500 (depending on region and eligibility), and the effective purchase price can drop to $36,630 or lower.
Driving Experience and Performance
The Model 3 Long Range AWD delivers one of the most engaging driving experiences in the electric sedan segment. The dual-motor AWD configuration creates a balanced, predictable handling character that rewards both spirited driving and daily commuting.
Acceleration and Power Delivery
The instant torque from dual motors means seamless, linear acceleration with absolutely no lag. Unlike traditional turbocharged engines that spool up gradually, the Model 3 AWD achieves full torque instantly from standstill. This makes highway merging, overtaking, and acceleration feel effortless and natural.
The 4.4-second 0-60 time proves faster than many BMW, Audi, and Mercedes performance variants, despite the Model 3’s modest price point. Real-world testing confirms these figures are genuine, not optimistic manufacturer claims.
Handling and Chassis Dynamics
The low center of gravity (thanks to floor-mounted batteries) and carefully tuned suspension geometry create responsive, confident handling through corners. The car remains planted on windy roads and communicates sufficient road feedback to inspire driver confidence.
The improved Highland generation suspension eliminates the harshness many complained about in earlier Model 3 versions. Bumps and potholes are managed gracefully without harsh impacts, while body roll is controlled effectively through corners.
Traction and All-Weather Capability
The AWD system shines in winter conditions and poor traction situations. Both motors work together seamlessly, distributing torque optimally to maintain traction on ice, snow, or slippery surfaces. Drivers consistently report confident handling in winter precipitation that would challenge even traditional AWD vehicles.
Regenerative braking is particularly powerful with the dual-motor setup, though it can be adjusted to “Low” for snow/ice driving to prevent unexpected braking surprises on slippery surfaces.
Noise and Refinement
The Highland refresh dramatically improved acoustic comfort. The acoustic glass, advanced sound dampening, and electric drivetrain combine to create a serene cabin environment. Road and wind noise remain evident at highway speeds but are substantially reduced compared to earlier Model 3 versions or competitive sedans.
Comparison with Competitors
vs. BMW i4 eDrive40
The BMW i4 starts around $70,000—26,000 more than the Model 3 Long Range AWD. The BMW offers superior traditional luxury feel, higher-quality interior materials, and Apple CarPlay integration. However, the Model 3 delivers better range, quicker acceleration, more advanced autonomous features, and access to Tesla’s unmatched Supercharger network.
Efficiency: Model 3 Long Range AWD is approximately 10% more efficient than the BMW i4 eDrive40 in real-world testing.
Range: Model 3 claims 346-421 miles vs. BMW’s 310 miles—a meaningful advantage on road trips.
vs. Hyundai IONIQ 6
The Hyundai IONIQ 6 starts at $39,095, making it $5,000 cheaper than the Model 3. Hyundai offers exceptional value with a stylish design and unique wedge shape. However, the IONIQ 6 is significantly less powerful (160 kW RWD vs. 366 kW AWD), and lacks the extensive charging infrastructure and autonomous features of the Model 3.
The IONIQ 6’s range claim of 610 km sounds impressive but represents WLTP estimates, which are typically optimistic. Real-world performance shows both vehicles achieving approximately 340+ miles of range.
vs. Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor
The Polestar 2 starts at $51,300—$7,000 more than the Model 3. Polestar offers Scandinavian design excellence, superior sound system, and Google-based infotainment. However, the Model 3 delivers superior acceleration (4.4 seconds vs. ~5 seconds), better range, more powerful charging (250 kW vs. 150 kW), and significantly faster real-world charging times.
Polestar’s interior finish appears more premium, but the Model 3’s technology advantage and efficiency leadership provide better long-term ownership value.
Pros and Cons
Strengths
✓ Exceptional Value: Starting at $44,130 with potential tax credits reducing effective price to $36,630
✓ Outstanding All-Weather Capability: AWD system provides confidence-inspiring traction in all conditions
✓ Impressive Performance: 4.4-second 0-60 mph matches many luxury performance cars
✓ Superior Charging Speed: 250 kW maximum faster than most competitors
✓ Extensive Range: Real-world 340+ miles meets most daily driving needs with margin
✓ Advanced Technology: Industry-leading Autopilot and autonomous features
✓ Low Operating Costs: Minimal maintenance and low electricity expenses
✓ Supercharger Network: Unmatched charging infrastructure access
✓ Premium Interior: Highland refresh brings significant cabin quality improvements
✓ Over-the-Air Updates: Continuous software improvements keep vehicle current
Considerations
⚠ Winter Range Reduction: Expect 30-40% range loss in cold weather
⚠ Touchscreen Dependency: Requires adaptation for those preferring physical controls
⚠ No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Limited to Tesla’s native interface
⚠ Above-Average Insurance: Higher premiums than comparable gasoline sedans
⚠ Moderate Towing Capacity: 1,000 kg limit is less than some competitors
⚠ Build Quality Variability: Occasional panel alignment or paint issues reported
⚠ Regenerative Braking Learning Curve: Takes time mastering one-pedal driving
Who Should Buy the Model 3 Long Range AWD?
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD is ideal for:
Performance-Focused Buyers seeking thrilling acceleration without luxury car pricing
All-Weather Drivers in cold climates or regions with variable weather requiring AWD confidence
Long-Distance Commuters needing superior range and fast charging capabilities
Tech Enthusiasts wanting cutting-edge autonomous features and continuous software improvements
Cost-Conscious Drivers prioritizing low operating expenses and minimal maintenance
First-Time EV Buyers seeking access to the industry’s best charging network
Practical Performers wanting sports car acceleration with sedan practicality and space
Final Verdict
The 2025 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD represents an outstanding value proposition in the electric sedan market. At $44,130 before incentives (potentially $36,630 after tax credits), it delivers performance, technology, and efficiency that would cost $70,000+ in traditional luxury performance vehicles.
The dual-motor AWD configuration transforms the driving experience, providing the acceleration thrills of entry-level performance cars with the all-weather confidence of traditional AWD systems. The Highland generation’s interior improvements—particularly acoustic refinement and ambient lighting—address previous generation complaints while maintaining the distinctive minimalist aesthetic.
Real-world testing confirms the 346-mile EPA range is achievable in mixed conditions, with highway real-world range around 250-280 miles. The 250 kW Supercharger capability means long road trips require minimal charging time, and the extensive Supercharger network eliminates range anxiety for most driving scenarios.
The only meaningful drawbacks are winter range reduction (typical for all EVs), higher insurance costs, and the reliance on the central touchscreen for all controls. These are minor concerns that shouldn’t deter buyers seeking an exceptional combination of performance, range, technology, and value.
For buyers considering an electric sedan with dual-motor AWD capability, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range should be at the top of your list. It delivers the most comprehensive package available at this price point, with none of its competitors matching its combination of acceleration, efficiency, charging speed, and autonomous capabilities.
The Model 3 Long Range AWD isn’t just a practical electric sedan—it’s a genuinely thrilling vehicle to drive that happens to be electric.
Tesla Supercharger V3 stations designed for fast charging of Model 3 and other Tesla vehicles