Consumer Reports now recommends the Tesla Model 3 after the automaker made improvements to the car’s brakes via an over-the-air update.
Consumer Reports said the Model 3’s stopping distance in initial tests of 152 feet from 60 mph was far worse than any contemporary car they have tested. Responding to the criticism, Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweeted that the company would “make sure all Model 3’s having amazing braking ability at no expense to customers.”
Following a software update, Consumer Reports found that the car’s braking distance improved by almost 20 feet.
“I’ve been at CR for 19 years and tested more than 1,000 cars and I’ve never seen a car that could improve its track performance with an over-the-air update,” said Jake Fisher, director of auto testing at Consumer Reports.
Musk tweeted thanks for the magazine’s critical feedback and noted that fixes for other complaints were either addressed or in the works.
Really appreciate the high quality critical feedback from @ConsumerReports. Road noise & ride comfort already addressed too. UI improvements coming via remote software update later this month. https://t.co/ZMLPJxmPlM
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 30, 2018
Consumer Reports had previously said the Model 3’s stiff ride, unsupportive rear seat, excessive wind noise at highway speeds, and touch screen controls hurt its road-test score. Musk said brakes and user interface improvements will be pushed to all Model 3s, but an improved windshield and suspension are “major ops.”
“Unless you’re really bothered by them, don’t replace,” he tweeted.
Braking & UI upgrades apply to all Model 3s. Improved windshield for aero noise & suspension for ride comfort are major ops. Unless you’re really bothered by them, don’t replace. Best way to improve ride is drop tire pressure to ~39 psi. 45 psi is best range, but lower comfort.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 30, 2018
He also said an upcoming version of software will enable drivers to report a bug or ask for a feature by pressing the voice button and saying “bug report” followed by issue description.
Consumer Reports said it will continue to evaluate updates and make changes to its scores as necessary.