Doesn’t ge any better than this.
Acceleration is absurd ... even uphill. What seemed like three seconds of right foot left my wife woozy ... and the speedo at 70. Immediate response inspires enormous confidence when circumstances require a quick pass. A+ ... and a total blast.
Regular RWD Model 3 takes mountain curves as if on rails. AWD only helps. No chirping or skittering under full acceleration.
Beyond that, though, I don’t believe the P (without Performance Upgrade) delivers any particular advantages. Max performance drivers will want 20” wheels, upgraded summer tires, beefier brakes, lowered, track-friendly suspension, etc.
However, for the average amateur canyon carver, the base wheel/tire/suspension set-up offers a near-ideal compromise among conflicting comfort, handling, clearance, and tire wear/durability goals.
One surprise, inspired by questions from TMCers: I tried Chill Mode, which I’ve heretofore avoided like the plague. Turns out that it makes it even easier to deliver a smooth cruise, while still affording plenty of whoosh potential when needed. Put on a Sinatra tune and enjoyed it. A useful tool.
Of course, then promptly dialed up a catchier beat ... and Sport Mode!
If this isn’t the perfect car, it’s sure close. Definitely the most fun car I’ve ever driven!
Oh, and a P.S. The second generation of Model 3 seats is a noticeable improvement. More cushioned. Better cocooning for corners. Better fit for shorter drivers. And, more comfortable, to boot!
Acceleration is absurd ... even uphill. What seemed like three seconds of right foot left my wife woozy ... and the speedo at 70. Immediate response inspires enormous confidence when circumstances require a quick pass. A+ ... and a total blast.
Regular RWD Model 3 takes mountain curves as if on rails. AWD only helps. No chirping or skittering under full acceleration.
Beyond that, though, I don’t believe the P (without Performance Upgrade) delivers any particular advantages. Max performance drivers will want 20” wheels, upgraded summer tires, beefier brakes, lowered, track-friendly suspension, etc.
However, for the average amateur canyon carver, the base wheel/tire/suspension set-up offers a near-ideal compromise among conflicting comfort, handling, clearance, and tire wear/durability goals.
One surprise, inspired by questions from TMCers: I tried Chill Mode, which I’ve heretofore avoided like the plague. Turns out that it makes it even easier to deliver a smooth cruise, while still affording plenty of whoosh potential when needed. Put on a Sinatra tune and enjoyed it. A useful tool.
Of course, then promptly dialed up a catchier beat ... and Sport Mode!
If this isn’t the perfect car, it’s sure close. Definitely the most fun car I’ve ever driven!
Oh, and a P.S. The second generation of Model 3 seats is a noticeable improvement. More cushioned. Better cocooning for corners. Better fit for shorter drivers. And, more comfortable, to boot!
Last edited:
