Tesla Model 3 single vs. dual-motor; which should you buy?

Tesla Model 3

Tesla Model 3 single vs. dual-motor; which should you buy?

 

Gone are the days when electric car models were few. However, with the increasing choices come a responsibility: choosing which Tesla model and which Tesla trim version to buy! For example, if you are eyeing the Tesla Model 3, which version is the best for you? In this article, we help you decide whether the single or dual-motor version is better for you.

About the Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is the most affordable car in Tesla’s product line. It is the bestselling electric car in the world.

Tesla currently offers three versions of the Model 3; the Rear-Wheel Drive and Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive (Long Range and Performance). The top trim offers up to 575 km on a single charge and a top speed of 261 km/h. It will complete 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds.

The interior is minimal but comfortable. One signature feature is the touch-enabled center console which serves as the instrument cluster, access to settings, entertainment features, etc.

However, should you buy the single or dual motor version of the Tesla Model 3?

 

Should you buy the single or dual-motor Tesla Model 3?

When you are deciding whether your new Tesla Model 3 should be single or dual-motor, there are several things that you should consider. Your final choice depends on which of these factors are the most important to you; driving range, speed, handling, and pricing.

 

Driving range

For many EV drivers, the driving range is very important due to their needs. If you need your car to last as long as possible before you need to charge it, then you choose to buy the Dual Motor Long Range, which offers 535 km between charges. In comparison, the single motor Rear-Wheel Drive version offers only 430 km. Even the dual motor Performance offers more driving range, as mentioned earlier.

The dual motor versions come with bigger battery packs, making them more enduring on the road.

If you regularly drive long distances or live in places where the temperature drops during part of the year, you will appreciate the additional driving miles on the dual motor versions of the Tesla Model 3. However, if you would be driving in your city most of the time, the single motor is good enough.

 

Speed

If you want your Tesla Model 3 to be as fast as possible, you should get the dual-motor; the Performance version, to be precise. The extra motor adds more horsepower and torque, allowing you to overtake other cars on the road quickly.

The Performance version is capable of 261 km/h top speed, compared to 225 km/h for the single motor. The latter will take 6.1 to accelerate from rest to 100 km/h, while the former only needs 3.3 seconds. The Long Range dual-motor is also better than the single motor as it takes 4.4 seconds and offers a 233 km/h top speed.

Whichever model you get, remember to drive safely and avoid overspeeding!

 

Handling

All-Wheel Drive cars are more suited for challenging road conditions. For example, if you are driving on a slippery road covered with snow, the dual-motor can grip the road better. The extra weight of the larger battery pack means the car stays more balanced.

 

Prix

For many buyers, the cost is the most critical factor. Naturally, the single motor version costs less. According to Tesla’s website, the single motor starts at $61,980, while the Long Range (dual motor) starts at $76,990. The Performance (dual motor) starts at $83,990.

However, if you are not averse to used models, you will be able to find your Model 3 for much less on Tesladrive Canada. You may also research the EV incentives you may qualify for in your province.

 

Conclusion

The Model 3 is a capable car made by Tesla. Whether you should get the single or dual motor model depends on several factors, including driving range, speed, handling, and cost.