The 2019 Tesla Model 3 Mid Range achieves 123 MPG combined, a figure that redefines fuel economy for a performance sedan. It’s not about squeezing every last drop from gasoline; it’s about skipping the gas station, providing near-silent operation and instant torque, and minimizing your impact on the environment without losing driving enjoyment. The Model 3 Mid Range appealed to buyers ready to embrace electric vehicles, valuing technology, performance, and lower running costs.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers show its strengths: 128 MPG in the city, which reflects the regenerative braking system that captures energy during stop-and-go driving. Electric vehicles, and the Model 3, shine here. The 117 MPG highway rating is still exceptional, and it indicates aerodynamic efficiency and sustained power delivery at higher speeds. These numbers don’t translate directly to gasoline vehicles, and are an equivalent measure of electrical energy consumption. They show that the Model 3 Mid Range excels in urban environments while maintaining impressive efficiency on longer journeys.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Tesla Model 3 Mid Range at $600. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, a mix of city and highway miles, and the national average electricity price at the time of calculation. While that average electricity price might fluctuate, the Model 3 Mid Range delivers significant savings compared to a similar gasoline-powered car.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing, but real-world range and efficiency can vary. Factors like driving style, weather conditions (especially cold temperatures, which can reduce battery performance), and terrain all affect it. Quick acceleration and consistently high speeds use the battery faster. Drivers in colder climates should expect a noticeable reduction in range during winter. However, most owners find the Model 3 Mid Range provides usable range for daily commutes.

How it compares

Comparing the Model 3 Mid Range to other vehicles requires a change in thinking. A similar-sized and performing gasoline car, such as a BMW 330i (rated at 29 MPG combined), would have much higher fuel costs. Even hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius (rated at 52 MPG combined) are far behind the Model 3 Mid Range’s efficiency. Plug-in hybrids such as the Chevy Volt (106 MPGe combined) are closer, but still don’t match the Tesla’s all-electric powertrain. This comparison highlights the advantage of EV technology: lower running costs and zero tailpipe emissions, something Tesla buyers appreciate. You can review all Tesla fuel economy data to confirm this consistent brand advantage.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use regenerative braking. The Model 3’s “one-pedal driving” mode allows you to slow down by lifting off the accelerator, converting kinetic energy back into battery power. This is effective in city driving, maximizing efficiency and reducing brake wear.

Precondition the battery. Before leaving home, especially in cold weather, use the Tesla app to precondition the battery. This warms up the battery pack while plugged in, improving its performance and range and decreasing energy drain during driving.

Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing efficiency. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure, which is on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Regular tire pressure checks maximize range.

Reduce quick acceleration. The Model 3’s instant torque is fun, but frequent hard acceleration drains the battery fast. Smooth acceleration is more efficient and extends your range. Use “ludicrous mode” sparingly. Review the MODEL MPG across all years to see if other Model 3 variants suit your driving habits.

Use the in-car energy app. This shows the amount of energy being used by different systems, like the climate control. If maximizing range is important, reduce the HVAC and consider using seat heaters instead, which are more energy efficient.