My first experience with the Tesla brand dates back to 2010, when I was one of the few media representatives to drive the original Tesla Roadster, imported by a dealer in Singapore. Fast forward, and now I’m behind the wheel of the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, and I am genuinely impressed with how the brand has evolved.
A Sedan That Drives Like Something More
After a short experience with the Model Y during a recent shoot, I just had to get myself behind the wheel of the Model 3. Tesla Singapore was kind enough to arrange a week-long drive in the latest Long Range variant. Rear-wheel-drive, more power (315 bhp) than the two other RWD models, and a lighter battery despite having more range; the specs alone were tantalising.
From the moment I set off, the Model 3 Long Range felt properly sorted. The turn-in is sharp, the handling is poised, and the suspension and damping tell you that this is no half-baked EV. Steering weight is good, so the car responds to direction changes with purpose. On Singapore roads, that quick reflex translates into confidence even when you’re weaving through traffic or tackling tighter corners.
Ageing EV stereotypes of floaty ride and vague steering do not apply here. At the same time, the ride is comfortable for daily use. It strikes a delicate balance between dynamics and usability.
Real-World Range That Surprised Me
According to the official specifications, the Model 3 Long Range is capable of travelling up to 750 km in WLTP terms, provided the right wheels (18-inch) and conditions are met. Our test car had the sexy 19s (so 691 km instead). During my time with it, I used 30% of the battery and achieved nearly 180 km, which, based on rough maths, suggests a real-world range of more than 600 km. That is wild for a sedan.
Of course, real-world driving in Singapore, with air conditioning, traffic, heat, and stops, means you will encounter variation. However, hitting that kind of distance gives you confidence that this car can handle long drives, not just the daily commute.
Brand Evolution and Presence
Tesla is now part of the mainstream conversation. Back then, the Roadster felt novel and niche. Today, the Model 3 carries the “best-selling sedan in Singapore” tag for good reason. It has matured in all the right ways. The brand has gained traction, the network has expanded, and the car itself feels more reasoned rather than over-hyped.
What It’s Like on the Road
In everyday driving, the Model 3 Long Range gives you the best of both worlds. Quiet and refined at moderate speeds, and when you press on, you feel the immediacy of electric torque. There is less drama than in the older Roadster days, but more finesse in how everything works together. Handling, steering and ride all feel cohesive. If you enjoy performance and you also want a practical, grown-up car, this ticks a lot of boxes.
Why It Matters in Singapore
For the Singapore market, the sedan form-factor still has appeal. The Model 3 combines that with EV benefits. Given how often I write about performance cars, electric cars and innovation, having this level of performance in a sedan is notable. The fact that it remains the best-selling sedan shows it makes sense to buyers here. It also presents a solution to those who have range anxiety when travelling in Malaysia. Now you can easily drive to KL or even Ipoh on a single charge.
Final Thoughts
Many electric cars require you to adapt your mindset. The Model 3 Long Range doesn’t feel like a compromise. It feels like a genuine evolution. From my early days driving the Roadster to now piloting this car, Tesla’s journey has been credible, and the Model 3 Long Range is the strongest chapter yet. If you are looking for a performance-oriented EV sedan that delivers and is reliable for daily use, I recommend giving this a strong look.
Technical Specifications
Tesla Model 3 Long Range (A)
Powertrain: Electric Motor | Rear Wheel Drive
Power: 315 bhp
Battery Type: Long Range
Torque: 450 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 5.2 Seconds
Weight: 1,747 kg
Battery Capacity: 84 kWh
Drive Range: 750 km on 18-inch wheels | 691 km on 19-inch wheels (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 7.4km/kWh (claimed)
Price: S$217,216 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Photo Credits: Joel Tam (@joel_tam)
