Tesla Model 3 II (Highland) (2023 – 2025)

Reliability score : 9.2/10

The Tesla Model 3 Generation II, internally known as 'Project Highland', represents the most significant update to the Model 3 since its initial launch. Introduced in late 2023 for Europe and Asia (built in Shanghai) and early 2024 for North America (built in Fremont), it focuses heavily on refinement rather than raw powertrain changes. The exterior features a sleeker, more aerodynamic front fascia (drag coefficient reduced to 0.219 Cd) and new taillights. Inside, the cabin is vastly improved with 360-degree acoustic glass for better NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) reduction, upgraded suspension for a more compliant ride, ventilated front seats, an 8-inch rear entertainment screen, and customizable ambient lighting. Controversially, Tesla removed all steering column stalks, moving tu

✅ Strengths

Vastly improved ride comfort and cabin quietness compared to the previous generation.
Exceptional energy efficiency and access to the reliable Tesla Supercharger network.
High build quality, especially on models manufactured in Giga Shanghai.
Generous standard equipment (ventilated seats, premium audio, rear screen, glass roof).
Hardware 4.0 cameras provide crisp visuals and future-proof the car for FSD updates.

⚠️ Weaknesses

Removal of steering column stalks makes indicating in roundabouts highly unintuitive and frustrating.
Tesla Vision (camera-only parking assist) is still inferior to traditional ultrasonic sensors in tight, dark, or wet conditions.
Wiper auto-sensing software can be erratic (wiping dry windshields or ignoring light rain).
Phantom braking on Autopilot/Traffic-Aware Cruise Control still occurs occasionally.
Minimal physical buttons; almost everything requires looking at the touchscreen.

🎯 Verdict

The Tesla Model 3 'Highland' (Generation II) is a masterclass in iterative improvement. Tesla addressed the biggest complaints of the first generation—harsh ride, cabin noise, and inconsistent build quality—resulting in a highly refined, efficient, and comfortable electric sedan. The powertrains remain the benchmark for efficiency and software integration. However, the relentless pursuit of minimalism has introduced new ergonomic flaws, most notably the removal of the turn signal stalks and reliance on camera-only parking sensors. If you can adapt to the stalkless steering wheel, the Model 3 RWD (LFP) is arguably the best value EV on the market today, while the Long Range versions offer unbeatable road-trip capability.