The 2022 Tesla Model 3 is high-tech, comfortable, and efficient—but the 2021 Tesla Model 3 facelift is where the real changes occurred. If you care about aesthetics, technology, and range, then you’ll want to keep reading.

Tesla and Elon Musk are notoriously uncommunicative about automotive redesigns. But if you’re considering the purchase of a Tesla car, it’s worth considering which model best suits your needs. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that the 2021 Model 3 has all the essential features of the 2022 model.

So, should you buy now, or should you wait for a redesign? Here’s a quick explanation of the 2022 and 2021 Tesla Model 3, including changes, specs, and whether you should hold your breath for the next refresh. Your guide is

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Is the 2022 Tesla Model 3 redesigned?

No, the 2022 Tesla Model 3 was not redesigned—but there was a (very minor) facelift in 2021.

Here are a few of the standard features of the 2022 Tesla Model 3, base model:

Vegan all-black interior

Heated seats

12-way power adjustable front seats

Charging rate up to 170kW

Tinted glass roof with UV and infrared protection

15.4-inch infotainment screen with entertainment options

Eight high-res cameras outside the car

Wireless charging pads

Eight-speaker sound system

Smartphone integration for keyless entry or keyless NFC keycard

The base price is $48,490 MSRP. Optional upgrades can get you built-in navigation, a WiFi hotspot, and a 12-speaker Burmester premium audio system. The Tesla Model 3 also includes lifetime over-the-air updates. While Apple CarPlay is compatible, Android Auto is still not available.

On the LR (Long Range) trim for the Model 3, the charging rate goes up to 250 kW and the range is approximately 360 miles. Premium interior features include ambient lighting, an impressive audio system with Immersive Sound, and a free year of in-car streaming services. All this costs $55,990 MSRP.

The top-spec P (Performance) trim gets you performance brakes, a carbon fiber spoiler, and Track Mode software—all for $61,990 MSRP.

2022 Tesla Model 3 vs. 2021 Tesla Model 3: what changed?

There are several noticeable improvements to the 2021 Tesla Model 3, but they’re not groundbreaking performance upgrades. There’s also a slight price increase (about $600 more on all trim levels) between the model years.

Appearance and ease of use

There were no fundamental body design changes, although the 2021 Model 3 borrowed some popular features from the Model Y.

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 has no chrome strips. There’s a new and improved double glazing on the front side windows, which helps control road noise. The sun visors now have a magnetic snap. The steering wheel scroll wheels are now metal instead of plastic.

In the center console, the covering is now a matte gray finish and the lid slides instead of flips (a common complaint from owners of previous Model 3 cars). There’s new accent stitching on the cushions near the console. Overall, these features refine an already well-conceived driving experience.

Technology

The 2021 version of the Model 3 includes wireless charging pads as standard equipment, rather than a paid optional upgrade.

There are high-performance USB-C ports in the second row to allow passengers to quickly charge their devices. There’s an additional USB-A port in the glove compartment to accommodate dash cam footage or other USB devices in sentry mode. This compartment is PIN-code lockable, too.

Performance

The Tesla Model 3 facelift in 2021 introduced a slightly higher range (about 20 more miles for each trim level). Acceleration minimally approved, too, but not enough to write home about.

The new version borrows the heat pump system from the Model Y, too, which is a marked improvement.

One of the only drawbacks is the redesigned automatic trunk. Many drivers have reported problems with misalignment, as the trunk occasionally struggles to close.

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Should you buy a 2022 Tesla Model 3?

Given that there’s not a big difference between the 2022 and 2021, it may be worth buying a 2021 if you can find it.

However, there is a slight improvement in the 2021 Tesla Model 3 versus the 2020 and previous models.

Industry insiders say that we shouldn’t expect any serious redesigns to the Model 3 in the near future. Small refreshes may come down the pipe in 2024 or 2025, but they are unlikely to merit any delay in purchasing a Tesla.

Our advice: Don’t wait to buy. Go for a 2021 model with the tiny facelift, or save your money and find an older model and don’t tell anyone.

MORE: What is the maximum Tesla Model 3 range?

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