Tesla Model 3: what it really costs to run in the UK
The car that redefined electric. Supercharger network, over-the-air updates, and performance that shames sports cars.
Based on 1,000 km (about 621 miles) a month on mixed roads. Prices: £20,000 for a 2–4-year-old one, up to £53,320 new. All assumptions →
Buying a 2–4-year-old Model 3 on finance
| Monthly cost | £/month |
|---|---|
| Loan payment (80% financed, 5% APR, 3 years) | £480 |
| Fuel / electricity | £38 |
| Insurance (estimate) | £58 |
| Road tax | £16 |
| Maintenance | £56 |
| Total per month | £648 |
| Over 3 years | £ |
|---|---|
| 20% deposit | £4,000 |
| 36 monthly costs | £23,344 |
| Total paid out | £27,344 |
| Minus estimated resale value (~55%) | −£11,000 |
| Net 3-year cost | £16,343 |
Leasing a new Model 3
| Monthly cost | £/month |
|---|---|
| Lease payment (typical deal: 36 months, 10,000 miles a year, upfront payment spread over the term) | £495 |
| Fuel / electricity | £38 |
| Insurance (estimate) | £156 |
| Road tax and maintenance | Usually included |
| Total per month | £689 |
Leasing compares a new car with buying a 2–4-year-old one, so the two are different cars. At the end of a lease you hand the car back; buying leaves you with the resale value, which is why buying is shown net.
Road tax
UK vehicle tax for a car this age is the flat standard rate, £200/yr, whatever its CO₂. Versions that cost over £40,000 new also pay £640/yr extra in years 2–6 (not included above).
CO₂: zero tailpipe emissions.
Engines
- Standard RWD 283hp
- Long Range AWD 353hp
- Performance AWD 460hp
Costs above use the first engine listed. Bigger engines cost more to buy, insure and fuel.
Why people choose the Model 3
- World-class Supercharger network across Europe
- Performance rivals genuine sports cars
- Software updates keep it current for years
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