Here is a detailed outline of the benefits of owning a 2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range (Dual Motor) with EU Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability.
This specific configuration is often referred to as the „Goldilocks“ Tesla. It represents the pinnacle of the pre-refresh Model 3 lineup, combining the efficient, sporty design of the Model 3 with the maximum practical range and the complete suite of Tesla’s automated driving features.
1. The „Sweet Spot“ Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Pace
Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive: The „4×4“ provides outstanding traction and stability. Whether navigating a rainy German Autobahn or snowy passes in the Alps, the AWD system inspires confidence that a rear-wheel-drive car cannot match.
The Perfect Performance Balance: The Long Range AWD is deceptively fast. With an approximate 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 4.4 seconds, it offers „ludicrous“ acceleration for real-world overtaking, but without the higher price, reduced range, or increased tire wear of the full-blown Performance model.
Maximum Range Champion: As a „Long Range“ model, this 2020 version benefits from ongoing efficiency improvements. It offers one of the highest ranges in the entire Tesla lineup (EPA-estimated approx. 322 miles / 518 km), making it arguably the best road-trip EV on the market.
2. The „EU FSD“ (Full Self-Driving) Advantage
A 2020 Model 3 is technically advanced (Hardware 3.0), and having the FSD suite unlocked transforms the driving experience.
Enhanced Autopilot Suite: You get the full suite of advanced convenience features:
Navigate on Autopilot: Active guidance from on-ramp to off-ramp, including interchanges and overtaking slower vehicles.
Auto Lane Change: The car will change lanes automatically when you engage the turn signal, or by itself during Navigate on Autopilot.
Autopark: The car handles parallel and perpendicular parking maneuvers effortlessly.
Summon / Smart Summon: Move the car in and out of tight spaces or have it navigate a parking lot to find you (where regulations permit).
City Driving (FSD Beta): While subject to strict EU regulations, the 2020 Hardware 3 computer is capable of running the more advanced FSD Beta software (where active), which handles traffic lights, roundabouts, and complex urban intersections.
Visualization: The dash display shows an impressive real-time 3D rendering of the world around the car, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, traffic cones, and road markings.
Future-Proofing: Because FSD is attached to the car (not the owner), you are buying a piece of appreciating software. The new owner benefits from any future updates and feature expansions without paying the current high upgrade cost.
3. Driving Dynamics & Handling
The Go-Kart Feel: The Model 3 is significantly lighter and smaller than the Model S or X. It handles more like a sports saloon than a family car, with sharp steering and minimal body roll.
Low Center of Gravity: The battery pack under the floor gives the car a planted, stable feel, allowing it to carve through corners with surprising agility.
Regen Braking: The one-pedal driving experience in the Model 3 is class-leading. It allows for smooth, efficient, and almost effortless driving in stop-and-go traffic.
4. Practicality for Daily Life
Front & Rear Trunks: The Model 3 offers a surprising amount of storage. There is a deep main trunk, a wide trunk opening for bulky items, and a useful frunk for storing the charging cable or a small suitcase.
Fold-Flat Seats: The rear seats fold down 60/40, allowing you to carry longer items like skis, snowboards, or flat-pack furniture while still seating passengers.
Rear Seat Room: While not as spacious as a Model S, the Model 3 comfortably seats four adults (or five at a pinch). The glass roof continues overhead, giving the cabin an airy, open feel for rear passengers.
Dog-Friendly: The spacious cabin and climate control system make it excellent for traveling with pets.
5. Technology & User Experience
Hardware 3 (HW3) Computer: By 2020, Tesla was installing its custom FSD computer (HW3). This is significantly faster and more capable than the older HW2.5, ensuring the infotainment system remains snappy and that future software updates are supported.
Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: The car continually improves. You wake up to new features, improved range, faster charging, and UI enhancements—just like a smartphone.
Supercharger Network: As a 2020 EU car, it uses the CCS2 connector, giving you seamless access to the vast, reliable, and fast Tesla Supercharger network across Europe.
Mobile App: The Tesla app is the gold standard for EV connectivity. You can precondition the cabin (defrost in winter, cool in summer), lock/unlock, locate the car, and start charging from your phone.
Premium Audio: The 2020 Long Range Model 3 came with the premium sound system (14 speakers, 1 subwoofer, 2 amps), which is widely regarded as one of the best in any car under €100k.
6. Ownership Costs & Efficiency
Low Maintenance: No oil changes, no spark plugs, no timing belts. Regenerative braking dramatically reduces brake pad wear.
Industry-Leading Efficiency: The Model 3 is one of the most energy-efficient EVs ever made. You will use fewer kilowatt-hours per mile than almost any other electric car, saving you money on home charging and Supercharging.
Tax Incentives: Depending on your EU country, a 2020 EV may still qualify for reduced road tax, congestion charge exemptions, and lower company car tax (Benefit-in-Kind) rates.
7. The 2020 Model Year Advantages
Mature Platform: The 2020 model year represents the „final form“ of the original Model 3 before the 2021 refresh. It had all the bugs ironed out.
Heat Pump (Late 2020): If this is a late 2020 build (production after Q3 2020), it may include the heat pump HVAC system. This significantly improves winter range efficiency compared to earlier resistive-heating models, making it an even better cold-weather daily driver.
Charging Speed: The 2020 Model 3 can Supercharge at rates up to 250 kW (on V3 Superchargers), allowing you to add up to 175 miles of range in just 15 minutes.
Summary
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD is the rational enthusiast’s choice. It delivers thrilling performance, the highest possible range, and the grip of all-wheel drive in a relatively compact, sporty package. Adding the EU FSD package unlocks the full potential of its Hardware 3 computer, providing the most advanced driver-assist features available. It is a car that is fun to drive on a back road, effortless to commute in, and cheaper to run than a comparable petrol saloon.