It’s important to first clarify a key detail: the „4×4“ terminology is not typically used by Tesla; they refer to their all-wheel-drive system as „Dual Motor.“ The „Highland“ is the project name for the refreshed Model 3.
Assuming you are referring to the 2025 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor with the „Highland“ update and the „Full Self-Driving“ (FSD) capability for the EU market, here is a detailed outline of its benefits, categorized for clarity.
Executive Summary
This vehicle represents the pinnacle of the mainstream Model 3 lineup, combining a significant aesthetic and comfort refresh (Highland) with the maximum available range, performance, and the most advanced (though not fully autonomous) driver-assistance system on the market.
1. Performance & Drivetrain Benefits (The „Long Range Dual Motor“ Advantage)
All-Weather Confidence (Dual Motor AWD): Two independent electric motors digitally control torque to the front and rear wheels. This provides superior traction, stability, and control in adverse conditions like rain, snow, and on slippery roads compared to rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
Exceptional Acceleration: The Dual Motor setup delivers instant, silent, and thrilling acceleration typical of high-performance EVs. It bridges the gap between everyday efficiency and sports-car-like speed (0-100 km/h in approximately 4.4 seconds).
Increased Efficiency: The dual-motor system is intelligent, often using only the more efficient rear motor during cruising to save energy, engaging the front motor only when needed for power or traction.
Longest Driving Range: The „Long Range“ battery is the largest available in the Model 3. You can expect up to 629 km (WLTP estimate) on a single charge, eliminating range anxiety for most long-distance trips and reducing the frequency of charging stops.
2. Design, Comfort & Refinement Benefits (The „Highland“ Update)
Sleeker Exterior Styling: Features a new, more aggressive front end with slimmer headlights, redesigned rear lights, and improved aerodynamics (Cd of just 0.219), contributing to its extended range.
Premium and Quieter Interior:
Ventilated Front Seats: A highly requested feature that significantly increases comfort in both hot and cold weather.
Customizable Ambient Lighting: A full-width light strip adds a modern, premium feel and allows personalization of the cabin’s ambiance.
Acoustic Glass: Enhanced sound dampening throughout the cabin makes it one of the quietest and most refined vehicles in its class.
Premium Rear Seats: A new 8″ touchscreen for rear passengers controls climate, media, and entertainment.
Upgraded Suspension: Retuned springs and dampers provide a more comfortable and compliant ride, better absorbing road imperfections without sacrificing handling sharpness.
3. Technology & Infotainment Benefits
The „Full Self-Driving“ (FSD) Capability Suite: This is the primary benefit of your specified package. In the EU, FSD includes:
Autopilot: Basic lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control.
Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) Features: Navigate on Autopilot (suggests and makes lane changes, navigates interchanges), Auto Lane Change, Autopark, Summon, and Smart Summon.
FSD-Beta Software (City Streets): The most advanced level, which attempts to handle city driving by stopping at traffic lights and stop signs and making turns. Crucially, this is a „SAE Level 2“ system, meaning the driver must remain fully attentive and ready to take over at all times. It is a sophisticated driver-assistance system, not a true autonomous driver.
High-Resolution Display & Powerful Computer: The central 15.4″ touchscreen is responsive and intuitive, controlling all vehicle functions. It’s powered by a powerful processor capable of handling gaming, video streaming, and the complex computations required for FSD.
Premium Audio System: A custom-built immersive sound system with multiple speakers, subwoofer, and amplifiers provides a concert-hall-like audio experience.
4. Ownership & Practicality Benefits
Extremely Low „Fuel“ Cost: Charging with electricity, especially at home overnight, is vastly cheaper per kilometer than gasoline or diesel.
Reduced Maintenance: No engine oil changes, spark plugs, fuel filters, or complex transmission repairs. Maintenance is typically limited to tire rotations, brake fluid checks, and cabin air filter replacements.
High Safety Ratings: The Model 3 has consistently achieved 5-star Euro NCAP safety ratings. Its rigid structure, low center of gravity, and advanced active safety features (standard with FSD) provide excellent occupant protection.
Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: The car continuously improves. Tesla regularly releases software updates that can enhance performance, add new features, and improve the FSD system without a visit to a service center.
Spacious Cargo Area: Offers both a front trunk („frunk“) and a large rear trunk, providing more combined cargo space than many sedans in its class.
Summary of Key Benefits:
| Category | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Performance | All-Wheel Drive traction, long 629 km range, thrilling acceleration. |
| Comfort/Design | Quieter, more refined ride, ventilated seats, premium ambient lighting. |
| Technology | Full Self-Driving capability (driver-assist suite), high-tech rear screen, premium audio. |
| Ownership | Low running costs, minimal maintenance, continuous OTA updates, top safety. |
Important Consideration:
The value of the FSD package is a key consideration. It is a significant upfront cost. For some buyers, subscribing to FSD (if available in their region) or sticking with the included standard Autopilot might be a more cost-effective choice, as the core driving experience of the Model 3 Long Range „Highland“ is exceptional even without it.