Tesla Model 3 Long Range 4×4 Facelift, 2021 EU Autopilot, 140000 km

Here is an outline of the benefits of the 2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD (Facelift, EU Spec) with Autopilot.

This is a pivotal car in Tesla’s lineup. The 2021 „Facelift“ (often called the „Refresh“ or „Project Highland“ precursor) introduced significant improvements over the 2017–2020 Model 3. Combined with the Long Range AWD drivetrain, it is widely considered the sweet spot of the Model 3 range for EU buyers.

I. The 2021 „Facelift“ Improvements (Key Differentiators)

The 2021 refresh (Q4 2020 onward) is the single most important reason to choose this over a 2019/2020 Model 3.

• Heat Pump (HVAC): The biggest efficiency upgrade. Replaces resistive heating. In EU winters, this can improve range by 10–20% compared to older Model 3s. Critical for Nordic/Alpine climates.

• Powered Trunk (Boot): Automatic open/close. A major convenience upgrade over the manual trunk of earlier models.

• Double-Glazed (Acoustic) Windows: Front and rear side windows are laminated. Significantly reduces wind and road noise at Autobahn speeds.

• Updated Center Console: Removes the glossy „fingerprint magnet“ piano black. Replaced with matte finish, sliding storage lid, and better phone dock.

• Chrome Delete (Black Trim): Window surrounds and door handles are now satin black. More modern, sportier look.

• New Aero Wheels: The „Power“ and „Sport“ wheels are more efficient and better looking than the older „Aero“ caps.

• Improved Headlights: Slightly revised optics with better beam pattern for EU roads.

• Octovalve & Superbottle: Improved thermal management system. Faster Supercharging and better battery preconditioning in cold weather.

II. Long Range AWD (4×4) Drivetrain

• Dual Motor AWD: Front and rear motors. Excellent traction in rain, snow, and ice. A genuine 4×4 for EU winters.

• 0–100 km/h in ~4.4 seconds: Extremely quick for a mid-size sedan. Instant torque, no lag.

• Range: ~580 km WLTP (with 18″ Aero wheels). Realistically 400–480 km in mixed EU driving. With the heat pump, winter range is much better than a 2019 LR RWD.

• 82 kWh Battery (Panasonic/LG): The 2021 LR AWD typically has the 82 kWh pack (vs. 75 kWh in older LR). This is the largest battery fitted to a Model 3 until the 2023 Highland.

• Supercharging: Up to 250 kW on V3 Superchargers. 10–80% in ~25 minutes. This is a massive advantage over the Model S 100D (140 kW).

• Efficiency: ~150–160 Wh/km in mixed driving. Far more efficient than a Model S. Lower running costs.

III. Autopilot (EU Spec)

Note: 2021 EU Model 3s shipped with HW3 (FSD Computer) as standard, even without FSD purchased. This is a huge benefit.

• Hardware 3 (HW3): All 2021 Model 3s have the FSD computer. This means the car is capable of receiving FSD features if you subscribe or purchase later.

• Standard Autopilot (Included):

  • Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC): Matches speed to car ahead.

  • Autosteer: Keeps car centered in lane on highways.

• Enhanced Autopilot / FSD (If Purchased):

  • Auto Lane Change: Tap indicator, car changes lanes.

  • Navigate on Autopilot (NoA): Automatic highway on-ramp to off-ramp.

  • Autopark: Self-parking in parallel and perpendicular spots.

  • Summon: Move car forward/backward via app.

  • Smart Summon: (Where legally available in EU) Car comes to you in a parking lot.

  • Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control: (Beta, EU-limited) Car stops automatically at red lights and stop signs.

• EU Regulatory Note: FSD in Europe is Level 2. Driver must supervise at all times. City FSD Beta is not available in most EU countries. However, HW3 means the car is future-proofed for when EU regulations catch up.

IV. Interior & Practicality

• Minimalist Interior: Single 15″ horizontal touchscreen. No instrument cluster. All controls via screen.

• Glass Roof (Panoramic): Standard. Increases headroom and gives a bright, airy cabin.

• Vegan Leather Seats: Standard. Durable and easy to clean.

• Heated Seats (Front & Rear): Standard on 2021 LR. Heated steering wheel also included (a 2021 addition).

• Large Storage: Frunk (front trunk) + deep rear trunk + under-floor storage. Hatchback? No—it’s a sedan, but the trunk is large.

• Rear Seat Space: Good for two adults. Three is tight. Children fine.

• Sentry Mode & Dashcam: Standard. 360° surveillance when parked. Built-in dashcam with USB drive.

• Phone Key / NFC Card: No traditional key. Use phone or card.

V. EU-Specific Benefits

• Type 2 / CCS2 Charging: Native EU standard. No adapters needed for AC or DC fast charging.

• Supercharger Network: Access to Tesla’s V3 250 kW network across Europe. Reliable, fast, and often cheaper than Ionity.

• Third-Party Charging: CCS2 native means full access to Ionity, Fastned, Allego, EnBW, etc. at full speed.

• Tax Benefits: In many EU countries (Germany, Netherlands, Norway, France), EVs get:

  • Reduced or zero road tax.

  • Low company car tax (BiK).

  • Congestion charge exemptions (London ULEZ, Milan Area C, etc.).

  • VAT deductions for businesses.

• Insurance: Often cheaper than a Model S due to lower repair costs and smaller size.

• Parking: Smaller than a Model S. Fits in tight EU city garages and street parking.

VI. Comparison: 2021 Model 3 LR AWD vs. 2019 Model S 100D

VII. Limitations to Note (For Context)

• No Air Suspension: Coil springs only. Ride is firm, especially on 19″ or 20″ wheels. Not as comfortable as a Model S.

• Road Noise: Improved with double-glazing, but still louder than a Model S at high speeds.

• Trunk Opening: Sedan-style trunk, not a hatchback. Loading large items is harder than a Model S.

• No Instrument Cluster: Speed and Autopilot status are on the center screen. Some drivers prefer a traditional cluster.

• Panel Gaps / Build Quality: Early 2021 cars still had some QC issues. Check carefully.

• Heat Pump Reliability: Early 2021 heat pumps had some failures (covered under warranty). Verify it works.

• FSD in EU: Still Level 2. No city FSD. Traffic Light Control is limited.

Summary Table: Key Benefits at a Glance

Verdict: The 2021 Model 3 Long Range AWD Facelift is arguably the best all-around used Tesla for EU buyers. It combines the efficiency of the heat pump, the speed of 250 kW charging, the safety of AWD, and the future-proofing of HW3—all in a package that is cheaper to run and easier to park than a Model S. It is ideal for daily commuters, families, and long-distance EU travelers who want modern tech without the price of a new Highland. The only reason to choose a Model S 100D over this is if you need the hatchback, air suspension, or free Supercharging.