Car of the Year Awards 2026: Executive Car of the Year
The past year has been one of substantial change: Donald Trump became the most powerful man in the world for the second time, the first AI-driven home helper robots went on sale, and Peppa Pig welcomed a new addition to the family. But one thing that hasn’t changed is that in the corporate car park, the Tesla Model 3 still rules the roost.
This is really a case of the best getting even better, though, because recent updates to Tesla’s electric saloon have given it a bigger battery and an even longer range. Indeed, in our favourite Long Range RWD (rear-wheel drive) form, the Model 3 can now officially cover up to 466 miles between charges. Not only that, but it’s even more efficient when covering those miles than the rival Mercedes CLA 250+ EQ, despite the fact that it can outsprint that car from a standstill to 62mph.
On country roads, the Model 3 offers impressive body control and greater ride comfort than you’d find in a BYD Seal, Hyundai Ioniq 6 or Polestar 2. The Model 3 feels keener to change direction than most rivals, too, with super-accurate steering allowing you to place the car exactly where you want it through corners.
While the Model 3 can be exciting, though, what’s equally impressive is how relaxing it can be, with better refinement than you’ll find among its rivals. Plus, the brakes are well judged, avoiding the grabbiness that afflicts some electric cars.
True, some rivals are able to charge at faster rates, but a 10-80% top-up can still take less than 30 minutes. Plus, Tesla owners have unfettered access to the brand’s growing network of Supercharger stations and are charged lower rates than drivers of other brands of electric cars.
Inside, the Model 3 still looks as futuristic as Tesla’s Optimus helper robot, due to its conspicuous absence of buttons; almost everything is controlled through its 15.4in central touchscreen. While this takes some getting used to, the system remains one of the best around, with crystal-clear graphics, tonnes of features and lightning-fast responses.
The Model 3’s interior is made of higher-quality materials than those in the CLA, and you won’t be left wanting for kit; adaptive cruise control, heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel are all standard, as is the ability to use your smartphone as a key.
Passengers will find they have more leg room in the back of the Model 3 than in the BMW i4 and Polestar 2, while the boot has plenty of storage space for all of their belongings. If you manage to fill that, there’s also a huge well under the boot floor and a separate storage area under the bonnet that’s ideal for storing your charging cables.
Despite plenty of new entrants coming to disturb the executive car class this year, then, none has managed to topple the Model 3 from its throne. The more things change…
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