In what sense is the Model 3 seeming dated? It's still one of the best electric cars on important measures like range and efficiency. It also has access to hands down the best charging network and is well loved by its owners, despite the well-documented problems.
Bjørn Nyland's review of the 2022 Model 3 Performance [1] confirms your view that the Model 3 is absolutely not dated. He tests scores of EVs and still considers the Model 3 the best balance of comfort, features, technology, performance, etc. If anybody here is seriously concerned that the Model 3 may be "dated," I suggest watching the video below.
Eh, looks dated to me. But I had an early one for a while. They're everywhere (at this point I lump 3 & Y together since for all practical purposes they're the same design).
Range is okay, but Tesla overestimates. Mine lost about 1.2 miles of range for every mile driven, and as a practical matter it was more of a 200 mile car than a 300 mile car, unless you really wrung it out. There are a bunch of 300+ mile EVs either on the roads now or releasing in the next few months. The only Tesla that has a range worth bragging about is the 400 mile version of the Model S. I do look forward (hopefully!) to regular cars having that kind of range, instead of just the top end ones.
I personally think Tesla is playing with fire leaving the quality so low. Well over half of all Model 3s have to return for repair within the first month. That's terrible. Recall how long it's taken other domestic manufacturers to regain any kind of reputation for quality, and even then many people will never believe they make good cars. For what a Tesla costs, people have high expectations. They're enjoying fad status right now, and that's great, but there is no shortage of Tesla owners already who've sworn off ever buying another one.
