Tesla Model 3 Is Consumer Reports' Top EV Pick for 2020

 The Tesla Model 3 is Consumer Reports’ Top EV Pick for 2020. As a carmaker, Tesla made a notable rise in the organization’s auto brand rankings as well, racing up eight spots from its position last year. With these recent results, Tesla has inched closer to joining CR’s Top 10 auto companies list. 

Gaining Consumer Reports’ Top EV Pick title is no small feat for Tesla, primarily since the organization based its rankings from the results of its independent tests and data from thousands of its members. The Model 3 earned some of the highest overall scores in its category, as indicated by its place as Top EV Pick for 2020. Its scores in road tests, predicted reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety were also impressive.

In describing the Model 3, Consumer Reports stated that the all-electric sedan brings powerful performance in a sleek tech-focused package. The organization had kid words for the vehicle, though CR pointed out that the Model 3 has a pretty stiff ride and some wind noise. But considering the whole package, the Model 3’s advantages far outweigh its small disadvantages.

Credit: Tesla

“The Model 3 proves that EVs can challenge conventional upscale sedans by offering invigorating performance with a high-tech vibe. It boasts rapid acceleration that’s delivered in near silence, with instant passing power available at any speed and enough thrust to push the driver back into the seat. The car’s superb handling and quick, precise steering help it feel like a sports car. The Model 3 has excellent visibility and a stark interior dominated by a floating 15-inch touch screen that governs many controls. Its impressive road performance is diminished only by the stiff ride and notable wind noise. But its long range of 250 to 330 miles (depending on the version) and green credentials offset those drawbacks,” the organization wrote.

Apart from the Model 3’s award, Tesla also exhibited the most significant improvement among the carmakers ranked by Consumer Reports, moving up eight spots to claim 11th place in the organization’s list. Tesla's rise among the ranks may have to do with the increased reliability of the Model 3 and the Model S. Interestingly enough, Tesla stands as the lone American automaker close to Consumer Reports’ recent Top 10 list. The highest spots in the rankings are usually dominated by companies from Japan, South Korea, and Germany.

Consumer Reports senior director of automotive testing Jake Fisher stated in an interview with Bloomberg that a combination of performance and consumer satisfaction ultimately boosted Tesla in the organization’s rankings. “The vehicles perform phenomenally. People just love these vehicles,” he said.

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