Tesla has done it again! The Model 3 ‘Highland’ has officially been named Edmunds’ Top Rated EV of 2025, solidifying its place as the best all-around electric vehicle on the market. This prestigious award comes after rigorous testing and comparisons against other top EVs, proving that Tesla’s latest iteration of the Model 3 is in a league of its own.
So, what makes the Highland edition so special? Why is it outshining competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 6, Polestar 2, and even its own sibling, the Model Y? If you’re in the market for an EV that blends luxury, performance, and cutting-edge tech, the Model 3 Highland might just be your dream car.
Let’s dive into the game-changing upgrades that helped Tesla clinch this major victory.
The ‘Highland’ Evolution: A Major Upgrade for the Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 has been a dominant force in the EV world since its debut, but the Highland refresh takes it to a whole new level. Unlike minor updates in previous years, this 2025 version is practically a whole new car.
Here’s what makes the Highland stand out:
Sleeker, More Aggressive Design – Tesla gave the Model 3 a sportier front-end, new headlights, and a more aerodynamic body for improved efficiency.
Upgraded Interior – The cabin now has a luxury feel with soft-touch materials, ventilated seats, and a new customizable ambient lighting system.
Redesigned Suspension – Improved ride comfort and better handling make the Highland the smoothest-riding Model 3 ever.
More Range, More Efficiency – Thanks to aerodynamic improvements and better battery technology, the Highland boasts longer range per charge than previous versions.
Quieter Cabin – Tesla added more soundproofing to give drivers a near-silent ride—a major win for those who love a premium experience.
These upgrades aren’t just minor tweaks—they redefine what an affordable luxury EV should be.
Why Edmunds Crowned the Model 3 Highland the Best EV of 2025
Every year, Edmunds tests the best EVs on the market, analyzing factors like performance, efficiency, technology, comfort, and overall value. After thousands of miles of real-world testing, the Model 3 Highland came out on top.
Here’s why it won:
Unmatched Driving Experience – The Highland’s improved suspension and refined steering give it a sporty-yet-smooth ride that competitors can’t match.
Incredible Efficiency & Range – With better aerodynamics and energy management, the Highland goes further per charge than nearly any EV in its class.
Tesla’s Best-In-Class Tech – The 15-inch center touchscreen, over-the-air updates, and industry-leading Autopilot system give the Model 3 Highland an edge over legacy automakers.
Affordability Meets Luxury – With a starting price lower than many competitors while offering more premium features, it’s the best value-for-money EV in the world.
Edmunds summed it up perfectly:
“The Tesla Model 3 Highland raises the bar yet again. No other EV in 2025 matches its blend of technology, range, efficiency, and affordability. It’s a true game-changer.”
That’s a huge endorsement from one of the most trusted automotive review sites in the industry.
How Does the Model 3 Highland Compare to Rivals?
To earn the title of ‘Best EV of 2025,’ the Model 3 Highland had to beat out some of the strongest contenders on the market. Here’s how it stacks up:
Model 3 Highland vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6
Ioniq 6 Strengths: Unique design, great efficiency, smooth ride.
Model 3 Highland Wins: Faster acceleration, superior software, better charging network, and more engaging driving dynamics.
Model 3 Highland vs. Polestar 2
Polestar 2 Strengths: Scandinavian luxury design, solid driving feel.
Model 3 Highland Wins: Longer range, better efficiency, more advanced self-driving tech, and lower starting price.
Model 3 Highland vs. Model Y
Model Y Strengths: More cargo space, great for families.
Model 3 Highland Wins: Better aerodynamics, quieter cabin, more refined driving experience.
Tesla didn’t just update the Model 3—they made it the best EV of the year.
The Future of Tesla: What This Means for the EV Market
With the Model 3 Highland dominating the competition, Tesla is forcing every other automaker to step up their game. Legacy brands like Ford, Volkswagen, and BMW are already racing to match Tesla’s efficiency and technology—but so far, nobody’s catching up.
What does this mean for the future?
Lower EV prices as competitors try to keep up with Tesla’s cost-cutting innovations.
Faster charging networks as more companies realize they need to match Tesla’s Supercharger supremacy.
More software-driven vehicles, since Tesla has proven that over-the-air updates give customers a constantly improving car.
The Model 3 Highland isn’t just the best EV of 2025—it’s the car that’s shaping the entire future of electric vehicles.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Model 3 Highland?
If you’re looking for an EV that blends luxury, technology, range, and affordability, the Tesla Model 3 Highland is the ultimate choice.
It’s faster, more efficient, and more comfortable than any Model 3 before it.
It’s packed with industry-leading tech, from Autopilot to Tesla’s unbeatable charging network.
It just won Edmunds’ ‘Top Rated EV of 2025’ award, proving it’s the best in its class.
With Tesla constantly pushing boundaries in innovation, owning a Model 3 Highland means driving the future—today.
Would you buy the new Model 3 Highland? Let us know in the comments!