Leasing a Tesla Model 3 is a cost-effective way to drive one of the UK’s top-selling EVs. We’ll help you compare the best lease deals on a Model 3 from a range of providers, with a range of options so you can tailor the lease to your needs.
The Model 3 is behind only the MG4 EV, Audi Q4 e-tronto and its sibling the Tesla Model Y when it comes to the best selling EVs in the UK. Its popularity is down to many factors, including its sleek design, performance and safety—it consistently scores high in safety ratings. And let’s face it, the profile of Tesla’s founder has probably contributed to a sale or two over the years.
The Model 3 is packed with useful tech, including features like autopilot, which makes driving both easier and potentially safer.
Leasing a Tesla Model 3 could be an option if you're not ready to commit to buying an EV outright. It lets you enjoy all these benefits for a fixed period, while keeping the flexibility to hand the car back at the end of the lease.
Best for: Drivers seeking a more modestly priced entry-level option that still offers the full Tesla experience. It still offers plenty of acceleration with sufficient range for most day trips and everyday commuting.
Maximum range (WLTP): 319 miles
0-60mph: In 5.9 seconds
Power consumption: 13.2 kWh/100km
Best for: Drivers who need extra range and want (marginally) quicker acceleration. If you take longer trips regularly, paying more for the Long Range may well be worth it.
Maximum range (WLTP): 390 miles
0-60mph: In 4.2 seconds
Official Power Consumption: 14.0 kWh/100km
Best for: Car enthusiasts who are happy to pay a bit more for high-speed acceleration and sporty handling. This thing can really go, just not as far as the Long Range variant.
Maximum range (WLTP): 328 miles
0-60mph: In 2.9 seconds (with rollout subtracted)
Official Power Consumption: 16.7 kWh/100km
The best spec for a Tesla Model 3 lease depends on your budget and just how much of Tesla’s famous silent-but-impressive acceleration you want. The Standard Range variant offers good value with a decent range and all the essential features, making it a popular choice for many.
If you're looking for a higher level of performance or a longer range, consider the Long Range or Performance models. These offer quicker acceleration and a longer battery life per charge. Of course, you’ll pay more for those benefits.
Maintenance inclusions depend on your specific lease agreement. Typically, Tesla leases don't include regular maintenance costs as standard, but you usually have the option to add these for an extra cost.
Tesla Model 3 leases typically range from 24 to 60 months. Shorter leases offer flexibility to upgrade sooner, which can be a popular choice when it comes to EVs that are often quickly surpassed by better new tech. On the other hand, a longer lease can reduce your monthly payments.
It may be possible to end your Tesla Model 3 lease early, but there will almost certainly be penalties for doing so. Just how much it will cost you will depend on your lease contract.
But one way or another, early termination fees can be substantial, as they are designed to cover the depreciation and potential loss of revenue from the lease.
If you think there's a chance you'll want to end your lease early, consider erring on the side of a shorter lease to begin with.
Paying a deposit on a Tesla Model 3 is not necessarily a requirement. But most drivers choose to make an initial payment of at least the equivalent of three months’ rental.
That said, in some cases you may be able to pay as little as one month’s rental upfront. Generally this option is only available to drivers with a high credit score.
Okay, so we’re naturally a bit biased on this question. But the reality is deciding whether to buy or lease a Tesla Model 3 depends on your personal and financial circumstances.
Leasing can work well if you want lower upfront costs and prefer to upgrade your car every few years without the hassle of selling it.
Buying might be better if you prefer to own your car (and maybe customise it) for a longer time and not worry about mileage limits and other restrictions leasing can bring.
We hope you choose a lease, but ultimately it comes down to what works best for you.
Yes, businesses can lease a Tesla Model 3. There may be tax advantages and cash flow benefits to a lease versus buying a car, but have a word with your accountant before you make a decision either way.