New Model 3 Lease at $264/Month vs Used: Pros, Cons & Which to Choose
Hey everyone, Dennis here from DennisCW. If you're like many Tesla fans right now, you're eyeing those insane new Model 3 lease deals starting at just $264 a month. But should you go new or hunt for a used 2023 Model 3 in the $15-20k range? Today, I'm breaking it all down with a PSA-style comparison, inspired by a post from Cybertruck Guy. Not financial advice, but let's dive into the numbers, pros, cons, and what makes sense for a commuter car.
The New Model 3 Lease Deals Are Legit
These aren't clearance outliers—there's a solid inventory of 2025 Model 3s leasing for $265-$280/month. Lock one in with a Tesla referral code (link in bio/description) for 3 months of Full Self-Driving (FSD) free, plus potential 0.99% rates or other incentives.
Pros of New:
- 4-year warranty coverage.
- Latest tech, including the best FSD experience.
- Predictable depreciation—lease locks it in, no gamble on high-mileage wear.
- At the end of 3 years, buyout option (~$25k residual) if you love it.
If you're driving tons of miles anyway, leasing caps your risk.
Used Model 3: $15-20k Reality Check
Plenty of 2020-2023 Model 3s out there cheap, but payments might surprise you.
Hypothetical Financing Example:
- $15k loan, $3k down + taxes/fees.
- 60 months at 6% (used EV rates are higher).
- $290/month—barely more than the new lease!
After 5 years, you own it. But factor in:
Cons of Used:
- Shorter/no warranty.
- Potential maintenance (tires, battery health).
- Older tech/FSD.
- Higher interest rates.
| Aspect | New Lease ($264/mo) | Used Finance ($290/mo) |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | No (buyout option) | Yes after 5 years |
| Warranty | 4 years | Limited/none |
| Tech | Latest | Older |
| Depreciation Risk | Locked in | On you |
For commuters, new often wins on peace of mind.
Quick Hits: Other Tesla News
$160k Model S/X Signature Series – Who's Buying?
No shock sales are slow. It's a $30-40k markup over Plaid (post-$15k hike), with carbon ceramics (~$20k value), gold accents, and "1 of 250" plaque. No-resale clause like early Cybertrucks—$50k penalty or Tesla buyback first.
Buyers? Die-hard fans, Tesla execs/shareholders with cash. Financing at 5.09% (84 mo) or 6.45%. I'd rather Cyberbeast + Model Y for the same cash.
Rivian R2 vs Model Y: Size Matters
Real-world pics show R2's boxy advantages—more cargo, higher ride, 90° hatch vs Model Y's slope (hello, beeping trunk!). True SUV vibes, but no FSD equivalent yet.
10% More Range with UPRW Wheels
Unplugged Performance's new FF wheels: 241 Wh/mi stock → 219 Wh/mi (+30 miles on 300-mi pack). Check their range test video. Fits Model 3/Y—promo link here.
Resources & Deals
- Delivery Checklist: Inspect your new Tesla.
- Selling your EV? Plug offers $3-6k more (15-min quotes).
- Accessories: Jowua (game controller/mounts, code "DENNIS"), 3W Floor Mats (35% off "DENNIS35"), Magbak for rims/curb rash.
What do you think—lease new or buy used? Drop a comment! Use my referral for FSD perks.
Thanks for reading—subscribe for more deals. See you in the next one!
DennisCW – Just like deals.
