I Test Drove a 2025 Honda Accord Sport and a 2025 Tesla Model 3 Long Range, Just to Compare, But Honestly, the Accord Isn’t Even In the Same League

In the rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the shift towards electric vehicles has slowed, but it hasn't ground to a halt. 

It continues to be driven not just by technological advancements but by the genuine, often passionate, experiences of new owners. Check out Adarsh Parakh on the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club Facebook page. 

Driven By Passion 

At the young age of 21, Adarsh, a resident of India, purchased his first car, a Ford Freestyle, for a modest $10,000. From the very first drive, he was captivated by the idea of owning a Tesla. His conviction was unwavering, and he made a promise to himself: his next car would be a Tesla.

He says, "Five years ago at the age of 21, I bought my very first car in India, a Ford Freestyle that cost me around $10,000 brand new. The very first day I drove it, I told myself: my next car will be a Tesla."

"Fast forward to a few months ago, and I kept that promise. I got my first Tesla, a 2025 Model 3 Long Range, and the first drive made me realize nothing else in this price range even comes close. I even test-drove a 2025 Honda Accord Sport just to compare, but honestly, it wasn't even in the same league."

"The improvements in this new Model 3 over the previous one are massive. It feels like an entirely different car. The build quality speaks premium, the drive is on another level, and at least here in Dallas, the service experience has been excellent. And let me say cooled seats are an absolute game-changer." 

"The comfort is unmatched."

Adarsh's enthusiasm for Tesla extended to the future, as he expressed his anticipation for the Tesla Model Y Juniper. His playful regret of not waiting for this model was overshadowed by his excitement for the potential of owning another Tesla in the future.

"My only small regret is not waiting for the Tesla Model Y Juniper, but who cares. I'll probably grab one in a year or two, maybe for my future wife," he says with a wink and twinkle in his eye.

Let's Dive Deeper

It's a compelling testimonial from Adarsh offering a vivid illustration of this transition. His story encapsulates the journey from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to the cutting-edge realm of Tesla, highlighting the profound impact these electric machines are having on driving perception and expectation.

Imagine living in India, where at just 21, you can own your first car, a Ford Freestyle, for a modest $10,000. However, after the first drive, you are already dreaming about your next car, a Tesla. 

Adarsh's early conviction, born perhaps because of his age and an emerging awareness of automotive innovation, set the stage for a promise kept, a testament to the aspirational power of the Tesla brand.

Fast forward a few months.

Adarsh realized his ambition, taking delivery of his first Tesla—a Model 3 Long Range. His initial impression was nothing short of revelatory. "The first drive made me realize nothing else in this price range even comes close," he stated emphatically. 

This sentiment is particularly striking given the competitive nature of the sedan market. To put it into perspective, he even test-drove a 2025 Honda Accord Sport, a benchmark in its segment for performance and practicality, specifically for comparison. 

The Accord isn't in the same league.

Yet, the Accord, a highly respected vehicle in its own right, "Isn't in the same league" as the Tesla Model 3, according to Parakh. This direct comparison underscores Tesla's ability to redefine the driving experience, moving beyond conventional metrics to offer something distinctly superior in terms of instantaneous torque, silent operation, and advanced technology. 

The Tesla Model 3 Long Range first drive review from a fresh owner's perspective paints a picture of unparalleled satisfaction that resonates deeply.

One of the most significant takeaways from Adarsh's experience revolves around the dramatic evolution of the Model 3 itself. Tesla has been known for its iterative improvements, often implementing changes mid-production, but the recent updates to the Model 3, particularly the "Highland" refresh, have been substantial. 

Parakh observes, "The improvements in the new Tesla Model 3 over the previous one are massive. It feels like an entirely different car." This isn't merely a cosmetic facelift but a comprehensive enhancement that touches upon core aspects of the vehicle. Drivers are noticing significant refinements that contribute to a more premium feel and an elevated driving dynamic.

Central to this improved perception is the tangible quality of the vehicle. 

For years, Tesla faced criticism regarding inconsistent fit and finish. However, recent production refinements have largely addressed these concerns. Adarsh explicitly notes, "The Tesla Model 3 build quality speaks premium." 

His statement is crucial, signaling that Tesla has not only caught up to but, in the eyes of many new owners, surpassed established luxury brands in terms of perceived solidity and attention to detail. This leap in quality contributes significantly to the overall satisfaction and confidence that owners like Parakh now express.

The Cooled Seats are a Game-Changer

Beyond the fundamental improvements in drive and build, it's often the nuanced features that elevate a car from good to great. For Adarsh, one particular innovation stands out: "And let me just say… cooled seats are an absolute game-changer, Tesla." In climates like Dallas, where extreme heat is a regular challenge, ventilated or cooled seats are more than a luxury; they are a necessity for comfort. 

He Does Have One Regret

Adarsh expresses a minor, almost playful, regret: "My only small regret is not waiting for the Model Y Juniper." The Tesla Model Y Juniper anticipation is high among enthusiasts and potential buyers, with rumors and leaks suggesting a significant refresh for the popular crossover. This refresh, expected to bring many of the Model 3's "Highland" improvements to the Model Y, including updated styling, enhanced interior materials, and potentially further range optimizations, is indeed something to look forward to. 

His Will Be a Two-Tesla Household

However, his swift dismissal of this regret—"but who cares. I'll probably grab one in a year or two, maybe for my future wife"—speaks volumes about his current satisfaction with the Model 3 while also underscoring the brand loyalty Tesla cultivates. It suggests a future where Tesla vehicles remain a primary choice, perhaps even a multi-Tesla household.

The Sweet Taste Goes Away With A Poor Service Experience

Adarsh's positive experience extends beyond the vehicle itself to the ownership ecosystem, specifically the service aspect. "At least here in Dallas, the Tesla service experience has been excellent," he reported.

A seamless and responsive service experience is vital for customer satisfaction, and Parakh's testimonial indicates that Tesla is making significant strides in this critical area, particularly in key markets like Dallas. It reinforces the idea that owning a Tesla is not just about the car, but the entire support structure that comes with it.

In The End

Adarsh's journey from a humble Ford Freestyle to a cutting-edge Tesla Model 3 Long Range serves as a compelling case study of evolving automotive preferences and the profound impact of electric vehicle innovation. His detailed account underscores how Tesla is not only meeting but exceeding expectations in critical areas such as driving dynamics, build quality, and comfort-enhancing features like cooled seats. 

His anticipation for the Model Y Juniper further highlights the brand's ability to keep its customer base engaged and loyal. As the automotive world continues its inevitable march towards electrification, stories like Adarsh's will undoubtedly inspire many more to make the switch, experiencing for themselves the transformative power of a Tesla.

How About You?

Are you an ICE fan but are contemplating making the leap to an electric vehicle like a Tesla Model 3? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

Check out my Tesla Model 3 story: I Used to Bash EVs, ICE for life, But After Driving One, I Fell In Love, So I Bought This Tesla Model 3, But I’ll Continue To Bash the Cybertruck, the Thing is Ugly

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Adarsh Parakh