TESLA MODEL 3

Four years on, has the one-time EV pace-setter still got it? We reveal all

- ALASTAIR CLEMENTS

WHY WE RAN IT To find out if an approved used car is the best route into Tesla ownership

I will admit to having had reservations about Tesla, and in particular the company's owner, so it was hard not to embark on Model 3 ownership without some negative preconceptions. But it's fair to say the car has comprehensively won me over, even if I have a few lingering doubts over its parentage.

After several months together, I've come to the conclusion that the Model 3 is an excellent appliance. If that sounds negative, it's not meant to: it inspires similar reliance and reverence as my unfailing Bosch dishwasher, 25-year-old Black & Decker Workmate and DeWalt drill, because it makes life easier.

The technology is initially overwhelming but swiftly becomes something you rely on: get into another car and you find yourself wondering why you have to unlock the doors, turn on the ignition, adjust your seat or connect your devices - or even steer, accelerate and brake, should you use Tesla's Enhanced Autopilot system (I prefer to stick to adaptive cruise control, which at least leaves me with the sense that I have an influence over my own destiny).