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Real world range is tricky, because it’s so dependent on external factors like speed, temperature, weather, and so on.
That said, Tesla’s range estimates have always been optimistic—not quite best case scenario, but close. Other EV manufacturers have been more conservative with range claims.
The good news for you is that Southern California remains about the best environment for EV use, because it doesn’t get super cold (which is what really kills range). The bad news is that like all vehicles, EV efficiency goes way down at high speeds, which hurts range a lot. Cruising at 80 plus will cut into your range a fair bit.
It’s cool that you can rent more and more EVs these days. I would definitely rent a Model 3 and play around with it. Keep in mind though that the real killer app for the EV experience is home charging. That is the huge benefit that balances against the various downsides. Assuming a Model 3 has enough range for your daily commute, you may never need a Supercharger—and not having to stop for gas or charging is such a nice thing that when we replaced our Tesla my wife basically insisted on a car that could replicate that experience.
You may not get that with a rental if you don’t have a home charger, so just keep that in mind as you’re thinking about how it fits into your life.
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