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I think you're right. I'm trying to alter my perception of what we need versus what we want, as the Model 3 is intriguing and I'd like to find a way to make it work for how I use my car (or for how my wife uses hers, since it realistically could replace either).
For regular commuting, there's no question. It would work great and be very convenient, especially since my wife no longer has any long days in the car anymore.
For long trips, we can always take the other car (the truck doesn't count... it has a specific need - towing and hauling - outside of which it's never used).
The question is, does it make sense. From a strictly cost-related point of view, even the cheapest number I've seen thrown out for the 3 ($35k?) makes it a hard sell if it's replacing a $25k GTI or similar car. Then there's the repair / maintenance aspect. Keeping it out of warranty isn't an option, because there's essentially no way to repair it without paying Tesla to do it. So it's purchase an extended warranty (with really bad terms, if Tesla holds on what they just released) or sell. Depreciation on the Model S has been at the poor end when compared to other premium cars. So the total cost of ownership is going to be pretty high as it's not a car we'd likely own for a couple hundred thousand miles before selling.
Another issue is the driving engagement one. The Model S is, for me at least, simply not fun to drive. Part of that is because it's big. But most of it is because it feels like an appliance. It's very fast, but it's missing the steering, brake, and chassis feel that makes a good car good. Will the 3 be better? It's a big unknown right now. It certainly can't replace something like the Boxster. A GTI? Maybe.
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