Overview
The Tesla Model S stands as an impressive electric luxury sedan, boasting a range of over 400 miles and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under two seconds. Since its groundbreaking debut in 2012, the Model S has continually challenged established automakers with its innovative design and cutting-edge technology. In 2024, it remains a frontrunner in its segment, offering exceptional electric powertrains that deliver long range, rapid charging, and outstanding performance. While some owners have reported challenges with service center wait times, the Model S’s numerous advantages far outweigh any drawbacks, according to most owners.
What’s New for 2024?
Tesla operates outside the traditional model year cycle, and the 2024 Model S sees no significant alterations. Its last major update occurred in 2021, bringing forth exterior enhancements, a revamped interior, and the debut of the Plaid variant. Notably, the Model S has reverted to a conventional steering wheel as standard, with the controversial yoke now offered as a $1,000 option.
2024 Tesla Model S Models and Pricing
The 2024 Tesla Model S begins at $74,990 for the standard model, which includes all-wheel drive. For the high-performance Plaid version with three motors, the starting price is $89,990. Additional features can be added, such as the Enhanced Autopilot package for $6,000, offering extra driver assistance features (though not full self-driving despite its name), or the Full Self-Driving Capability package for $12,000, which still requires an attentive driver despite its title. As the starting price exceeds $55,000 for a new car (the SUV threshold is $80,000), the Model S does not currently qualify for any federal tax credit.
| 2024 Tesla Model S | MSRP |
| Model S | $74,990 |
| Model S Plaid | $89,990 |
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
Equipped with an electric motor for each axle, the Model S ensures constant all-wheel drive across its lineup. Acceleration varies from impressive to downright astonishing across the different models. The standard Model S showcases its agility as a sports sedan with precise steering and well-managed body movements. Drivers can select between heavy or light steering effort through two distinct settings, although neither significantly enhances road feedback. Regrettably, the yoke-style steering wheel option detracts from the driving experience, though a conventional steering wheel is available at no extra cost. On the road, the Model S delivers a comfortable ride, adept handling, and a composed demeanor, particularly during highway cruising.
Range and charging
In terms of range and charging speed, the Model S stands out among its competitors, particularly alongside the Lucid Air. The dual-motor Model S boasts an impressive 405-mile range on a single charge, while the Plaid model offers a still-respectable 359-mile range. These figures place the Model S among the top contenders in the electric vehicle market, with only the Lucid Air surpassing it with an astounding estimated range of 516 miles.
Utilizing a 250-kW charger at a Tesla Supercharger or other DC fast charging station, the Model S can achieve an 80% charge in just 30-40 minutes. While competing models also support DC fast charging, the Model S’s superior range means it tends to accumulate more miles per hour of charging compared to its counterparts with lower range capabilities. With a widespread network of over 50,000 charging stations globally, Tesla’s well-established Supercharger network significantly alleviates range anxiety for Model S owners.
Minimalist Interior
In the 2024 Model S, the dashboard primarily serves as a platform for the expansive 17-inch touchscreen, which dominates the interior space. Despite its lack of design flair, the touchscreen boasts crisp graphics and swift responses, making it a delightful feature for entertainment during downtime, with Tesla allowing streaming services like Netflix and Hulu when the car is parked.
However, given its price point, some may find the cabin’s luxury level lacking compared to competitors like Mercedes-Benz and Audi. While occupant space is adequate, with 35.5 inches of rear legroom similar to the smaller and more affordable Model 3, the Model S offers generous hip and shoulder room due to its broad dimensions.
Unlike some sedans with a deceptive fastback profile, the Model S features a genuine liftback design, with the entire rear panel opening like a wagon or hatchback.
This configuration provides ample luggage space, with 25 cubic feet behind the rear seats expanding to a spacious 61.4 cubic feet when the seats are folded flat. The large cargo opening facilitates easy loading and unloading of bulky items such as bikes, strollers, or TVs. Additionally, there’s a frunk with 3.1 cubic feet of storage space beneath the hood, equivalent to the size of a compact mini-fridge capable of holding up to 120 cans.
Distinct Exterior
Introduced in 2012, the Tesla Model S established the visual identity that defines the brand, maintaining a futuristic allure even today.
Its sleek lighting profile, aerodynamic silhouette, and distinctive wheel designs set it apart from traditional luxury vehicles. However, it’s important to address the well-known quality control challenges that have affected Tesla’s reputation.
Owners have cited issues such as inconsistent panel alignments, paint imperfections, and loose weather stripping, often observed in relatively new vehicles. Prospective buyers are advised to conduct a comprehensive inspection before finalizing their purchase to ensure satisfaction.
Battery And Efficiency
Both iterations of the Tesla Model S are powered by a 100-kWh battery, renowned for its efficient utilization of energy. The dual-motor variant achieves an impressive combined MPGe rating of 120, while the Plaid model maintains efficiency at 116 MPGe. In contrast, competitors from Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Audi fall short of the 100 MPGe mark. Practically speaking, this translates to the Model S offering extended range on a single charge and exhibiting lower energy consumption, resulting in more favorable electricity bills. Notably, the Lucid Air surpasses the Model S in efficiency, boasting an impressive rating of up to 137 MPGe.
4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty
Tesla offers a standard new-car warranty lasting four years or 50,000 miles, aligning with the industry standard for luxury vehicles. Additionally, the battery in the Model S is protected for eight years or up to 150,000 miles, providing peace of mind to owners. However, feedback regarding the reliability and maintenance costs of Tesla models has been varied. Some owners have reported extended wait times at service centers and challenges with parts availability, particularly in regions with high Tesla ownership but limited service infrastructure. These factors may lead to frustrations when seeking maintenance or repairs for the Model S.
Safety
The Tesla Model S has not undergone crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) since 2016, during which it achieved a 5-Star overall safety rating. In the most recent evaluations conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Model S received the highest “Good” rating across various Crashworthiness categories. However, it received an “Acceptable” rating in the “small overlap front” criteria.
Specifications
| Fuel Economy | N/A |
| Estimated EV Range | 405 Miles |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years or 50000 miles |
| 0-60 | 3.1 Seconds |
| Horsepower | N/A |
| Max Seating | 5 |
Dimensions, Weights & Capacities
| Curb Weight | 4560 lbs. |
| Front Head Room | 39.7 inches |
| Front Leg Room | 42.4 inches |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 5.0 inches |
| Overall Length | 197.7 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 58.4 inches |
| Trunk or Cargo Capacity | 61.4 cu.ft. |
| Turning Diameter | 40.7 feet |
| Wheel Base | 116.5 inches |
| Width with mirrors | 86.2 inches |
Mechanical
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| 1 speed | Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Available |
| Parking Assist System | Available |
Performance
| Engine | Dual AC Electric Motors |
| Estimated Electric Range | 405 miles |
| Battery Capacity | 100.00 kwh |
| Charge Time (240V) | N/A |
| 0 to 60 | 3.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 149 mph |
Technology
- Bluetooth Wireless Technology
- Cruise Control
- Hands Free Phone
- Navigation System
- Remote Keyless Entry
- Internet Access
- Push-Button Engine Start
- Smartphone Interface
- Touch Screen Monitor
- USB Port
- Voice Recognition System
- Real-Time Traffic Information