Tesla Model S: Specs, Range, Used Prices & Review

Base MSRP :~ $84,990

The Tesla Model S is a full-size electric liftback built for drivers who want long driving range, rapid acceleration, large cargo capacity, and access to Tesla’s charging and software ecosystem in a low-slung luxury car.

It suits long-distance EV drivers, performance-focused buyers, technology fans, and used-car shoppers who want more space and range than a Tesla Model 3.

Tesla ended Model S production in 2026. Tesla’s official Model S page now states that the vehicle is no longer in production, although pre-owned and remaining inventory vehicles may still be available. This makes the Model S primarily a used-car purchase rather than a conventional new-car option.

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Key Highlights

Market Status: Discontinued in 2026
Production Period: 2012–2026
Body Type: Full-size electric liftback sedan
Seats: 5
Final Main Versions: Model S AWD and Model S Plaid
Powertrain: Dual-motor or tri-motor electric AWD
Peak Power: 670 hp or 1,020 hp
Best EPA-Estimated Range: 410 miles
Fastest 0–60 MPH Time: 1.99 seconds for Model S Plaid
Maximum Supercharging Rate: 250 kW
Cargo Capacity: Approximately 28.2 cu ft with the rear seats in use
Best For: Long-distance EV drivers, performance buyers, Tesla enthusiasts, and shoppers seeking a spacious electric liftback

Specifications

Spec	Details
Brand	Tesla
Model	Model S
Vehicle Type	Full-size electric liftback
Body Style	4-door liftback sedan
Production	2012–2026
Fuel Type	Electricity
Seats	5
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive
Standard Powertrain	Dual electric motors
Plaid Powertrain	Three electric motors
Peak Power	670 hp / 1,020 hp
Transmission	Single-speed reduction gear
Final EPA Range	Up to 410 miles
Supercharging Maximum	250 kW
Length	Approximately 197.7 inches
Width Without Mirrors	Approximately 78.6 inches
Height	Approximately 56.3 inches
Wheelbase	Approximately 116.5 inches
Cargo Behind Rear Seats	Approximately 28.2 cu ft
Maximum Cargo	Approximately 64.6 cu ft
Main Rivals	Lucid Air, Porsche Taycan, Mercedes-Benz EQS, Audi e-tron GT, BMW i5

The Model S is longer and wider than a Tesla Model 3 and provides significantly more cargo flexibility than a conventional sedan because of its large rear hatch. Its dimensions place it closer to a full-size luxury car, although the sloping roof and low seating position give it a sportier profile.

Expert Tip

For most used buyers, a 2022-or-newer dual-motor Model S is the version to consider first. The refreshed interior, horizontal center display, improved cabin technology, stronger range, and updated powertrain make later cars more appealing than early examples. The dual-motor version is already extremely quick and typically offers more range than the Plaid.

About the Tesla Model S

The Tesla Model S was one of the first electric cars to prove that an EV could combine long range, strong performance, premium pricing, and practical everyday use.

Production began in 2012 at Tesla’s Fremont factory. Over its long production life, the Model S received repeated software, battery, motor, styling, interior, and charging updates rather than following the traditional complete-redesign cycle used by most manufacturers.

The most significant later update arrived for 2021. It introduced a redesigned interior, a horizontal center screen, a rear passenger display, updated powertrains, and the tri-motor Model S Plaid.

Used Prices & Final Versions

The Model S was sold in many configurations throughout its production life. Names such as 60, 70, 75, 85, 90, 100D, P100D, Long Range, Performance, and Plaid were used at different points.

The final lineup was much simpler.

Final Version	Final Listed Price Position	Powertrain	Key Strength
Model S AWD	About $84,990 when new	Dual-motor AWD	Longest range and best everyday balance
Model S Plaid	About $99,990 when new	Tri-motor AWD	Maximum acceleration and 1,020 hp

Tesla raised U.S. Model S pricing by $5,000 in June 2025, bringing the dual-motor version to $84,990 and the Plaid to $99,990 at that time. Final transaction pricing could differ because Tesla regularly adjusted prices and included or removed equipment during the model’s production run.

Current used prices vary significantly based on:

Model year
Battery and motor configuration
Mileage
Accident history
Remaining warranty
Full Self-Driving software status
Wheel size
Interior configuration
Supercharging eligibility on older cars
Suspension and battery condition

Older Model S Versions

Earlier vehicles can appear attractively priced, but they require more careful inspection. Older examples may have slower infotainment hardware, lower charging speeds, reduced battery capacity, outdated driver-assistance equipment, older door-handle designs, and more age-related suspension or electronic wear.

Free unlimited Supercharging may remain attached to some older vehicles, but transfer rules vary. Buyers should confirm eligibility directly through the Tesla account associated with the exact vehicle rather than relying on a seller’s claim.

Refreshed 2021–2026 Model S

The later refreshed cars are more desirable for most buyers because they provide:

Newer interior design
Horizontal center touchscreen
Rear passenger display
Updated steering-wheel design
Improved thermal management
Faster and more consistent performance
Newer infotainment hardware
Dual-motor or tri-motor AWD
Stronger charging and road-trip capability

Used pricing changes quickly, so buyers should compare Tesla’s own used inventory with franchised dealers, independent EV specialists, and private sellers before making a decision.

Battery, Motors, Performance & Range

The final Model S was sold with two major electric powertrain layouts.

Model S Dual-Motor AWD

Item	Model S AWD
Motors	Dual motor
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive
Peak Power	670 hp
EPA-Estimated Range	410 miles
0–60 MPH	3.1 seconds
Best Use	Long-distance driving, fast daily use, maximum practical range

The standard Model S is the better choice for most buyers. With 670 hp and a claimed 3.1-second 0–60 mph time, it is already quicker than most performance sedans.

Its greater advantage is range. Tesla listed it at up to 410 miles, making it one of the longest-range EVs available during its final production period.

Tesla Model S Plaid

Item	Model S Plaid
Motors	Tri motor
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive with torque vectoring
Peak Power	1,020 hp
EPA-Estimated Range	368 miles
0–60 MPH	1.99 seconds under Tesla’s stated conditions
Maximum Claimed Speed	Up to 200 mph with required hardware
Best Use	Maximum acceleration and high-performance driving

The Plaid is the headline version. Its three-motor system produces 1,020 hp and provides acceleration comparable with far more expensive exotic cars.

Tesla’s 1.99-second figure is measured with rollout subtracted and requires suitable conditions. Normal real-world launches may be slightly slower, but the car remains extraordinarily quick.

The Plaid sacrifices some range compared with the dual-motor Model S. It can also create higher ownership costs because its acceleration places greater demands on tires, brakes, wheels, and insurance.

Driving Experience

The Model S feels different from a conventional full-size luxury sedan.

Acceleration is immediate because electric motors deliver torque without waiting for an engine or transmission to build speed. Even the dual-motor version feels extremely fast in normal traffic, while the Plaid can produce acceleration that may be uncomfortable for unprepared passengers.

The battery pack sits low in the floor, helping the car feel stable through corners. The steering is quick, and the low center of gravity reduces the top-heavy sensation found in large electric SUVs.

However, the Model S is still a large and heavy car. Its width can be noticeable in tight parking spaces, older garages, and narrow streets.

Adaptive air suspension helps balance comfort and handling. It can adjust ride height, which is useful around steep driveways and rough entrances. Large wheels create a firmer ride and increase the risk of tire and wheel damage on broken roads.

The strongest driving qualities are:

Immediate acceleration
Confident highway passing
Stable high-speed road manners
Quiet low-speed operation
Strong regenerative braking
Comfortable long-distance cruising
Low center of gravity

The main compromises are:

Wide exterior dimensions
Heavy curb weight
Firm ride on larger wheels
Limited rear visibility through the sloping hatch
Touchscreen dependence for many functions
Expensive high-performance tires

Range, Charging & Efficiency

Tesla listed the final dual-motor Model S at 410 miles of EPA-estimated range and the Model S Plaid at 368 miles.

Version	EPA-Estimated Range	Supercharging Maximum
Model S AWD	410 miles	250 kW
Model S Plaid	368 miles	250 kW

The dual-motor version is the stronger road-trip choice because it combines the longest rated range with more performance than most drivers will ever need.

Supercharging

The Model S supports Tesla Supercharging at up to 250 kW under suitable conditions.

Actual charging speed depends on:

Battery temperature
Starting state of charge
Charger output
Battery age
Ambient temperature
Route preconditioning
Charging-station congestion
Whether the charging session begins with a low battery percentage

Charging is usually fastest at a low state of charge and slows as the battery approaches full capacity.

Home Charging

Home charging is the easiest way to own a Model S. A properly installed Level 2 charger can replenish the battery overnight for most daily driving patterns.

Buyers should consider:

Electrical-panel capacity
Available charging amperage
Parking location
Cable length
Local installation costs
Utility time-of-use rates
Whether the vehicle includes the correct adapter

Tesla’s Wall Connector warranty generally covers four years for normal residential use.

Real-World Range

Actual range can be lower than the EPA estimate. Factors that reduce range include:

High highway speeds
Cold weather
Cabin heating
Strong headwinds
Large wheels
Low tire pressure
Aggressive acceleration
Heavy passenger or cargo loads
Battery degradation
Elevation changes
Roof-mounted accessories

For long trips, buyers should plan charging stops around realistic highway consumption rather than assuming the full EPA figure will always be available.

0–60 MPH Acceleration

Version	Official 0–60 MPH	Notes
Model S AWD	3.1 seconds	Extremely quick for a full-size luxury car
Model S Plaid	1.99 seconds	Tesla figure with rollout subtracted and specified conditions

Tesla also listed the Model S Plaid with a 9.23-second quarter-mile time at 155 mph.

The dual-motor version already provides more acceleration than most drivers need. It is fast enough for immediate highway merging and effortless passing.

The Plaid exists for buyers who specifically want one of the quickest production cars made. Its performance is impressive, but it is difficult to use fully on public roads.

Interior, Comfort & Technology

The refreshed Model S interior is built around a minimalist dashboard and a large horizontal center touchscreen.

The cabin has fewer conventional switches than most luxury sedans. Climate settings, media, navigation, vehicle controls, charging information, drive settings, and many secondary functions are managed through the screen.

Common features on later examples include:

Large horizontal center touchscreen
Digital driver display
Rear passenger touchscreen
Wireless phone charging
Bluetooth connectivity
Navigation with charging-stop planning
Heated front and rear seats
Ventilated front seats on later configurations
Heated steering control
Multi-zone climate control
Premium audio system
Glass roof
Over-the-air software updates
Phone-based key access
Built-in entertainment applications

The display system is responsive and visually clean, but touchscreen dependence will not suit everyone. Drivers who prefer physical climate, audio, and vehicle controls may find the interface distracting.

Seating Comfort

The Model S seats five people.

Front-seat comfort is strong for long journeys, and the flat floor helps create a more open cabin. Rear legroom is useful, but the low seating position and sloping roof can make the rear compartment feel less spacious than the car’s exterior size suggests.

The liftback opening is one of the Model S’s best practical features. It provides easier access to the cargo area than a conventional sedan trunk.

Dimensions & Practicality

Dimension	Measurement
Length	197.7 inches
Width Without Mirrors	78.6 inches
Width With Mirrors	86.2 inches
Height	56.3 inches
Wheelbase	116.5 inches
Ground Clearance	Approximately 4.6 inches at normal setting
Seating Capacity	5
Cargo With Seats Up	Approximately 28.2 cu ft
Maximum Cargo	Approximately 64.6 cu ft
Turning Circle	Approximately 40.3 feet

These published dimensions show why the Model S works well as a long-distance family EV but can feel large in cities.

The rear hatch makes the cargo space more useful than the trunk of many traditional luxury sedans. Folding the rear seats allows the car to carry larger boxes, luggage, sports equipment, or other long items.

The front trunk adds another storage area for charging cables, smaller bags, or items buyers may prefer to keep separate from the main cargo compartment.

The Model S remains less practical than a Model X or large SUV for tall cargo, third-row seating, or difficult entry. Its low seating position may also be less convenient for buyers with limited mobility.

Safety Features & Ratings

The Model S includes a camera-based driver-assistance and safety system. Equipment and software capability vary by model year, hardware generation, purchased software package, and region.

Common safety and driver-assistance functions may include:

Automatic emergency braking
Forward collision warning
Blind-spot monitoring
Lane-departure avoidance
Lane-centering assistance
Adaptive cruise control
Automatic high beams
Surround-view camera display
Parking assistance
Speed-limit display
Driver monitoring
Autopilot
Optional or purchased Full Self-Driving capability

Despite its name, Full Self-Driving requires active driver supervision and does not make the Model S an autonomous vehicle. Drivers remain responsible for monitoring the road and controlling the vehicle.

The current IIHS award lists do not show the discontinued Model S among Tesla’s latest 2025 award recipients. Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y appear in those lists, but buyers should not transfer those ratings to the Model S.

Safety disclaimer: For official crash-test ratings and safety evaluations, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites.

Buyers should check the exact model year and vehicle identification number because structural design, airbags, restraint systems, cameras, sensors, driver-assistance hardware, and software changed during the Model S’s long production period.

Reliability & Ownership

The Model S has fewer conventional engine-related maintenance items than a gasoline luxury sedan, but it is not necessarily inexpensive to own.

There are no engine-oil changes, spark plugs, exhaust components, or conventional multispeed transmission services. However, repair costs can still be high because of the vehicle’s air suspension, aluminum body construction, electronics, large wheels, battery system, cameras, displays, and specialized parts.

Warranty

Tesla’s basic new-vehicle warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles.

For the Model S, the battery and drive-unit warranty covers eight years or 150,000 miles, with a minimum 70% battery-capacity retention during the warranty period.

Warranty	Coverage
Basic Vehicle	4 years / 50,000 miles
Supplemental Restraint System	5 years / 60,000 miles
Battery and Drive Unit	8 years / 150,000 miles
Battery Capacity Guarantee	Minimum 70% retention during warranty
Body Rust Perforation	12 years / unlimited miles

Tesla says eligible pre-owned vehicles purchased directly from Tesla receive the remainder of the original basic warranty, followed by an additional one year or 10,000 miles under the Pre-Owned Vehicle Limited Warranty. Exact terms depend on the vehicle and purchase date.

Common Used-Buyer Checks

A pre-purchase inspection should include:

Battery health and charging behavior
High-voltage warning messages
Air-suspension leaks or compressor noise
Uneven tire wear
Control-arm and suspension noise
Wheel damage
Door-handle operation
Powered trunk operation
Touchscreen discoloration, failure, or lag
Instrument-cluster condition
HVAC output
Heat-pump or climate-system performance where fitted
Charge-port operation
Water leaks
Glass-roof condition
Camera clarity
Autopilot and software hardware version
Previous collision repair
Underbody and battery-pack damage

Tires and Wheels

Tires are a significant ownership expense. The Model S is heavy and powerful, and aggressive acceleration can shorten tire life.

Large-diameter wheels may improve appearance and steering response, but they can:

Reduce range
Increase tire cost
Make the ride firmer
Increase road noise
Raise the risk of pothole damage

For daily use, smaller factory wheel options are generally the more practical choice.

Insurance

Insurance can be expensive, particularly for Plaid models. High power, aluminum body repairs, costly lighting and glass components, cameras, sensors, and specialized labor can increase claim costs.

Buyers should obtain insurance quotes before purchasing rather than assuming running costs will be low simply because the car does not use gasoline.

Pros and Cons

What We Like

Long EPA-estimated range in the dual-motor version
Extremely strong acceleration
Plaid delivers supercar-level straight-line performance
Large and useful liftback cargo area
Spacious front cabin
Access to Tesla’s charging ecosystem
Frequent over-the-air software updates
Strong highway and road-trip ability
No gasoline or routine engine-oil changes
Later models have modern screens and improved cabin technology

What We Don’t Like

Production ended in 2026
Used examples vary widely by year and hardware
Interior quality does not always match traditional luxury rivals
Many controls rely on the touchscreen
Repairs, tires, insurance, and suspension work can be expensive
Plaid performance is difficult to use legally on public roads
Large dimensions make city parking harder
Larger wheels reduce comfort and range
No current new-car factory ordering
Older examples may require costly electronic, battery, suspension, or charging repairs

Should You Buy the Tesla Model S?

You should buy a Tesla Model S if you want a fast, long-range electric car with a large cargo area, strong charging access, and more passenger space than a smaller EV sedan.

The dual-motor Model S is the best choice for most buyers. It offers the longest range, outstanding acceleration, AWD, and lower ownership risk than the Plaid.

The Plaid makes sense when extreme performance is the main reason for buying the car. It is significantly quicker, but the performance advantage does not make it more practical for commuting or long trips.

You should skip the Model S if you want:

A conventional luxury interior with extensive physical controls
The lowest possible EV purchase price
SUV-like entry and cargo height
A factory-new vehicle still in active production
Broad independent repair support
Predictable low-cost maintenance
The most current crash-test results

Consider the BMW i5 if you want a more traditional luxury-sedan experience.

Consider the Tesla Model 3 if you want lower purchase and running costs with access to the same broader software and charging ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tesla Model S still being produced?

No. Tesla’s official Model S page states that the vehicle is no longer in production. Pre-owned and remaining inventory vehicles may still be available.

When was the Tesla Model S discontinued?

Tesla ended Model S production in 2026 after producing the car at its Fremont facility from 2012. Tesla later redirected the production space toward its Optimus robotics program.

What is the Tesla Model S range?

Tesla listed the final dual-motor Model S at up to 410 miles of EPA-estimated range. The Model S Plaid was listed at 368 miles.

How fast is the Tesla Model S?

The final dual-motor Model S had a claimed 0–60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. Tesla claimed 1.99 seconds for the Plaid under specified conditions with rollout subtracted.

How much horsepower does the Tesla Model S have?

The final dual-motor Model S produced a listed 670 hp. The tri-motor Plaid produced 1,020 hp.

Is the Tesla Model S Plaid worth buying?

The Plaid is worth considering for buyers who specifically want maximum acceleration. The dual-motor Model S is the better purchase for most people because it offers more range, lower pricing, and more performance than everyday driving requires.

How long does it take to charge a Tesla Model S?

Charging time depends on battery percentage, battery temperature, charger output, and conditions. The final Model S supports Supercharging at up to 250 kW, but charging speed slows as the battery fills.

Can the Tesla Model S use a Tesla Supercharger?

Yes. The Model S was designed to use Tesla’s Supercharger network. Charging speed and connector compatibility can vary by model year and region.

How many people can the Tesla Model S seat?

Current and later Model S versions seat five people. Some much older vehicles were available with small rear-facing child seats, but that option was discontinued.

How much cargo space does the Tesla Model S have?

Published specifications list approximately 28.2 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and up to 64.6 cubic feet with them folded.

Is the Tesla Model S reliable?

Reliability depends heavily on model year, mileage, battery condition, suspension condition, and previous repairs. The electric powertrain has fewer routine service items than a gasoline engine, but air suspension, electronics, displays, door handles, wheels, and body repairs can be expensive.

What is the Tesla Model S battery warranty?

Tesla covers the Model S battery and drive unit for eight years or 150,000 miles, with at least 70% battery-capacity retention during the warranty period.

Does the Tesla Model S have all-wheel drive?

Later Model S versions use all-wheel drive. The standard version has two motors, while the Plaid has three.

Is a used Tesla Model S a good buy?

A used Model S can be a good buy when it has a clean history, healthy battery, remaining warranty, properly working suspension, and no significant charging or electronic problems. An inspection by a Tesla-experienced technician is strongly recommended.

What replaced the Tesla Model S?

Tesla had not introduced a direct successor when Model S production ended. The Model 3 remains Tesla’s sedan, while the Model Y covers the higher-volume crossover market.

Summary

The dual-motor version is the strongest choice for most buyers. It offers up to 410 miles of rated range, AWD, and performance that is already far beyond normal daily requirements.

A well-maintained later Model S can still be an excellent long-distance EV. Buyers should prioritize battery condition, warranty coverage, suspension health, tire condition, charging performance, and repair history over color, wheel size, or software claims.