Tesla Model S - Overview
The 2022 Tesla Model S is still one of the most attractive and desirable options in that expanding market category, even if we wouldn't have the expanding selection of electric vehicles we do now without it.
Depending on the model, the S's anticipated driving range can reach up to 412 miles, and its 1020 horsepower Plaid variant can provide supercar performance while accommodating four persons. With a sizable back baggage room and an additional front trunk for additional space, the Model S is extremely useful. The Porsche Taycan and the Audi e-Tron GT are two recent additions to the premium EV sedan segment that compete with the Model S in terms of comfort and performance. However, the Model S's greater range and available semi-autonomous driving technologies continue to drive customers to this Tesla.
What Has Changed For 2022?
Last year, the Edition S underwent an exterior and interior aesthetic update that added a distinctive yoke-style steering wheel and a powerful 1020-hp Plaid performance model. We don't anticipate many changes in 2022, although Tesla has already announced a significant price rise for the base trim.
Tesla Model S: EV Performance, Power, And Motor
No matter whatever version you choose, the Model S boasts full-time all-wheel drive thanks to dedicated electric motors for the front and rear axles. The different types of acceleration vary greatly, from fantastic to fierce. Our 2020 Model S test vehicle had a blistering 2.4-second zero to 60 mph pace and proved to be extremely entertaining due to its rapid power delivery, however, we haven't tested the Model S Long Range or Plaid yet.
The Plaid variant has a third electric motor, which increases combined output to 1020 horsepower and, in our tests, allows it to go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.1 seconds. The base Model S has established itself as a nimble sports sedan with precise driving and well-controlled body movements. Drivers can select between two settings that either require heavy or light steering effort, but neither one enables additional road feedback. It handles well, provides a comfortable ride, and is confident and almost peaceful on the highway.
Tesla Model S: Battery Life And Range
A battery pack hidden beneath the Tesla's floor gives the vehicle a low center of gravity and evenly distributed weight from front to back. The battery in the standard version can provide a range of up to 412 miles, while the Plaid model can provide a range of up to 390 miles, depending on the model. Newcomer Lucid Motors claims that the Air luxury vehicle has a range of up to 517 miles on a single charge.
Tesla Model S: Interior And Comfort
Given that the Model S starts at nearly $90,000, consumers might reasonably anticipate some level of luxury inside the vehicle. The interior is pleasant enough, but it doesn't compare to some of our favorite vehicles, like the Mercedes-Benz E-class and the Volvo S90, in terms of comfort.
The slanted roofline of the Model S deftly conceals a rear liftgate that opens to reveal a massive 26-cubic-foot trunk. Without folding the back seats, we were able to store eight of our carry-on-size cases. The interior's meager small-item cubby storage, particularly in the back seat, is made up for by a sizable underfloor bin in the rear cargo area.
Tesla Model S: Connectivity
The Model S's interior, which features a massive infotainment screen that comes standard and manages practically all of the vehicle's functions, will appeal to fans of contemporary minimalism. While technophiles will be in heaven, we're not entirely convinced.
Some drivers may have to slant forward in their seats to reach certain symbols due to the location of the screen on the dashboard, particularly those that are located near the top right of the display. In contrast to the less expensive Model 3, the Model S offers a small touchscreen in the back seat as well as a supplementary display for the instrument cluster.
Tesla Model S: Pricing
With a starting price of $94,990, the Tesla Model S is more expensive than practically any other luxury electric vehicle on the market. The cost for the Plaid trim is $129,990. Few competitors in the same price range as the Model S Plaid provide anything.
Which One To Purchase?
We'd stick with the base model, which carries an estimated range of 412 miles per charge. The 1020-hp Plaid model sounds compelling, but its six-figure asking price represents diminishing value—unless you must have a car with the performance of a Top Fuel dragster.