Overview
The Tesla Model S is where it all started — Tesla's first mass-produced vehicle (2012). The current generation (2021+) features a redesigned interior with the controversial yoke steering option, massive 17" horizontal touchscreen, and the Plaid tri-motor powertrain producing 1,020 hp. The Long Range variant holds the record at 405 miles EPA — the most of any Tesla. Built exclusively at Gigafactory Fremont, California.
The Model S (from $74,990) exceeds the $55,000 MSRP cap for sedans under the IRA EV tax credit. Neither the Long Range nor Plaid qualifies for the $7,500 credit. No exceptions.
2026 Trims & Pricing
Two Model S trims for 2026. Both include 17" horizontal touchscreen, HEPA filtration, air suspension, autopilot, and optional yoke or steering wheel.
Full Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Full-Size Luxury Sedan |
| Current Gen | 2021–present |
| Drive | Dual AWD (LR) / Tri-Motor AWD (Plaid) |
| Seating | 5 |
| Frunk Cargo | 4.1 cu ft |
| Trunk Cargo | 25.1 cu ft |
| Length | 196.0 in |
| Width | 77.3 in |
| Height | 56.9 in |
| Curb Weight | 4,561–4,766 lbs |
| Screen | 17" horizontal touchscreen |
| Steering | Yoke or steering wheel |
| Air Suspension | Standard |
| HEPA Filtration | Standard |
| Charging | NACS / 250 kW |
| Warranty (vehicle) | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
| Warranty (battery) | 8 yr / 150,000 mi |
Range & Efficiency
The Model S Long Range holds the EPA record among Tesla vehicles at 405 miles. Highway range at 70 mph is typically 320–340 miles.
| Condition / Trim | Figure |
|---|---|
| Long Range — EPA | 405 mi |
| Plaid — EPA | 396 mi |
| Long Range — Hwy 70 mph (est.) | ~330–340 mi |
| Long Range — Cold (20°F) | ~300–325 mi |
| Energy (Long Range) | ~28 kWh/100 mi |
Performance
The Model S Plaid's 1.99s 0–60 makes it the fastest production sedan ever tested. The Long Range is no slouch at 3.1s.
| Specification | Figure |
|---|---|
| 0–60 (Long Range) | 3.1s |
| 0–60 (Plaid) | 1.99s |
| Quarter Mile (Plaid) | 9.23s @ 152 mph |
| Top Speed (LR) | 155 mph |
| Top Speed (Plaid w/ Track Pkg) | 200 mph* |
| Suspension | Air (adjustable height) |
| Brakes (Plaid) | Carbon ceramic available |
Charging
Both Model S variants charge at up to 250 kW at V3 Superchargers.
| Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Connector | NACS (SAE J3400) |
| Max DC Fast | 250 kW |
| V3 Supercharger 10–80% | ~20 min |
| Level 2 Home | ~11.5 kW |
| Full Charge Level 2 | ~8–10 hrs |
Both Model S trims charge at 250 kW maximum at compatible V3 Superchargers. The large battery means more absolute miles added per minute of charging vs. smaller vehicles.
Reliability
Model S reliability is mixed — the powertrain is generally strong but the complexity of the large screen, air suspension, and electronics creates more potential failure points. The 2021+ redesign improved upon some issues from the previous generation.
| Area | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | td-good | Motor and battery longevity well-documented |
| Air Suspension | td-warn | Documented air strut failures on older builds — improved 2023+ |
| Electronics / Screen | td-warn | Complex system; some display and touch screen issues |
| CR Reliability | td-warn | Below average for luxury segment per Consumer Reports |
| Service Access | td-warn | Fewer service centers vs. BMW/Mercedes — plan ahead |
Consult Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and NHTSA for your specific model year.
Recalls
Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls using your 17-digit VIN.
Recent Updates
Pros & Cons
Plaid performance — 1.99s 0–60 is the fastest production sedan ever tested, full stop
Premium interior (2021+) — 17" screen, massaging seats, HEPA air filtration
Air suspension — Adjustable ride height and quality; excellent highway ride
NACS charging — 250kW charging speed on both trims
Yoke steering controversy — Many owners prefer the steering wheel option — confirm before ordering
Service access — Fewer service centers than German luxury rivals in many regions
Price premium — $74,990 base — BMW i7 and Mercedes EQS compete here
Older platform — Current gen 2021 — refresh may be forthcoming
FAQ
Accessories & Upgrades
Popular upgrades and accessories for the Tesla Model S. Amazon affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
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- Tesla Model S pricing — tesla.com (March 2026)
- EPA range — fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA recalls — nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Motor Trend Model S Plaid review
AmericanCarBrands.com is independent editorial — not affiliated with Tesla. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. Pricing and specs as of March 2026 — verify at manufacturer website.