2015 Tesla Model S

Pros: Head-turning looks; surprisingly robust acceleration; low per-mile operating costs

Cons: Steep pricing; limited availability; unknown long-term reliability

CG Says: The 2015 Tesla Model S has a new high-performance P90D model. Tesla claims the all-wheel drive sedan is capable of accelerating 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds. Tesla introduces new models and improvements as they became available, rather than waiting for a model year introduction. Introduced midyear in 2014 was the P85D, which is almost as fast as the P90D and also has AWD. The Tesla Model S is an all-electric 4-door sedan with room for a total of 7 passengers (5 adults in the first two seating rows and two children in optional jump seats in the cargo area). The rear-drive Model S uses electric motors hooked to the rear wheels through a single-speed transmission. All-wheel drive versions add another electric motor to drive the front wheels. An electric car doesn’t suit everyone–especially when it starts at about $70,000–but the Model S is an impressive effort. It’s plenty roomy for four adults, the interior is well thought out, ride and handling are exceptional, and performance is terrific (especially in the top-line performance models). Furthermore, its “fuel” costs are far lower than in any comparable gas vehicle, and the EPA-estimated range is 208 to 265 miles–by far the longest of any electric car. However, use all that range and recharge times can get long unless you’re at one of Tesla’s Supercharger stations, which cuts the times considerably and is free to owners.

Links

2014 Tesla Model S Review

2016 Tesla Model S Review