Tesla model S costs, pros, cons and common fixes

Country of Manufacture
The Tesla Model S is assembled in Fremont, California (USA), at the Tesla Factory, featuring an aluminum chassis and lightweight alloy body.
Quick Overview
The Model S is a luxury five-door electric sedan with a low-slung, aerodynamic profile, retractable door handles, and a panoramic glass roof. Its minimalist cabin centers around a horizontal 17″ touchscreen, a digital instrument panel, and vegan leather seats with heating and ventilation for a refined, tech-driven experience.
Powertrain & Performance
Configuration | Power & Torque | 0–100 km/h | Top Speed | WLTP Range |
---|
Long Range Dual Motor AWD | ≈ 450 kW (612 hp) / 960 Nm | 2.6 s | 250 km/h | 640 km |
Plaid Tri Motor AWD | ≈ 750 kW (1 019 hp) / 1 020 Nm | 2.1 s | 322 km/h | 600 km |
Efficiency & Charging
Characteristic | Value |
---|
Average WLTP Consumption | 18.5 kWh/100 km |
AC Charging | 11 kW (Wall Connector) |
DC Charging | Up to 250 kW (Supercharger V3) |
Dimensions & Capacity
Specification | Measurement |
---|
Length | 4,970 mm |
Width | 1,964 mm (excl. mirrors) |
Height | 1,445 mm |
Wheelbase | 2,960 mm |
Curb Weight | 2,200–2,300 kg |
Cargo Volume | 804 L / 2,052 L |
Ground Clearance | 140 mm |
Turning Circle | 11.5 m |
Trim Levels & Pricing
Version | Price (€) |
---|
Long Range AWD | 99,990 |
Plaid AWD | 129,990 |
(Manufacturer’s list price; VAT included, incentives and fees excluded.)
Maintenance & First Services (Indicative Costs)
Service | Average Cost (€) |
---|
Annual Inspection | 200–300 |
Front Brake Pads Replacement | 250–350 |
Front Discs + Pads Replacement | 600–800 |
Cabin Filter Replacement | 100–150 |
12 V Battery Replacement | 150–200 |
Tire Replacement (each) | 200–250 |
Pros
Extreme Performance: 0–100 km/h in 2.1 s (Plaid)
Class-Leading Range: up to 640 km WLTP
Ultra-Fast Charging: Supercharger V3 up to 250 kW
Advanced Technology: Autopilot, OTA updates, expansive 17″ touchscreen
Ample Storage: front and rear trunks for a total of over 2,800 L
Cons
High Price Tag relative to other electric sedans
Build Quality Variability: occasional fit-and-finish issues below luxury expectations
Service Network: limited in some regions
Firm Ride: performance mode can feel stiff on uneven roads
In Summary
The Tesla Model S remains the benchmark for high-performance, long-range electric sedans. It combines cutting-edge technology and an expansive charging network with blistering acceleration—while commanding a premium price and trading off some traditional luxury-car refinement.
Verdict — Tesla Model S (Model Year 2025)
Premium Electric Sedan · 100 kWh Battery · Dual Motors 360 kW (490 hp), 960 Nm · AWD · 0–100 km/h in 3.2 s · WLTP Range ≈ 670 km · DC Charging up to 250 kW
The Tesla Model S remains the benchmark for luxury electric sedans, boasting sleek, gran-touring proportions and an industry-leading drag coefficient (Cd 0.208). Its minimalist front fascia and sharp full-LED headlights blend seamlessly with sculpted bodylines and retractable door handles, while its fastback roof enhances aerodynamic efficiency.
Inside, the “Tech-Forward” cabin centers on a 17″ touchscreen angled toward the driver, a 12.3″ digital instrument cluster, and a rear-seat entertainment display. Heated and ventilated vegan-leather seats, matte mosaic trim, and a central console with wireless charging create a modern, luxurious environment. Storage includes a 150 L front trunk and a 793 L rear boot with a dual-level floor. Over-the-air updates, integrated Supercharger navigation, and native streaming apps set the infotainment apart.
Key Technical Highlights:
Powertrain: Two permanent-magnet synchronous motors delivering 360 kW (490 hp) and 960 Nm; AWD with dynamic torque vectoring; 0–100 km/h in 3.2 s.
Battery & Range: 100 kWh pack; WLTP up to 670 km; active thermal management.
Charging: DC up to 250 kW (10–80 % in ~25 min); AC up to 11 kW.
Chassis & Ride: Aluminum monocoque; adaptive air suspension with auto-lowering on highway and raised ride height for light off-road; steer-by-wire front axle.
ADAS & Autonomy: Standard Autopilot with adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, Navigate on Autopilot; optional Full Self-Driving suite for advanced parking and hands-free highway driving.
Category | Strengths | Performs Well | Limitations |
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Design & Image | Elegant GT silhouette; record-low drag | Clean, minimalist styling | Conservative compared to sport coupes |
Comfort & Space | Heated/ventilated seats; spacious for five; ultra-quiet cabin | Generous rear legroom | Slightly intrusive center tunnel |
Efficiency & Range | Up to 670 km WLTP; minimal energy use at steady speeds | Adjustable regen and thermal preconditioning | Range dips in cold weather and mountainous terrain |
Driving Dynamics | Supercar-like acceleration; precise handling via adaptive air springs | Stable high-speed cruising | Noticeable body roll with sport-oriented settings |
Practicality | 150 L frunk + 793 L rear boot; “Camp Mode” for overnight stay | Extensive Supercharger network and battery pre-heat | Frunk opening less practical for large items |
Infotainment & Connectivity | 17″ touch interface; integrated streaming and navigation | Continuous OTA enhancements; built-in Supercharger routing | UI too minimal for those preferring physical controls |
Safety & ADAS | Advanced Autopilot standard; 5-star safety ratings | Effective pedestrian/cyclist detection | Full Self-Driving requires subscription and is still maturing |
Running Costs | Near-zero “fuel” costs; EV incentives | Lower service needs due to fewer moving parts | Tesla-dedicated service centers still limited in some areas |
Depreciation | Strong residuals driven by high demand | Robust used-market activity | Premium list price compared to other luxury EV sedans |
Who It’s For
Drivers seeking an all-electric flagship sedan with blistering performance, cutting-edge technology, and range to tackle long journeys in supreme comfort.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you prefer traditional luxury finishes or a lower entry price, consider the Mercedes-Benz EQE, Porsche Taycan, or Audi e-tron GT.
Recommended Configuration
Plaid Performance trim with tri-motor setup (1,020 hp), 0–100 km/h in 2.1 s, 21″ Arachnid wheels, rear heated seats, Full Self-Driving package, and Performance suspension—for the ultimate in electric performance and luxury.