2016 Tesla Model S review
Tesla Model S highlights
Customer rating
(not yet rated)
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Pros
- Impressive range
- Strong performance
- Advanced technology
- Wide-ranging Supercharger recharging network
Cons
- Unproven reliability
- Lacks the luxury polish of similarly priced sedans
- Small dealer network
Battery range (EPA estimate)
210 miles
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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The 2016 Tesla Model S is an advanced electric luxury sedan with impressive performance
Electric cars continue to grow in popularity, but the 2016 Tesla Model S was in a class of its own. The stylish Model S sedan—sold alongside the Model X, the brand’s first SUV—boasts outstanding performance and a longer driving range than any of its competitors. Tesla doesn’t adhere to model years like most other car companies; instead, changes are rolled out in phases. That said, the 2016 Model S features revised front-end styling, adaptive headlights, an enhanced cabin air filtration system, and Autopilot semi-autonomous driving technology.
The 2016 Tesla Model S is offered with single- and dual-motor powertrains, all powered by a lithium-ion battery pack. Even the base-level versions deliver impressive power and acceleration, and the top-level P90D can sprint to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds with the optional Ludicrous mode. That is serious acceleration for a sports car, and this is a big four-door sedan. The 2016 Model S doesn’t have any electric-powered peers, but models like the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Porsche Panamera deliver similar levels of performance and luxury.
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What is new for the 2016 Tesla Model S?
- The Model S is available in a variety of new trims, including the 60D, 75, 75D, and P100D.
- Model S trims have been upgraded with Automated Parking, Leather Seats, Adjustable Suspension, and Leatherette & Cloth as standard equipment this year.
- A/C Seat(s), Leatherette Seats, and Skylight(s) features are now available as options on select trims.
- The P85D trim now comes with Leather & Suede Seats as standard equipment.
- The 60 trim now comes with Blind Spot Monitor, Smart Key, and Navigation System as standard equipment.
- The 90D trim now comes with Leather & Suede Seats as standard equipment.
What We Like
Performance: Taking full advantage of the high torque inherent in electric powertrains, the Tesla Model S delivers outstanding acceleration, even in its most basic configurations. Not only is the Model S extremely quick off the line, but it also delivers excellent handling thanks to its low center of gravity as well as its well-tuned steering and suspension. Range performance is also impressive: According to the EPA, the Model S can travel up to 300 miles between charges.
Driver aids and crash test scores: The 2016 Tesla Model S earned top Good scores in all crashworthiness tests (except for the Average score in the small overlap front test) by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a five-star overall rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Model S also comes well equipped with advanced driver-assist features that include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot warning. Limited hands-free driving is available on models equipped with Tesla’s Autopilot system.
Interior: The cabin of the Model S feels futuristic, with almost all controls accessed via the large center touchscreen display. The system is very customizable and can be configured for better access to commonly used features. There’s good headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, and an optional rear-facing jump seat adds space for two small children.
What Needs Improvement
Fit and finish: With its price and performance, the Tesla Model S is considered a luxury sedan, but some materials, as well as the fit and finish, don’t live up to the luxury moniker. Cabin materials don’t match the higher level of Tesla’s luxury competitors in the same price range, but they are nice-looking and of decent quality.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
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Tesla Model S features and specs
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60 2WD 4D Sedan
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automated Parking
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cloth Seats
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Spoiler
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- A/C Seat(s)
- Adjustable Suspension
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automated Parking
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Lane Departure Warning
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Spoiler
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Skylight(s)
- Third Row Seat
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
0.0L
Engine type
Electric
Wheelbase
116.5"
Overall length
196"
Width
77.3"
Height
56.5"
Leg room
F 42.7"/R 35.4"
Head room
F 38.8"/R 35.3"
Front tires
P245/45WR19
Rear tires
P245/45WR19
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
2016 Tesla Model S FAQ
The 2016 Tesla Model S is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- 60: Battery range of 210 miles.
- P100D: Battery range of 315 miles.
- 60D: Battery range of 218 miles.
- 70: Battery range of 234 miles.
- 75: Battery range of 249 miles.
- 70D: Battery range of 240 miles.
- 75D: Battery range of 259 miles.
- 90D: Battery range of 294 miles.
- P90D: Battery range of 250 miles.
- 85: Battery range of 265 miles.
- P85D: Battery range of 253 miles.
- 85D: Battery range of 270 miles.
Here is what's new for the 2016 Tesla Model S:
- 60D
- 75
- 75D
- P100D
- Automated Parking
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