Positive Review
Driving the Tesla: Model S can only be described as a massive leap forward into the distant future! Not only can this car out-perform just about EVERYTHING on the road (in real world driving), it does it with amazing style, comfort, and handling! I own the P85 Performance version (85 kWh battery) and if you offered me a 2013 Porsche 911GT for it, I would quickly turn you down. Because the Model S Peformance is such a far superior car in all levels of eveything, it even makes the most sought-after vehicels on the road feel obsolete by comparison. The torque of the Model S is so instant, it's already gone by the time the Porsche has sent the fuel to the pistons, cranked the rods, found the gear, and spooled up the turbos. Everyone I have given a ride to in my Model S says exactly the same thing... "It's a roller-coaster on wheels!!!" Because it is insanely fast, smooth, and completely silent. Best of all, it cost pennies to drive, has more room than most SUV-crossover's. Never mind technology that even makes Bentley and Roles-Royce appear like ox-carts from the 1800's. I have already driven 270 miles on a single charge, and charging it at home is a breeze! It's not a wonder why the critics at Motor Trend gave it the most prestigious 'Car of the Year' award for 2013 (and the accolades just keep on coming). Tesla has single-handedly brought back the prestige American once had in the automotive industry.
Critical Review
When I bought my new Tesla Model S in May 2016 and for months before I was proud to be part of “accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy.” I talked it up with my friends and family and even with strangers I met at Starbucks. I got 2 of my kids to pre-order the Model 3. Then I ran over a truck tire tread on the freeway, causing $6k of damage to the bumper and undercarriage. Since then, the car has been at a Tesla-authorized Repair Shop in Roseville, CA. It has been there for 6 weeks now awaiting repair parts, with no ETA for those parts. In fact, the Repair Shop tells me that they have 3 other Teslas in their shop in similar condition awaiting parts for as much as 3 months. After 4 weeks, I contacted Tesla using the form on their web site. No response. At all. If “the world's transition....” involves no repair parts, I want no part of it, and neither should you. If “the world's transition....” includes the inability to forecast a delivery date for repair parts, I am ashamed to be a part of it. If “the world's transition....” entails a complete lack of interest in post-sales customer service, I am afraid of it. What would you do if your car was unavailable for 6 weeks with no forecast for when it would be available again? Would you feel like you were accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy?
Showing 8 of 153 reviews.
Acceleration, technology, practically, comfort, range, value, Tesla ecosystem
Brakes, non-adjustable camber, cabin could be quieter
Tesla Model S Plaid: A Powerhouse with Room for Perfection Owning the Tesla Model S Plaid has been nothing short of exhilarating. It’s an engineering marvel that truly lives up to its reputation as one of the fastest production cars in the world. Every time I get behind the wheel, I’m reminded of why I consider it an amazing vehicle. The sheer performance is jaw-dropping. With its tri-motor setup, the instant torque and mind-bending acceleration create a driving experience that feels like something out of a sci-fi movie. The Plaid doesn’t just move it launches. Beyond its raw power, the interior is a masterclass in minimalist luxury. The yoke steering (while controversial to some) adds a futuristic touch, and the expansive display integrates seamlessly into the driving experience. The spacious cabin and adjustable air suspension, makes every drive comfortable and engaging. The hatchback trunk provides an incredible amount of space and practicality. However, no car is perfect. While the Plaid’s acceleration is on another level, the braking system leaves a bit to be desired, especially given the speed this car can achieve. The optional track pack brakes that are available after purchase, should be standard. Enhanced brake performance would provide that extra layer of confidence during aggressive driving or in emergency stops. For a car that excels in nearly every category, it’s an area where Tesla needs improvement in the next refresh. In the end, the Model S Plaid was a game-changer. A car that helped shape the EV industry. An EV that blends blistering speed with minimalist luxury and cutting-edge technology. It’s a car that constantly impresses, yet leaves just enough room for future enhancements to make it truly flawless. In the winter time, expect the full power not to be available due to traction and lower battery temperature. Expect the 21 inch OEM Pilot Sport 4S tires to wear quickly on the inside edge due to negative camber that can't be adjusted (Tesla please add adjustable control arms to the next refresh). Expect issues with Tesla service if aftermarket parts are installed. Expect the Tesla ownership experience to be much more thrilling than any other car that you've owned due to the incredible ecosystem of continuous software updates, full-self driving, an active ownership community, and a multitude of aftermarket parts. Can't afford a new one, buy a used one in the 40k's now.
The process to communicate with the seller while keeping your information private was straight forward and helps to avoid future issues. I scheduled the test drive and got the address for the meet up location. Very smooth process, the car was as advertised. I did a seperate CarFax check and got the same information listed for it.
Extreemly Fast and comfortable, latest self driving feature is amazing. I purchased the new Plaid Model in 2021 and will never go back to a gas only vehicle. I would not recomend any car you cant charge at a Tesla Supercharger either. The others arent reliable, easy to use or fast enough in charging times. Only issue is inside rear tires wear down to the belts very quickly. Even with 90% highway miles I only got about 7,500 miles on the rears, vs. 12,000 on the fronts. In past performance vehicles, like BMW M5, it was always the front outside edges that wore out first, so it was easy to monitor for safety. Not so on the Model S. Rear tires can look great on outside edges and be down to the bare cords on the inside edges. If you can live with a gently used model, you can steel one for less than half the price of new and have the fastest safest car on the road with room for 4-5 adults plus fold down rear seats for larger packages.
Power when you need it, comfort, handling, economy, almost no maintenance, no tailpipe emissions.
You're giving $ to Elon Musk
I bought a new Tesla Model S Long Range in February of 2022, and haven't been as excited about owning and driving a car since I got my first one when I was 18. I drive conservatively because I don't want to contribute to the madness on our highways, but it's is a rocket ship when you need it to be in short bursts, and makes freeway merge anxiety a thing of the past. It tracks beautifully on the highway and the silence inside the cabin is incomparable, until you crank up the magnificent sound system. Its low center of gravity makes the Model S amazingly agile for a car of its size, and it's just an overall joy to drive. The yoke is great, and more comfortable than a wheel for long trips. Those who worry about spinning it in turns are way off base, because you can make a 90-degree turn with a 90-degree turn of the yoke, and never take your hand off of it. It's quite easy in tight places like parking lots. Even though in practice you should stay between 30 and 85% of battery capacity (and not assume, of course, that you would drive to the extent of the full 400-mile range), the range is more than sufficient for for traveling, as I want to rest every three to four hours anyway. By the time you grab something to eat, the car is charged (at a supercharger). I don't track it closely, but I get the equivalent of at least 80 mpg, and, of course, have no tailpipe emissions. The only people who run down EVs are afraid of change, or have a vested interest in ICE sales, manufacture or fueling infrastructure. The only thing I don't like about my car is its association with Elon Musk. He was merely quirky, and hadn't revealed his nature back when I bought it.
Long range EV battery, stylish, luxe
I love my Tesla S 100. I have had no issues with it and it runs like a dream. It is sporty and luxurious.
Good condition. All electric. No problems
Not aware of cons
The car is white in great condition ; new tires; no scratches except 1 nick on back trunk hood -from garage door
Have had a 2023 model for over a month. Leased it as an upgrade to my then 5 year old model 3. Test drove the competition, BMX i5-MX60, Lucid, BMW i4 and Audi e-tron. In the end decided on the Tesla due to range, charging network for longer trips and superb driving dynamics. i4 too small and cramped, i5 and Lucid too big and floaty, Audi e-tron lacking in range and dynamics. Tesla fit and finish is great, new cream interior beautiful and hatchback practicality fabulous. At $74,000 and the $7500 lease credit, almost a bargain. Very very happy with my decision. Yes, Elon is a jerk but the Model S is still at the top of the EV heap!!!
Styling, speed, options and efficiency
Repairs after warrantee, customer service
I purchased it used in 2019 with 32,000 miles. Fully loaded even with Ludicrous +. Four years later at 83,000 miles on my way to Arizona in July, the AC shows a fault and the cool air turns hot. I have my dog with me and we’re dying for 2 hours. We get to Arizona and the next day I have a flat. Take it to Discount Tire and they say they might be able to get me a tire, maybe tomorrow. Luckily I got the tire replaced and picked the car up by 8 pm. For the AC problem. It reset itself until I returned home and the faults started reappearing more and more frequently, until it would not clear I imputed the problem in my app for repair Service. The next day I get a email that/ The charge is $1,800.00 No loaner No pickup Find your way home Get a ride back I’ve never had a automobile AC go out!!! Buyer beware: you’ll be alone once that warrantee runs out.