First generation Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S was the company’s breakthrough model, designed from the ground up as an electric car from the outset. It continues to be a benchmark for an all-electric luxury sedan. Unlike every other automaker, Tesla iterates on the same vehicle over a long period of time rather than introducing new generations every few years. Today’s Model S looks similar to the original that went on sale in 2012, but under the skin there have been dramatic changes.
Overall range has grown from a maximum of 265 miles to more than 400 miles today, all-wheel drive is an option, and power has increased dramatically. Tesla’s eight-year/150,000 mile battery warranty ensures at least 70% of original capacity, providing used-car shoppers peace of mind. You can charge at home or at a public charging station using an adapter, or you can take advantage of Tesla’s exclusive network of Supercharger fast-charging stations.
The styling was subtly tweaked for a sleeker look in 2016, and the interior received a thorough upgrade in 2021. The company also knows how to have fun, giving its most powerful features and models tongue-in-cheek names inspired by the Mel Brooks’ sci-fi spoof Spaceballs, like the Ludicrous acceleration mode or the Plaid high-performance model that debuted for 2021. Though the names may be silly, the car is no joke, and it remains a strong competitor even against newer EVs from established luxury brands.
Model highlights
Model S Plaid features more than 1,000 hp, blistering acceleration
Over-the-air (OTA) updates to vehicle software keep older models up-to-date
Available with folding rear-facing third row (until 2018)
Some versions have more than 400 miles of range
Access to the Tesla Supercharger network
Similar vehicles
Customers who look at a Tesla Model S also often look at these similar vehicles:
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2012 - 2024
2024 Tesla Model S
Highlights
No significant changes
2023 Tesla Model S
Highlights
Round steering wheel available again
Key card replaces standard key fob
Learn more
2022 Tesla Model S
Highlights
Power-swiveling capability added for the center touchscreen
Previous Long Range trim is now simply known as Model S
Available models: Model S, Plaid
Learn more
2021 Tesla Model S
Highlights
New ultra-performance Plaid version replaces Model S Performance and features three electric motors and 1,020 horsepower
Updated interior features more premium materials, horizontally oriented touchscreen, yoke-style steering
New driver information display and rear-passenger entertainment display
Available models: Long Range, Plaid
Learn more
2020 Tesla Model S
Highlights
Long Range Plus replaces Long Range (midyear change)
Available models: Long Range, Long Range Plus, Performance
Learn more
2019 Tesla Model S
Highlights
Revised lineup; version names with numbers are phased out
Available models: Standard Range, Extended Range, Long Range, Performance
Learn more
2018 Tesla Model S
Highlights
60 and 60D discontinued, making 75D the lowest-priced model
All Model S trims feature all-wheel drive
Third-row seat and Executive Rear Seat package discontinued
Available models: 75D, 100D, P100D
Learn more
2017 Tesla Model S
Highlights
100D (EPA-estimated 335-mile range) and P100D (EPA-estimated 315-mile range) introduced, the longest-range and quickest models to date
Air suspension standard
Available models: 60, 60D, 75, 75D, 90D, 100D, P100D
Learn more
2016 Tesla Model S
Highlights
New front-end styling removes black grille insert
70 and 70D replaced by 60 and 60D (EPA-estimated 218-mile range)
75 (EPA-estimated 249-mile range) and 75D (EPA-estimated 259-mile range) introduced as midrange model
Available models: 60, 60D, 75, 75D, 90D, P90D
Learn more
2015 Tesla Model S
Highlights
P85 replaced by P90 (EPA-estimated 253-mile range) midyear
70D (EPA-estimated 240-mile range) added to lineup, providing dual-motor system at a lower price
Autopilot suite of advanced driver assist systems introduced as extra-cost software upgrade to 2014 and newer cars
Available models: 60, 70D, P85, P85D, P90, P90D
Learn more
2014 Tesla Model S
Highlights
New P85D introduces new dual-motor drivetrain, adding all-wheel drive
60D also introduced as lower-price all-wheel-drive version
Safety updates include new 360-degree sonar system, automatic emergency braking, later used with Autopilot software upgrade
Available models: 60, 85, P85, P85D
Learn more
2013 Tesla Model S
2012 Tesla Model S
Highlights
All-new Tesla Model S debuts
17-inch vertical touchscreen standard in all models
Available rear-facing third-row seat for children features built-in seatbelts
Available air suspension
Range up to 265 miles, the highest range of any EV at the time
Sleek hatchback shape with more than 26 cubic feet of cargo space
“Frunk” front storage adds additional 5.3 cubic feet of cargo room
Available models: 40, 60, 85, P85
Looking for 2011 models or older?
CarMax only sells 2012 models and newer. But no matter the year, we'll happily buy your car.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to provide legal, financial or investment advice. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before transacting and consider talking to a qualified professional about your unique circumstances.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Editorial content contained on this page comes from Edmunds.com, Inc., a subsidiary of CarMax Enterprise Service, LLC, and information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.