The car that started the EV revolution is starting to show its age. While the 2023 Tesla Model S lags behind newly developed rivals with more advanced features and longer range, the sedan-like hatchback continues to be competitive. After all, the Model S offers up to 405 miles of range on a single charge. Additionally, the 1020-hp tri-motor Plaid performance model surges to 60 mph in just 2.1 seconds, which is as fast as a million-dollar hypercar. However, cutting-edge competitors like the BMW i7 and Lucid Air have taken much of the spotlight away from Tesla. The Model S also has a six-figure price tag that doesn't match its mid-luxe interior, especially compared to the Lucid and BMW's deluxe cabins. We thought Tesla's odd yoke-style steering wheel also hurt the driving experience, but at least the regular wheel is once again available. However, the 2023 Model S remains the brand's flagship, offering access to its most advanced software and Tesla's advanced — if somewhat dubious — AutoPilot hands-free driving mode.
This year, the Model S adds a new key card that replaces the previous standard car-shaped key fob. The regular steering wheel also returns as a no-cost option (a $700 retrofit is also available to current owners). Since Tesla is known for making changes to its cars every model year, be prepared for more changes to the Model S to come.
We'll stick with the base model, which carries an estimated range of 405 miles per charge. The ultra-high-performance Plaid model sounds interesting, but its nearly $138k starting price suggests diminishing value—unless you absolutely must have a car with speed reminiscent of a Top Fuel dragster.
EV Motors, Power, and Performance
With dedicated electric motors for each of the front and rear axles, the Model S offers full-time all-wheel drive no matter which version you choose. Acceleration of the various models ranges from excellent to incredible. Our 2020 Model S test vehicle delivered an incredible 2.4-second sprint to 60 mph and proved endlessly entertaining thanks to its immediate power delivery. The Plaid version offers a third electric motor, which increases combined output to 1020 horsepower—enough to send it to 60 mph in just 2.1 seconds. The standard S model has proven itself to be a nimble sports sedan with well-controlled body movements and direct steering. Two different settings allow the driver to choose heavy or light steering effort, but neither allows for much feedback from the road. Unfortunately, the available yoke-style steering wheel isn't well integrated and detracts from the driving experience; The regular steering wheel is a no-cost option. Ride comfort is good, handling is nimble, and it's confident and almost composed on the road.
Interior, Comfort and Cargo
With Model S prices starting at $100,000, it's reasonable for buyers to expect a certain amount of luxury in the car. The cabin ambience is quite nice, but not as luxurious as our favorites like the Mercedes-Benz E-class and Volvo S90 — both of which are much cheaper. The Model S's sloping roofline cleverly hides a rear liftgate that opens to reveal a large 26-cubic-foot trunk. We managed to store our eight carry-on-sized suitcases without folding the rear seats. The paltry small-item storage areas throughout the interior — especially in the rear seats — are offset by a large underfloor bin in the rear cargo area.
