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2016 Tesla Model S

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$68,000

starting MSRP

Key specs

Base trim shown

Sedan

Body style

98
Combined MPGe Combined MPGe

Miles per gallon-equivalent is how the EPA provides efficiency ratings for battery-electric vehicles in a way that can be used in comparison with gasoline-powered vehicles. Actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, elevation changes, weather, accessory usage (lights, climate control), vehicle condition and other factors.

Related: Top 10 Most Efficient Electric Cars
210-265 mi.
EPA-est. range EPA-est. range

EPA-estimated range is the distance, or predicted distance, a new plug-in vehicle will travel on electric power before its battery charge is exhausted. Actual range will vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, elevation changes, weather, accessory usage (lights, climate control), vehicle condition and other factors.

Related: Electric Cars With The Longest Range
10-12 hrs.
Level 2 charging Level 2 charging

Charge time estimates are based on using a 240-volt charging circuit charging from empty to 100% battery capacity. Level 2 is the fastest way to charge at home, though charging times can vary and are dependent on factors such as the capabilities of the charging circuit, charging equipment and the vehicle’s onboard charger. Level 2 charging time provided by Chrome Data, a JD Power company.

60-85 kWh
Battery capacity Battery capacity

Battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours, which is a measure of how much energy is used over time. A 70-kWh battery has more energy capacity than a 50-kWh battery and would result in a longer driving range if all other factors were equal. But more battery capacity doesn’t always mean longer range because of differences in energy consumption from vehicle to vehicle. Battery capacity provided by Chrome Data, a JD Power company.

7

Seating capacity

196” x 56.5”

Dimensions

Rear-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

(40 reviews)

The good:

  • Stylish design
  • Longer than average EV range
  • Quick acceleration
  • Fast charging
  • Requires no charging hardware
  • Updatability
  • Autopilot semi-autonomous operation (optional)

The bad:

  • Expensive
  • Body roll
  • Low-frequency rumble
  • Skimps on cupholders and cabin storage
  • Limited availability
  • Touch-screen can freeze
  • Range decreases in cold weather

11 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2016 Tesla Model S trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best Sedans for 2025

Notable features

  • Extended-range battery-electric car
  • Four-door hatch seats five
  • Two additional seats for children (optional)
  • Three performance levels
  • Rear- or all-wheel drive
  • Designed and built in the U.S.

2016 Tesla Model S review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

What is it: The Tesla Model S is an electric-powered sedan that aims for the luxury market and those interested in the latest technology.

New for 2016: New front-end styling and the car’s standard onboard charger gets a mild boost from 40 to 48 amps, enabling faster charging under certain conditions.

Tesla Motors has revealed the first-ever styling changes to the Model S. The most obvious are changes to the sedan’s front-end styling, where a new face and headlights bring the Model S in line with the Model X SUV’s face, eliminating the vestigial grille and replacing it with a slimmer opening and cleaned-up bumper.

Other changes to the latest version (Tesla doesn’t designate model years like other automakers) include some tech updates as well. The Model S’ standard onboard charger gets a mild boost from 40 to 48 amps, enabling faster charging under certain conditions.

Inside, the HEPA air filtration system that was previously only available on the Model X now joins the Model S’ options list. Tesla says it’s 99.97 percent effective at removing airborne contaminants. Two new interior décor choices are also newly available: Figured Ash Wood or Dark Ash Wood.

The updated model has just begun production at the company’s plant in Fremont, Calif., with deliveries expected by mid-May, according to Tesla’s website.

Consumer reviews

(40 reviews)
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.9
  • Interior 4.8
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 4.4
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 4.9
Write a review

Most recent consumer reviews

Most reliable car I ever had.

Never spent a $ on maintenance of this car. It is extremely reliable, stylish, status symbol. i am selling this car as I want to buy a new Tesla.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
29 people out of 33 found this review helpful. Did you?
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The best vehicle that I’ve ever driven.

Amazing Beauty, this car still gets a ton of respect on the road. All my future cars will be from Tesla. The performance is amazing, and the ride is so smooth!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Transporting family
  • Does recommend this car
7 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Best Car Ever!

Fantastic Vehicle! I will never go back to a combustion engine again.I will stick with Tesla. When you commute as far as I do the savings in gas alone is incredible! Not to mention oil changes.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
10 people out of 10 found this review helpful. Did you?
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See all 40 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
48 months/50,000 miles
Corrosion
144 months/unlimited distance
Powertrain
96 months/unlimited distance
Roadside assistance
48 months/50,000 miles

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