Tesla Model S P100D Review
Car Tested: Tesla Model S; Road Test No. 982; Test Location: Virginia, USA
Price USA: $74,500 – $1,35,000 (Rs. 51.14 – 92.67 lakhs)
Performance sedans are something that people have a real big soft corner for!
The world is moving towards SUVs but performance saloons will continue to thrive because of their sports car-like performance and a proper 4 door saloon-like practicality they offer. This is the reason we have the Porsche Panamera, Maserati Quattroporte and the go fast versions of the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7-Series. But when Tesla launched the Model S, it decided to overtake everybody by offering everything in an all-electric form which is completely different. Claims on the Tesla Model S are tall but does it deliver?
Exteriors – Simplistic yet elegant, that’s what the Tesla Model S’ exterior is all about. The front fascia houses the traditional Tesla grille flanked by the futuristic-looking LED DRL headlights on either side. The lower bumper has large air intakes and under the hood, because there is no engine, you do get 150-litres of storage space. At the sides, the design is rather plain but what does really stand out are the flush door handles and the coupe-like sloping roofline. Wheel options include 19-inch or 21-inch alloy wheels while at the rear, the LED tail-lights look classy and the lip spoiler on the boot lid looks sporty plus aids in better aerodynamics.
Interiors – In terms of cabin design, the Model S shares its cabin with the Model X. The 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel, the fully digital instrument console and even the 17-inch tablet-like touchscreen infotainment system are all identical to ones we’ve seen in the Model X. The latter is, of course, the highlight of the Model S which gets Bluetooth connectivity and also doubles up as a reverse camera display. In terms of features, the Model S comes genuinely loaded. There is an 11-speaker audio system, ambient lighting, heated seats and steering wheel, 12-way power adjustable front seats with memory function, keyless entry and heated mirrors.
The interior of the Tesla Model S is uncluttered yet extremeley functional
The front seats are comfortable and supportive like you’d expect. The rear bench has ample legroom and shoulder room but the headroom is on the tighter side for people above 6″. Ingress and egress is a breeze but unlike the Model X, the doors do not open/close electronically. The all-electric saloon gets 744-litres of boot space which is more than enough for a weekend’s luggage to fit in for a nuclear family.
