Vehicle Overview
The Tesla Model S, launched in 2012, remains one of the most influential electric cars ever built — the model that defined the modern EV era.
Over a decade later, the 2025 Model S continues to evolve, combining supercar-level performance, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional range in a sleek luxury liftback body. Constant software updates, minimalist design, and rapid charging capability keep it at the forefront of electric innovation.
Offered in two variants — Model S Dual Motor (Long Range) and the Model S Plaid (Tri-Motor Performance) — it competes with the Porsche Taycan, Lucid Air, and Mercedes EQS, offering a blend of efficiency, performance, and everyday usability that few can match.
Key Specifications (2025 Tesla Model S Plaid & Dual Motor)
| Specification | Model S Dual Motor | Model S Plaid |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual Motor AWD | Tri-Motor AWD |
| Power Output | ~670 hp (500 kW) | 1,020 hp (760 kW) |
| Torque | 1,000+ Nm (estimated) | 1,420+ Nm |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic | Single-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | 3.1 sec | 1.99 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) | 200 mph (322 km/h, with track pack) |
| Battery Capacity (usable) | ~100 kWh | ~100 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 405 miles (652 km) | Up to 373 miles (600 km) |
| Charging (Supercharger V3) | Up to 250 kW (10–80% in ~25 min) | Same |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,980 mm / 1,964 mm / 1,445 mm | Same |
| Boot Capacity | 709 L + 89 L frunk (798 L total) |
Exterior Design
The Tesla Model S retains its timeless, minimalist silhouette — sleek, aerodynamic, and instantly recognizable. The latest refresh adds subtle aggression while maintaining elegance.
Design highlights
Streamlined fastback shape (Cd 0.208 – one of the lowest drag coefficients in the world)
Slim adaptive LED headlights and flush door handles
Smooth body lines with frameless doors and sculpted panels
Full-width LED taillight bar with Tesla script
19-inch Tempest or 21-inch Arachnid wheels
Panoramic all-glass roof
The overall look is clean, futuristic, and aerodynamic, reflecting Tesla’s “less is more” design philosophy. It’s understated luxury with performance intent.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Inside, the Model S combines minimalist design with advanced digital technology, wrapped in premium materials. The latest redesign brings notable improvements in comfort, build quality, and space.
Interior highlights
17-inch horizontal central touchscreen with cinematic resolution (2,200 x 1,300)
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel
Optional “Yoke” steering or traditional round wheel (from 2024)
Premium vegan leather upholstery and aluminium or wood trim
Tri-zone climate control and ventilated front seats
Rear 8-inch passenger display for media and climate
Wireless charging pads and USB-C fast charging for all seats
Heated seats (all five) and heated steering wheel
Cabin quality is now among the best in its class, with exceptional comfort, quietness, and tech integration.
Features & Infotainment
The 2025 Model S remains a technology benchmark in the EV world.
17-inch central infotainment system powered by Tesla OS
Dual-processor computing power equivalent to modern gaming consoles (AMD Ryzen GPU)
Wireless Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, and Bluetooth streaming
Built-in gaming via Steam integration (with controller support)
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
Premium audio system (960W, 22 speakers with active noise cancellation)
Built-in dashcam and Sentry Mode
Integrated navigation with live Supercharger availability
Driver profiles synced via Tesla app
The interface is intuitive, lightning-fast, and constantly improving — making it a true digital-first luxury car.
Safety & Ratings
The Model S continues Tesla’s streak of outstanding safety performance, achieving top scores globally for occupant and crash protection.
Safety highlights include
Autopilot (standard) – adaptive cruise, lane keeping, and traffic-aware steering
Optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) package with Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Summon, and Traffic Light recognition (region-dependent)
Eight external cameras + radar + ultrasonic sensors
Automatic Emergency Braking & Collision Avoidance Assist
Lane Departure Warning & Emergency Lane Return
Over-the-air safety system updates
5-star NHTSA rating (U.S.) across all categories
Tesla’s active safety tech continues to set benchmarks, with continuous improvements via software updates.
Driving Performance
The Model S delivers staggering performance — particularly in Plaid form, where it borders on hypercar territory while remaining practical.
Driving impressions
Instant acceleration – the Plaid’s 0–60 mph in under 2 seconds redefines the concept of “fast”
Dual- and tri-motor AWD systems provide incredible traction
Adaptive air suspension balances ride comfort and sharp handling
Perfectly balanced low center of gravity from battery pack
Regenerative braking adjustable for one-pedal driving
Track Mode (Plaid) for torque vectoring and thermal control
Despite its speed, the Model S is smooth, composed, and whisper-quiet, making it as suitable for long journeys as it is for supercar-baiting acceleration bursts.
Efficiency / EV Range
| Battery | ~100 kWh lithium-ion |
Range (WLTP)
| Model S Dual Motor | 405 miles (652 km) |
| Model S Plaid | 373 miles (600 km) |
| Energy consumption | 18–20 kWh/100 km |
Charging
| DC (Supercharger V3) | up to 250 kW (10–80% in ~25 min) |
| AC (Type 2) | up to 11 kW |
| Tesla Supercharger Network | 50,000+ stations worldwide (2025) |
It remains one of the longest-range and most efficient luxury EVs ever made.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
The Model S proves that high performance and everyday usability can coexist.
| Boot space | 709 L (rear) + 89 L (front) |
| Total storage | 798 L — class-leading for an EV sedan |
Flat floor and wide-opening liftback tailgate
Comfortable 5-seat layout (7-seat option discontinued)
Excellent long-distance comfort with low noise levels
| Tesla App remote functions | pre-conditioning, Summon, charging control |
The Model S works as both a grand tourer and family car, something few performance EVs can claim.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Vehicle warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Battery & Drive Unit warranty | 8 years / 150,000 miles (whichever comes first) |
| Service interval | Minimal — recommended inspection every 2 years |
OTA diagnostics handle most updates remotely
| Roadside assistance | Included during warranty period |
With virtually no fluids, filters, or belts to replace, the Model S has lower maintenance costs than any equivalent petrol-powered luxury car.
Price & Value for Money
| Variant | Powertrain | Range (WLTP) | Starting Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model S Dual Motor AWD | 670 hp | 405 mi | ~£92,000 |
| Model S Plaid (Tri-Motor) | 1,020 hp | 373 mi | ~£112,000 |
The Model S isn’t cheap, but it delivers supercar performance, limousine comfort, and EV running costs — a combination unmatched in the market.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Range (WLTP) | 0–62 mph | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model S Dual Motor | Dual-motor | 405 mi | 3.1s | £92k |
| Tesla Model S Plaid | Tri-motor | 373 mi | 1.99s | £112k |
| Porsche Taycan GTS | Dual-motor | 312 mi | 3.7s | £108k |
| Lucid Air Touring | Dual-motor | 425 mi | 3.4s | £105k |
| Mercedes EQS 580 | Dual-motor | 395 mi | 4.3s | £115k |
Even after more than a decade, the Model S remains one of the fastest, most efficient, and best-value electric luxury cars in its class.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Blistering performance, especially Plaid version
Exceptional range and charging infrastructure
Futuristic design and intuitive tech
Huge boot space and comfort
Continuous OTA updates and low running costs
Cons
Expensive options and long delivery times
Minimalist interior may not suit everyone
Build quality can be inconsistent compared to German rivals
⭐ Overall Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8 / 5)
Final Verdict
The 2025 Tesla Model S remains a benchmark for electric luxury and performance. It combines incredible speed, long range, and advanced software with the practicality of a five-door liftback.
While newer rivals have caught up in refinement and craftsmanship, few can match the Tesla’s blend of real-world range, performance, and constant innovation. It’s still the electric executive car to beat — a modern classic that keeps evolving.
| Who it’s for | Tech enthusiasts, performance seekers, and professionals who want supercar acceleration and 400-mile range in a practical, luxury EV. |
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Pros & cons
- Smooth and quiet electric driving character
- Potentially low home-charging costs for regular commuters
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
- Public charging costs and winter range need checking before purchase
Final verdict
The Model S is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting quiet electric running and low local emissions. |
| Body style | Saloon/Fastback |
| Powertrain focus | Electric |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Model S good for UK roads?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.