Overall Rating
Updated on: July 20, 2020
Automotive Journalist
Mr Musk and his Teslas are here to prove that burning gas is not the only way to go fast. Introducing the California-made 2018 Tesla Model S. This luxury large car offers unparalleled performance while still being friendly to nature. Although no electric car can even match Tesla's performance, not many gas cars can provide the same performance in a similar price range either. Sure, there are cars with a more upscale cabin, but Tesla's performance and hi-tech gadgets push it further than any car has gone before.
A relative eccentric car in the world, Tesla Model S Sedan is far more acrobatic than any car on the road and amazes one to no end. Colossal acceleration, cutting-edge technology and covering 315 miles on a full charge, this automobile is absolutely an electric grandeur sedan which gives you a feeling of floating in the air while driving it. Tesla offers two trims in this model and they all offer comfortable seating for 5 and 1-speed automatic transmission, making it stand alone in the crowd of the petrol/diesel driven cars. The standard drivetrain is RWD. Alternatively, it comes with AWD.
Longest range than any other EV
Ludicrously quick acceleration
Quiet and comfortable
Elegant Styling
Interiors feels under-equipped for the price.
Resale value - Not determined
Rear-seat headroom is a bit tight
“Standard Range” variant dropped
New Electric motors increasing range and performance
Adaptive air suspensions
Capable of V3 supercharging
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Features
Interior
Safety
Competition
8.7
OVERALL RATING
Overall Rating
This car bleeds to surpass your every assumption about any car. If you are drawn towards electric vehicles, the 2020 Tesla Model S Sedan will give you the best run for your money. Fully boosted with electricity, the Model S can dash from zero to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. If that doesn’t pop your eyes and makes your heart run in the synchronization with the car, I don’t know what will. The Model S was roaming the wind unchallenged. A real competitor never rose to claim its place in the market, until now. The Porsche Taycan full electric sedan has risen to challenge the Model S for the slot of King of the Electric Sedan.
While there are no direct rivals to the Model S, manufacturers like Lexus, BMW and Porsche have hybrids in the form of the LS 500h, 740e X Drive and the Panamera e-Hybrid respectively. A real competitor never rose to claim its place in the market, until now. The Porsche Taycan full electric sedan has risen to challenge the Model S for the slot of King of the Electric Sedan.
9.0/10
Features
9.0/10
Interior
7.5/10
Safety
9.0/10
Competition
The 2020 Tesla Model S is a 5 passenger luxury sedan available in two trims which are Long Range and Performance. Talking about the differences, the Standard Range Model S offers 310 miles of range and a 0-60 time of 4.2 seconds. The Long Range trim adds 25 miles of range to the previous trim and can be upgraded in the standard trim through an OTA software update.
Trim |
Long Range |
Performance |
---|---|---|
MSRP |
$79,990 |
$99,990 |
Key Features |
Higher Range |
Carbon Fibre Spoiler |
Heated Seats |
Ludicrous Mode |
|
Wiper Blade Defroster |
|
|
Heated steering wheels |
|
|
Washer nozzle heater |
||
HEPA air filtration |
||
1-year Satellite Radio |
||
In-car internet browser, music, and media streaming |
||
Bluetooth |
||
Location-based automatic garage door opener |
||
LED fog lamps |
||
Tinted glass roof with UV & infrared protection |
||
Custom Drive Profiles |
||
Auto-Dimming, power holding, heated side mirrors |
We recommend the Long Range trim of the 2020 Tesla model S as it bundles a lot of performance and a superb range with it. Whichever trim you get, we do highly recommend the Enhanced Autopilot option. A mind-boggling 0 to 60 of 2.4 seconds, and also a carbon fibre spoiler. We also recommend to opt-in for the Autopilot Package. It's not a true Tesla without one.
The Model S is available only with a 100KWh battery pack and gets AWD as standard in all trims. This has been made possible by the use of dual motors, one for the front wheels and one for the rear. k. These dual motors let the Model S reach power speeds in seconds, breaking the stigma of being tardy machines that electric cars were stuck with for so long.
The transmission duties are performed by a single-speed direct-drive unit that powers all the 4 wheels. Its silent quick acceleration is astonishing, putting its rival out of the competition. The horsepower and the torque of Tesla’s engine are surprising. Don’t you think the combination of an athletic shape and mind-blowing speed is quite electric?
Models |
Tesla Model S |
Porsche Taycan |
---|---|---|
MSRP |
$79,990 |
$152,250 |
Engine |
Electric Motor |
Electric Motor |
Transmission |
1 Direct speed |
2 speed automatic |
Horsepower |
762 |
670 |
Torque |
723 lb-ft |
626 lb-ft |
The Porsche Taycan has lesser power than the Model S when both the cars are powered by two motors on each end. The Porsche Taycan costs substantially more than the Model S. The front motor of the Taycan has a 1 speed Direct Drive Transmission while the rear motor has a 2-speed transmission.
For a vehicle this size, the MODEL S has brisk acceleration and remarkable handling. Whether it's the open roads or a stop sign, Tesla's performance-based sedan will always satisfy your speed needs. It accelerates from 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds while the long-range model takes only 2.4 seconds to touch 60 mph on the speedometer.
The Tesla Model S Sedan speaks for itself. It has the fastest and the most silent acceleration seen in any EV. 10.5 seconds for a quarter-mile should put it on the top of the car of the year list. The car which is at par with the performance of the Model S is Ferrari’s hypercar, the FXX K costing $3Million!
Models |
Tesla Model S |
Porsche Taycan |
---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
2.4 seconds |
2.6 seconds |
Quarter mile |
10.69 |
10.8 |
Engine |
Electric Motor |
Electric Motor |
Emission (Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
N/A |
N/A |
The Model S is the quickest car of the two. The exciting new addition from Porsche cant matches the Model S in acceleration, with a 0-60 of 2.6 seconds.
Tesla comes with regenerative braking or turning the motor into a generator to recharge the battery pack, slowing the car in the process. Just like the acceleration pedal (can't call it gas' pedal now, can we?), the brake pedal gives a more predictable feel as compared to some other electric vehicles. The friction brakes are still there for hard or panic braking but they're used only a fraction as much.
Model |
Tesla Model S |
Porsche Taycan |
---|---|---|
Brake Front (in.) |
14 |
16.3 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
14.4 |
14.4 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
4941 |
4960 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
113 |
114 |
The Model S takes just 113 feet to come to a halt from 60 mph. That's impressive for a vehicle this heavy. This is possible thanks to Tesla's sticky summer tires and its able regenerative brakes. The Porsche, on the other hand, stays true to its racing pedigree and stops at 114 feet.
The 2020 Tesla Model S showcases impressive balance while entering corners, transitioning through the bend and exiting it powerfully. The heavy battery is the reason behind its low-centre-of gravity and the weight distribution from front to rear is quite uniform. The new automatically adaptive air suspension adjusts the car according to the real-time needs of the road, on the fly. It gives the Model S an extra 3 inches of ground clearance when needed. The 2020 Model S has a really low centre of gravity because of the way the batteries are mounted. This low centre of gravity keeps the Model S firmly planted on the road with minimal body roll in turns.
This isn't a sports car, but you might not remember that when you drive it. Thanks to sharp steering and incredibly sticky summer performance tires, the grip of this car are impressive. Corner-carving is also aided by the immediate pedal response. And because of its low weight, it can sprint like Usain Bolt! There are smoother rides, but the Model S never feels rough or course. The battery pack is close to the ground acting as car’s floor pan due to which you can’t stretch out more but it’s not uncomfortable.
While the Tesla Model S runs on Electric Power, it has certainly raised the bar for the distances that can be traversed by an Electric Car when charged fully. What sweetens the case for the Tesla is the wide range of Supercharger stations around the US and the upgraded Superchargers that can charge 50% of the Model S' battery in just 5 minutes. Tesla also bundles a 20 feet long charging cable and multiple adapters of different ratings, to make it easier for consumers to charge their Tesla from various charging stations.
It has a range of 345 or 370 depending on the variant you choose. Also, the Model S now comes with V3 Supercharging which Tesla claims will charge the car 25% faster. Tesla also bundles a 20 feet long charging cable and multiple adapters of different ratings, to make it easier for consumers to charge their Tesla from various charging stations.
Model |
Tesla Model S |
Porsche Taycan |
---|---|---|
MPGE (city) |
102 |
92 |
MPGE (highway) |
107 |
105 |
MPGE (combined) |
104 |
98 |
Range (miles) |
370 |
260 |
The Porsche Taycan has a range of 260 miles. This makes the 2020 Tesla Model S have the most range among its competitors. Even when comparing the Model S Performance and the Taycan Turbo S, the Model S travels farther with a range of 345 miles compared to the 225 miles on the Taycan.
The 2020 Tesla Model S comes standard with leatherette seats that are heated and 12-way power-adjustable in the front. Buyers have the option of upgrading to leather seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and two rear-facing jump seat for small children. For a car that costs as much as a Tesla, other manufacturers are able to provide a much more refined interior for the same price. Passenger comfort is excellent in the front. In the second row, the sloping roofline hinders the headroom for taller passengers.
The ride quality is excellent. Smooth and totally isolated from the outside world as in-cabin noise is to a minimum. There are no engine sounds that might seep in and the tire noise won't bother anyone anytime soon. The new automatically adaptive air suspension works hard to handle all the obstructions on the road. It eliminates vibrations effortlessly. Teslas never had any problems with visibility. Wide viewing angles along with its plethora of autonomous features make the Model S one of the easiest and tension-free cars to drive. It's multi-level heated and ventilated seats provide 8-way power adjustments along with with power lumbar support.
Model |
Tesla Model S |
Porsche Taycan |
---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
5 |
5 |
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
38.8/57.7/42.7 |
- |
A second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
35.3/55/35.4 |
- |
Comparing the internal seating of the 2020 Model S and the Taycan won't be possible as the dimensions of the Porsche Taycan has not been disclosed yet.
The most eye-catching aspect of the Tesla Model S’s cabin is its massive 17-inch touchscreen that fills up most of the dashboard. This screen houses the climate controls, infotainment, and all of the vehicle’s settings. It is highly interactive and quicker than an iPad. No other maker even comes close to the benchmark set by Tesla for in-cabin technology. The seats are comfortable and provide with excellent visibility. But the material quality could use a little help. For a car that costs as much as a Tesla, other manufacturers are able to provide a much more refined interior for the same price.
Some of the features are listed below -
With more than 26 cubic feet of cargo room in the rear which can go up to 58 cubes with the rear seats folded, and an additional 5 cubic feet of storage room available under the hood because of the lack of a conventional engine, the 2017 Tesla Model can store anything from long dresser bureaus to even bicycles!
Model |
Tesla Model S |
Porsche Taycan |
---|---|---|
Cargo Volume with rear seats up (ft.3) |
26 |
12.9 |
Cargo Volume with rear seats down (ft.3) |
58
|
12.9 |
The Tesla cars brought forth a revolution in the way people thought about electric cars, and their simple and uncluttered design set them apart just as much as their capabilities with an electric motor. Till 2016, the Model Swore a faux grille which is now ditched for a more daring grille-less design along with revised headlights. The absence of a front grille, the sleek, futuristic design, and an attractive back makes the Model S look apart. The Model S comes with a White multi-coat paint job and 19-inch silver wheels. The other paint jobs and wheels are available as options. The attractive 21-inch “Sonic Carbon Twin Turbine” wheels are a $4500 option, while the paint option range from $1500-$2500.
Although the Model S is very sporty, its shape is designed to cut the smallest hole through the air possible. Due to its all-electric powertrain, and low weight, it’s the most desirable EV or car, for that matter, in the market. You won't find any door-handles anywhere, but when you approach the car with the key fob, the retractable handles emerge out for you. In the rear, the simple yet daring and classy look continues. The taillights hold another secret, the recharging port is actually hidden behind the taillight, so as to not be a constant freckle on an otherwise clean design.
Model |
Tesla Model S |
Porsche Taycan |
---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
4941 |
4960 |
Length(in) |
196 |
195.4 |
Width(in) |
86.2 |
77.4 |
Height(in) |
56.5 |
54.3 |
Ground clearance (in) |
4.6 |
- |
Wheelbase (in) |
116 |
114.2 |
Track width (in) F/R |
65.4/66.9 |
67/65.6 |
The Model S has more attractive dimensions than the Taycan. Its lighter, while having more length and a longer wheelbase. The Taycan is however substantially narrower than the Model S.
Like the striking design of the 2020 Model S, Tesla has added plenty of features on the outside to complement the futuristic design. These are few of the features on the outside of the 2020 Tesla Model S
Tesla boasts of safety in its cars and the Tesla Model S is no different. The Model S comes loaded with a bag full of safety features and for 2020, Tesla has made the optional safety features found in the 2019 car as standard for 2020. The following are the list of a few safety features in the 2020 Model S.
Last but not least, it will Auto Park itself, both perpendicular and parallel. Tesla has something called the “Sentry Mode” which monitors the car’s surroundings in case of any suspicion, such as loud noise, people lurking near the car and record everything from outside and even inside the cabin if needed in an attempt of a break-in.
Other Safety Features are:
The Taycan is the new offering from Porsche launching in 2020. It's an all-electric sedan, and with its release, the Tesla Model S finally has some real competition. However, it doesn't, at least as far as performance is concerned. The Model S is lighter, faster, quicker, and has more range. The Porsche However will nudge Tesla to step up their interior game. Taycan’s majestic interiors look spectacular compared to the Model S’s, which some people have chosen to call uninspired.
The Tesla autopilot which was claimed to be twice as safe as the human behind the wheel has let down us. That said, the vehicle has won awards, thrilled thousands of buyers broke a lot of stereotypes and aced it’s safety federal tests. With its improved performance and handling, the Model S is a force to reckon with.
A performance which throws you back in four-seat in a form factor which is practical and reliable is a deadly combo. With the rise of electric vehicles on the road, Tesla is becoming a household name and the Model S is leading the march to new tomorrows.