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Russ Heaps has produced automotive content for newspapers, magazines, and websites since 1987. Knight-Ridder recognized his contributions in founding and supplying content for the stand-alone auto section in the Boca Raton News with a Knight-Ridder Excellence award nomination in 1990. He began contributing advice and other automotive-related content to Cox Automotive as a contractor in 2010. Cox Automotive brought Russ on board as Senior Editor, Advice for Kelley Blue Book in 2022. Previously, he contributed financial and automotive content for Bankrate.com. He was also managing editor for Auto World and NOPI Street Performance Compact magazines for four years. His work has appeared in the Washington Times, the Miami Herald, the Palm Beach Post, and a host of other newspapers on a syndicated basis. 
Russ also has a deep background in travel as the supervising producer for the syndicated television series Discover America where he also wrote scripts and field-produced episodes. Additionally, he authored travel stories for AAA of the Carolinas Magazine.
He graduated Wittenberg University with a degree in Political Science. His passions are friends, cars, bourbon, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Russ Heaps

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2026Nissan Armada

2026Nissan Armada Archives - Kelley Blue Book

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$53,500 - $63,499

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2-Line Blurb

140-Character Blurb

The Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV with a wide variety in its model range and the best safety ratings in its class.

Cons

<ul>
<li>Rivals are roomier</li>
<li>High fuel costs</li>
</ul>

Power, Ride, and Handling

Driving Impressions

The 2026 Nissan Armada is powered by a 425-hp turbocharged V6 engine matched with a 9-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD). This engine makes more power and torque than the V8 in the previous generation of the Armada. Upgrading to the NISMO trim pumps up the horsepower rating to 460.
We were impressed when we tested this generation of the Nissan Armada and didn’t miss the old V8, even when we towed a camper with it. The extra power and torque are noticeable with energetic power delivery that’s smooth on the highway. Speaking of smooth, we were impressed with the Armada’s new adaptive suspension system that underpins the PRO-4X and Platinum Reserve trims. There’s minimal roll in tight turns and hardly any nosedive effect in hard braking, making this big SUV feel very stable.
One of the new Armada features we’re most excited about is ProPILOT Assist 2.1. This option allows for hands-off driving on highways mapped by Nissan. It keeps you safely in your lane at a safe distance from the car in front of you; all you need to do is stay alert with your eyes on the road. The hands-free functionality works well, and Nissan estimates about 200,000 miles of North American highways are mapped, which is less than GM’s Super Cruise and more than Ford&#8217;s BlueCruise.
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The 2026 Nissan Armada returns up to 16 city/20 highway/18 combined mpg with rear-wheel drive and 16 city/19 highway/17 combined mpg with 4-wheel drive. Since premium gas is recommended, the turbo V6 in the Armada has the highest fuel costs of any base engine in this class. The standard V8 in the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/tahoe/">Chevy Tahoe</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/gmc/yukon/">GMC Yukon</a> is a little less efficient, but since it runs on regular gas, it has lower <a href="https://fueleconomy.gov/feg/make.shtml" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EPA</a>-estimated fuel costs.
The turbo 6-cylinder engines in the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/ford/expedition/">Ford Expedition</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/jeep/wagoneer/">Jeep Wagoneer</a> are a little more efficient and also run on regular gas. Meanwhile, the hybrid <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/sequoia/">Toyota Sequoia</a> gets up to 22 combined mpg, and the diesel available in the Tahoe and Yukon gets up to 24 combined mpg.

Bold Exterior

Exterior

The Nissan Armada has a boxy, adventurous design and tall ground clearance, which is functional when driving on rough terrain, whether a rocky trail or a snowy road. We like the distinct light signature (especially with the optional full-width LED taillamp) and the two-tone roof treatment on the upper trims. Its aesthetic can range from rugged (PRO-4X) to sporty (NISMO) to fancy (Platinum Reserve).

FAQs

Our Favorite Features and Tech

Favorite Features

Rugged PRO-4X model 
We’ve been impressed with Nissan pickup trucks that have worn the PRO-4X badge, and now the Armada has its own dedicated off-road trim. In addition to standard 4-wheel drive, it has all-terrain tires, eight drive modes, an electronic locking rear differential, Invisible Hood View, and a functional appearance package with real skid plates and a more favorable approach angle.
Fancy Platinum Reserve trim 
If you’ll drive your Armada to charity galas more often than trailheads, then the Platinum Reserve model may be more to your taste. This new luxury trim borrows some features and technology from the Infiniti QX80, including quilted leather massaging seats, Adaptive Electronic Air Suspension, 22-inch wheels, and an available Klipsch audio system.
NISMO model 
The first-ever Armada NISMO joins the lineup for 2026, bringing sporty performance and aesthetics to this plus-size family SUV. It pumps out 460 hp and comes with performance upgrades to its suspension, steering, exhaust, and tires
Hands-free driving 
The Nissan Armada joins a growing number of full-size SUVs offering hands-free driving on select highways. With the available ProPILOT Assist 2.1 system, you can take your hands off the wheel on over 200,000 miles of U.S. highways.
Wireless smartphone connectivity 
We always love to see wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard for easy smartphone connectivity for maps, music, and more.
Towing talent 
The turbo V6 in the Nissan Armada has the same maximum towing capacity as the V8 in the previous generation: 8,500 pounds. That makes this rig suitable for towing a wide range of toys, from boats to campers and more.

Modern Interior

Interior

We admit that we always found the interior space of the previous-generation Nissan Armada disappointing, especially in the third row and cargo area. We must not have been the only ones because Nissan made the Armada’s interior quite a bit roomier with its 2025 redesign, which carries over into 2026. We climbed in the third row and were pleasantly surprised with an extra 5.7 inches of legroom compared to the past models, but found the headroom a little tight for adults. There’s also more legroom in the first row and 24% more cargo space behind the third row. The passenger space is good, but it’s still not as roomy as American rivals.
When we got behind the wheel of the Armada, we were also impressed with the technology and overall quality. Cabin materials and overall fit-and-finish are decidedly upmarket, especially in the Infiniti-like Platinum Reserve trim. At the top trim level, you get luxuries like heated, power-reclining third-row seats, a second-row center console, and what Nissan calls Biometric Cooling, which can detect overheated passengers in the first and second rows and direct more cool air toward them.
Standard dual 12.3-inch displays deliver information to the driver, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard. An immersive Klipsch premium audio system is standard on all but the base trim, and the screens can get even bigger to 14.3 inches each. We were pleased with the ergonomic layout of the controls, but we’re not big fans of the horizontally oriented gearshift buttons by the center console. Maybe the available massaging seats and quilted leather will make us forget about them.

Is the YMM a Good Vehicle?

Is the YMM Reliable?

KBB Editors' Overview

The Nissan Armada doesn’t have the sales numbers of its American rivals in the full-size SUV class, but it makes a strong case as a capable and family-friendly rig. The wide variety in its model range includes the rugged PRO-4X model, the luxurious Platinum Reserve trim, and the sporty new NISMO variant. Meanwhile, the lower trims provide a strong value with lots of standard features at a reasonable price point. The Armada can tow 8,500 pounds, is available with hands-free highway driving, and is the only SUV in its class that earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ rating. It adds up to a practical and value-packed SUV that the whole family will enjoy.
We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-full-size-suvs/">full-size SUVs</a>, including the 2026 Nissan Armada.

Optional Equipment

Pricing - Dynamic

We expect the 2026 Nissan Armada to start at about $59,000. The Armada is historically priced on the lower side of full-size SUVs, and we expect that trend to continue. The luxurious Platinum Reserve trim could start as high as $80,000.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Armada SV</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$59,000 (est)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Armada SL</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$65,000 (est)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Armada Platinum</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$72,000 (est)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Armada NISMO</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$75,000 (est)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Armada PRO-4X</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$76,000 (est)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Armada Platinum Reserve</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$80,000 (est)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Pricing - Static

Before buying an Armada, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Nissan Armada resale value is okay, but it lags behind rivals from GM and Toyota. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

Pros

<ul>
<li>Spacious, high-tech interior</li>
<li>Optional hands-free driving</li>
<li>Great safety ratings</li>
</ul>

Quick New

Safety

Standard Equipment

Trims

Engine and Transmission

Under the Hood

The standard engine powering the Nissan Armada is a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 rated at 425 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. In the NISMO trim, it’s upgraded to 460 hp. That’s more power and torque than the V8 in older models, yet this engine still achieves the same max tow rating of 8,500 pounds. Power is routed to either the rear or all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.
<h3>3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
The Nissan Armada is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This warranty coverage is average for this class.
<h3>Class-Leading Safety Scores</h3>
This generation of the Nissan Armada has earned the coveted Top Safety Pick+ from the <a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IIHS</a>. Notably, it’s the only non-luxury model in the &#8220;Large SUV&#8221; category that earns this honor. It comes well equipped with standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.

What's new for

The first-ever Nissan Armada NISMO <a href="https://www.kbb.com/car-news/2026-nissan-armada-nismo-adds-power-to-size/">joins the lineup</a> for 2026. The high-output tuning of its turbo V6 adds 35 horsepower, bringing its output to 460 hp. Other upgrades include a sporty appearance package inside and out with lots of red trim and sporty enhancements to the exhaust, steering, suspension, and tires.
<h3>On-Sale Date</h3>
The 2026 Nissan Armada will arrive in American dealerships in the this fall.

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2026 Nissan Armada Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

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Frankie Rogers is a senior editor for Kelley Blue Book and focuses on the production of content. She edits and formats content, creates monthly deals lists, is a media asset curator, and photographs cars for various articles and inclusion in KBB’s image library. Her 16+ years at Kelley Blue Book have included roles as a Blue Book copy editor, press vehicle wrangler, and VIN analyst. In her spare time, she can be found tinkering with her 1970 Chevrolet Camaro, trying out new recipes in her cast iron pans, and spoiling her two cats, Grayson and Thaddeus.

Frankie Rogers

Scott Hinderer is an award-winning copy editor. Before joining Cox Automotive in 2022, he built a 15-year career in print and digital journalism. His diverse résumé brings a broad perspective and commitment to accuracy to Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book that enrich the reader experience. Scott has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Salisbury University.

Scott Hinderer

Matt Degen is an author specializing in reviewing cars with the goal of helping you find the best one for your needs. Prior to joining Kelley Blue Book in 2012, he was a writer and editor for over a decade at The Orange County Register newspaper. There he covered automobiles, music and food -- all things Matt is passionate about. He holds degrees in Communications and Culinary Arts. When not evaluating vehicles, he is cooking on his YouTube channel.

Matt Degen

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The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid compact SUV brilliantly blends style, technology, and high fuel efficiency.

<ul>
<li>Audio/HVAC control learning curve</li>
</ul>

If higher fuel efficiency isn’t reason enough to choose the Kia Sportage Hybrid over the standard gas model, perhaps more power will move the needle. And for 2026, the Sportage Hybrid improves there, too. The gas-electric hybrid powertrain with its 1.6-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine sees a power bump to 232 horsepower, five more ponies than the prior year. Compare that to the 187 hp in the gas-only model, and you can see how hybrids make so much sense.
In our testing of this powertrain over the years, we’ve found its smoothness just a step behind its Toyota and Honda rivals, but pleasant and eager enough all the same. And one aspect we like about this Kia hybrid SUV not found on those rivals is its use of a transmission with traditional gears — six, in this case — instead of a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that can tend to drone, especially in hybrid applications.
<h3>Fuel economy</h3>
If gas stations are your kryptonite, the base Sportage Hybrid LX is actually the one that will keep you away from them the most. It’s the star of the efficiency show here with an EPA-estimated 42 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The other trims get 35 mpg. The difference is because the LX is front-wheel drive, while the others have all-wheel drive standard.

Upmarket Design

The Kia Sportage Hybrid was already arguably the most sophisticated-looking mainstream compact SUV, and even that aspect has been upgraded for 2026. Kia’s “opposites united” design language has tweaked the LED “star map” lighting and the Sportage’s can’t-miss amber daytime running lights. We think the whole thing is one striking and cohesive design. And what’s more, it doesn’t crimp on interior space.
We also appreciate that Kia gives the all-wheel-drive models – that is, all trims except the base LX – more ground clearance: 8.3 inches, vs the 7.1 of the front-drive LX.

Tech and more tech: Where some rivals max out at 9-inch screens as standard, the Kia Sportage Hybrid has a 12.3-inch unit. Combined with the 12.3-inch instrument display, it makes a slick setup.
HUD: New to the 2026 model range, the top-line Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige gains a 10-inch head-up display that displays vital information on the windshield so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road.
Wireless connectivity: All 2026 Sportage Hybrid models have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the EX, X-Line, and SX Prestige trims get a wireless charging pad.
Over-the-air updates: You know how your phone and computer can get better over time? Thanks to OTA updates, the Sportage Hybrid can, too. No visit to the dealer is needed.
Highway Driving Assist 2: While all Sportage Hybrid models have adaptive cruise control, this system in the SX Prestige takes semi-autonomous driving to another level thanks to features like automatic lane changes and advanced lane centering.
Ventilated front seats: Another perk of the SX Prestige, your posterior will thank you on a hot summer’s day. This model also has a heated steering wheel and heated rear outboard seats.

Innovative Interior

Our editors have long been impressed with the Kia Sportage Hybrid’s interior, and for 2026, it only improves. All models now come standard with Kia’s innovative 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays, and a 10-inch head-up display is now fitted in the top-line SX Prestige trim. This kind of tech used to be the domain of expensive luxury cars.
Even the base model has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and upholstery ranges from woven cloth to standard or premium SynTex, a synthetic leather.
One aspect we’ve found takes some getting used to is the dual audio/climate controls, which can be toggled to adjust each. Kia promises that switching between the functions is now more natural. We give the Sportage Hybrid kudos for making dual-zone climate control and rear AC vents standard, something human and canine passengers can both appreciate.
One aspect no one can quibble with is space. The Kia Sportage excels here, and that includes the hybrid. Behind the rear seats are 39.5 cubic feet of cargo room, which expands to 73.7 with the seats folded. That first figure is a touch bigger than the CR-V Hybrid’s, and the latter just a few behind. Rear-seat legroom is also impressive at 41.3 inches, a hair more than the Honda’s.

A do-it-all compact SUV makes a lot of sense for a lot of buyers. And almost everyone can appreciate excellent fuel economy. Combine these two things, and you get a result better than PB&amp;J. This is our way of saying the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid is an incredibly sensible, practical, and innovative vehicle. It marries the best traits of the standard gas-powered <a href="https://www.kbb.com/kia/sportage/">Kia Sportage</a> and the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/kia/sportage-plug-in-hybrid/">Sportage Plug-in Hybrid</a> (both reviewed separately) into a model that’s high on value, ease of use, and features. The Kia Sportage lineup as a whole is quite vast, but we think the Sportage Hybrid, in particular, is the Goldilocks of them all.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hybrid/best-hybrid-suvs/">hybrid SUVs</a>, including the Kia Sportage Hybrid.

We admire the overall value of the Kia Sportage Hybrid, when purchased and the potential fuel savings in the years ahead. Consider that the base Sportage Hybrid starts at $31,685. That’s just $1,600 over the base, gas-only version. According to the EPA, the hybrid version can save you roughly $600 a year in gas, which means in less than three years of ownership, the Sportage Hybrid’s small price premium will pay for itself.
If you can afford a bit more, we suggest stepping up to at least the new S trim, one trim up from the base LX. It includes standard all-wheel drive (AWD), blind-spot monitoring, 10-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, 18-inch wheels, and more, all for just $2,300 extra. The caveat is that this trim and the higher ones have decreased fuel economy since they are all-wheel drive rather than the front-wheel drive (FWD) of the base LX model.
Yet even the second-to-the-top Sportage Hybrid X-Line, at $36,885, is below the starting price of the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/honda/cr-v-hybrid/">2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid</a> at $37,025. The all-new <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/rav4/2026/">2026 Toyota RAV4</a> will be hybrid only, but pricing for that model is still to be announced. We expect the Kia’s cousin, the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/tucson-hybrid/">Hyundai Tucson Hybrid</a>, to remain a bit higher, as does the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-50-hybrid/">Mazda CX-50 Hybrid</a>.
Before buying a new Sportage Hybrid compact SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Resale values are about average for the class. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

<ul>
<li>Value</li>
<li>Space</li>
<li>Warranty</li>
<li>Features</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>S, X-Line trims added</li>
<li>Updated styling</li>
<li>Dual 12.3-inch displays</li>
<li>A bit more power</li>
</ul>

Engine & Transmission

The Sportage Hybrid combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors to create an appreciable 232 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. Power goes through a 6-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels (LX) or an all-wheel-drive system that’s standard in the higher trims. The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid can tow up to 2,000 pounds, twice the amount as the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid.
5-Year/60,000-Mile Warranty
Kia offers unbeatable warranties. New-car coverage is five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first (a typical warranty here is three years or 36,000 miles). The powertrain warranty lasts 10 years or 100,000 miles, much better than most competitors. The hybrid battery is also covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles.
Safety Ratings
This generation of Sportage (regardless of drivetrain) has been made a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings/">IIHS</a>), the institute’s second-highest accolade. It has also earned the top 5-Star crash rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features include forward collision warning with pedestrian/cyclist detection and junction turning detection, lane-keeping assistance, driver attention monitor, adaptive cruise control, and more.

What's New for 2026

For 2026, Kia has made a good thing even better, <a href="https://www.kbb.com/car-news/refreshed-2026-kia-sportage-looks-crisp-sharp/">giving its best-selling Sportage model appreciable freshening</a>. In addition to updated exterior design, the 2026 Sportage Hybrid benefits from new dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays, an available head-up display, a more powerful hybrid powertrain, enhanced safety features, and the addition of two new trims: S and X-Line.

2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

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2026Tesla Model S

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The 2026 Tesla Model S gains a few revisions this year, and maximum range increases to 410 miles. Despite its age, the Model S remains a serious contender.

<ul>
<li>Apple CarPlay/Android Auto not supported</li>
<li>Issues with ownership</li>
</ul>

Power, Ride and Handling

The entry-level 2026 Model S has two electric motors generating a hefty 670 hp, and all four wheels receive drive. Electric motors create instant torque, like flipping a switch (who would have thought?). So the Model S can leap off the line as if struck by lightning &#8212; which it is, in a way. The regular Model S is fast and fun, zipping from a standstill to 60 mph in only 3.1 seconds. That’s 0.3 of a second quicker than the 620-hp Lucid Air Touring.
The Plaid (with three motors) is even more extraordinary, developing a mighty 1,020 hp to hit 60 mph in a claimed 1.99 seconds. Back when the Model S was ground-breaking, a gasoline engine with more than 1,000 hp and a zero-to-60-mph time below three seconds would have been the preserve of something like a Bugatti Veyron, costing many times more than the Model S Plaid does now. Then there were the gasoline bills.
That doesn’t exactly make the Model S Plaid a bargain, but it certainly puts automotive power into the hands of more people. The rest of the car is able to keep up. The Model S is controlled and comfortable, with a standard adaptive suspension contributing to easy-going daily driving duties and lively dynamics whenever the driver demands them. We’d describe the Porsche Taycan as sportier, and the Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan as smoother, with the Tesla Model S in between. Smoothness is enhanced this year, however, thanks to suspension improvements.
<h3>Range and Charging</h3>
The maximum range of the most affordable new Model S, the All-Wheel Drive version, is an impressive 410 miles (on 19-inch wheels), up from last year’s 402. A comparable Lucid Air Touring is capable of 406 miles. The high-powered Model S Plaid can still manage a respectable 368 miles, an increase of 20 miles.
At a <a href="http://Tesla Supercharger">Tesla Supercharger</a> or other DC fast-charging station with a 250-kilowatt supply, the Model S can replenish up to 80% of its capacity in as little as 30 minutes. Most rivals also have DC fast charging capabilities with similar times. Remember that the Model S has an above-average range, so its 80% represents more miles than most of the competition. The well-established Tesla Supercharger network also goes a long way in easing range anxiety.

Distinct Exterior

The Model S established Tesla’s design language back in 2012. Its sharp lighting signature and aerodynamic body remain distinct today. The exterior styling is revised for 2026, with minor tweaks and new wheel designs improving aero efficiency, resulting in a new maximum range of 410 miles. The nose also gains a forward-facing camera. Body changes to the high-performance Model S are said to improve stability at faster speeds. The latest paint choice is Frost Blue Metallic, costing $2,500.
We’d be remiss, however, if we didn’t also mention the notorious build quality issues plaguing Tesla models over the years. Owners have reported uneven panel gaps, paint flaws, and loose weather strips while the cars are still relatively new. At the very least, buyers should inspect any Tesla thoroughly before signing for delivery.

Impressive range 
For most of its existence, the Model S has been the benchmark for how many miles it can travel before needing to recharge, otherwise known as range. Many rivals are still falling short, while the Model S is one of the few that can break the 400-mile mark.
Partial self-driving tech 
The standard Autopilot system bundles common features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Enhanced Autopilot adds Navigate on Autopilot, automatic lane changing, automated parking, and Smart Summon. Full Self-Driving Capability (which requires an alert driver, despite the name) adds Autosteer on city streets, plus automatic stop/go at traffic lights and stop signs.
Tesla Superchargers 
The company owns a national network of fast-charging stations, so road trips are a distinct possibility. Tesla vehicles can also be replenished by other chargers, using an adaptor.
Large screen 
The centerpiece of the Model S interior is the 17-inch touchscreen. It controls almost every function of the car and can even do streaming and gaming, so the time will fly by while charging.
Over-the-air updates 
Improvements in range and power, plus things like map updates, are all possible after the Model S has been purchased.
Sentry Mode 
An active camera system can send alerts to an owner’s smartphone if their parked Model S senses someone loitering too close, for example.

Sparse Interior

The dashboard of the Model S is more of a glorified infotainment touchscreen mounting bracket than any source of design flair. But at least the driver has a dedicated instrument cluster. The touchscreen itself is large (17 inches on the diagonal), with crisp graphics and fast responses — it’s a video gamer’s delight for when there’s some time to kill while recharging. Tesla allows Netflix and Hulu streaming as well.
A yoke-style steering wheel is standard, which is frankly a bit awkward (although it got the thumbs-up in a couple of our owner reviews). We recommend ordering the conventional round alternative at no extra cost.
At this price level, we feel the cabin of the Model S should be plusher than it is, with a higher level of fit and finish. After all, it’s competing with Mercedes-Benz and Audi, masters of luxury. The good news this year is that Tesla has added extra sound insulation and improved the car’s Active Noise Cancellation.
Occupant space is mostly fine, although 35.5 inches of rear legroom is not much more than the compact Model 3. The Model S is quite wide, though, so there’s plenty of leeway for hips and shoulders.
The body’s hatchback design provides plenty of luggage space: 25 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 61.4 cubic feet when folded flat. We also appreciate the wide aperture that helps to make easy work of loading and unloading. Beneath the hood is another 3.1 cubic feet of storage space.

The fact that the Model S launched in 2012 and it’s still worth considering today is some kind of testament to how ahead of the curve this electric car has been. Most of our owner reviews have only good things to say, despite some well-known issues with build quality and servicing. These positive aspects include range, speed, hatchback practicality, and the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/tesla/">Tesla</a> Supercharger network.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/electric-car/best-luxury-electric-cars/">luxury electric cars</a>, including the Tesla Model S.

The 2026 Tesla Model S has a starting sticker price of $86,630, with the range-topping Model S Plaid kicking off at $101,630.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Model S All-Wheel Drive</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$86,630</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Model S Plaid</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$101,630</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

Unless the intention is to go really, really fast, we recommend the more affordable and popular entry-level version with all-wheel drive (AWD). It’s still speedy enough for most people and has the best range.
The Touring version is the first in the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/lucid/air/">Lucid Air</a> sedan lineup to have all-wheel drive, almost matching its Model S counterpart in range (406 miles) while undercutting its price. The breathtakingly quick Lucid Air Sapphire competes performance-wise with the Plaid, but costs more than twice as much. We also suggest looking at offerings from more established marques, like the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/audi/a6-sportback-e-tron/">Audi A6 Sportback e-tron</a>, <a href="https://www.kbb.com/bmw/i5/">BMW i5</a>, <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/mercedes-eq-eqe/">Mercedes-Benz EQE</a> sedan — all beginning slightly below the Model S. The <a href="https://www.kbb.com/genesis/electrified-g80/">Genesis Electrified G80</a> is in that same bracket.
Before buying a new Model S electric car, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Also, keep a watchful eye on resale values, as they may not be as strong as they once were. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

<ul>
<li>Great range</li>
<li>Plenty of power</li>
<li>Practical hatchback</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>Increase in ranges</li>
<li>Minor styling revisions</li>
<li>Updated suspension and acoustic treatment</li>
</ul>

Battery and Efficiency

Tesla informs owners that the best way to preserve battery life is to keep the car plugged in when not in use. Even if the owner doesn’t plan to drive it for a while (such as when away on vacation). That’s because it will periodically perform systems checks.
<h3>4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
Tesla’s basic new-car warranty lasts four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This is a common arrangement among luxury cars. The batteries and drive units have warranties of eight years or 120,000 miles.
Based on what we read and hear from owners, experiences with the reliability and maintenance costs of Tesla models have been mixed. Some have reported long wait times at service centers and poor parts availability. If you live in an area with many Tesla EVs on the road but only a few service centers, there could be some frustrations when your Model S needs attention.
<h3>Safety Ratings</h3>
The Tesla Model S hasn’t been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NHTSA</a>) since 2016, but it received a maximum 5-Star overall rating back then. More recent testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IIHS</a>) earned the top score of Good in every crashworthiness category except the new small overlap front impact scenario, where the Model S received an Acceptable rating.

Mild styling revisions make the 2026 Model S sleeker than before, while adding a new forward-facing camera in the nose. Maximum range increases by eight miles to 410, so this is the Tesla with the longest range yet. The Plaid is now rated at 368 miles. The suspension has been improved for ride quality, the cabin is quieter, and Frost Blue Metallic joins the palette of paint choices. The Plaid version’s top speed drops from 200 mph to 149 mph.

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