Used 2014 Tesla Model S

To most consumers, the electric car is a novelty. A compact, limited-range vehicle like the Nissan Leaf whose owners can also afford to have a second, gasoline-powered car in the garage. Tesla understands public fears about long charging times and of being stranded miles from an electric socket, so they designed the Model S to be a different kind of electric car. The new platform allows for maximized efficiency, five passengers, lots of cargo, high performance, and an extended driving range. While charging time is still an issue, different battery pack options that allow for rapid charging coupled with the company’s aggressive move to begin installing a network of Superchargers should go a long way to improving confidence in the 2014 Model S.

When you think electric car, the Tesla Model S isn’t what generally comes to mind. Tesla is working to change the electric’s commuter car image, starting with a 0-to-60-mph run in less than six seconds – and that’s with the slowest 60-kWh trim. Move up to the 85-kWh Performance model and that time drops to a scathing 4.4 seconds. With the battery packs in the floor and no heavy combustion engine up front, the Model S retains a low center of gravity that, coupled with its quick steering ratio, permits extreme stability in turns with very little lean. On the freeway, the Tesla Model S moves effortlessly and has abundant power to overtake slower traffic. The omission of engine growl inside the passenger compartment takes some getting used to, but the silence is quickly welcomed, especially when making phone calls using the Bluetooth hands-free system.

Absent a gasoline engine, the Tesla Model S boasts a staggering amount of cargo and passenger space. In addition to a sizable rear cargo area, the Model S’s hood hides a supplemental front trunk, or “frunk” as Tesla calls it. Passenger accommodations are ample in the front seat, becoming progressively tighter as you move rearward. Headroom in the second row can be tight for taller passengers, and the optional rear-facing jump seats are sized for children only. Though some areas could be improved, material quality is generally good throughout the simple modern cabin.

Tesla calls the 2014 Model S a sedan, but it’s really more of a hatchback, marked by a wide rear hatch that leads to a spacious cargo area. However it’s classified, we think that Tesla has crafted a handsome, restrained shape made all the more appealing by its impressively slick 0.24 drag co-efficient. Adding to the wind-cheating design are retractable door handles that automatically emerge when the key is nearby. Ride quality is generally good, even with the optional 21-inch performance tire and wheel package, but if ride comfort were our top priority we’d probably stick with the standard 19-inch wheels.

17-INCH INFOTAINMENT SCREEN
The centerpiece of the Model S’ interior is a massive 17-inch touch screen taking up the entire center stack. Easily configurable, this clear, sharp screen operates similarly to a tablet computer, reacting to finger taps, pinch and drag movements, and cursor control. Next to the Tesla’s infotainment screen, everything else feels as antiquated as a rotary phone.

REAR-FACING JUMP SEATS
The 5-passenger Model S can be outfitted with a rear-facing jump seat, allowing two more to come along for the ride. Like the station wagons of yesteryear, these rear-facing seats are best appreciated by kids. Unlike those old wagons, however, the Model S’ seats include 5-point seatbelts for improved safety.

Standard Model S features include 12-way-adjustable heated front seats, cloth/synthetic-leather upholstery, eight airbags, a 7-speaker 200-watt audio system that lacks a CD player but includes two USB inputs, and a 17-inch screen handling climate, entertainment and vehicle controls. Interestingly, the Model S also lacks any sort of “ignition” or start button – just buckle up with the key in your pocket, put your foot on the brake, pull the gear selector into drive, and the car is ready to go. Black or white exterior paint is offered free of charge but for any other color expect to pay extra.

If driving a vision of the future isn’t interesting enough, consider indulging in options like a panoramic glass roof (operated by a swipe of the 17-inch touch screen), Nappa leather, a 580-watt 12-speaker premium audio system, or a Tech Package that bundles features like HID headlights, navigation, a HD backup camera and a power rear liftgate. An active air suspension is offered as well, as is a Subzero package that adds a heated rear seat, heated washer nozzles and a windshield-wiper de-icer. Lastly, an optional wall connector allows for charging at home while a second on-vehicle charger helps shorten recharge times.

The 2014 Model S lineup is defined by a battery hierarchy. The 60-kWh, 85-kWh and 85-kWh Performance models each offer increasing levels of driving range, power and performance. All versions feature rear-wheel drive and an 8-year battery warranty with varying mileage limitations. Tesla is also in the process of constructing a network of “Superchargers” strategically placed along heavily trafficked corridors (such as from L.A. to Las Vegas), giving owners of 85-kWh and properly equipped 60-kWh Model S’s the ability to quickly replenish their batteries to 50-percent charge in 30 minutes. By exponentially speeding recharge times Tesla’s Supercharging network hopes to make pure-electric long-distance travel a reality.

60-kWh
302 horsepower @ 5,000-8,000 rpm
317 lb-ft of torque @ 0-5,000 rpm
Range 230 miles @ 55 mph

85-kWh
362 horsepower @ 6,000-9,500 rpm
325 lb-ft of torque @ 0-5,800 rpm
Range 300 miles @ 55 mph

85-kWh Performance
416 horsepower @ 5,000-8,600 rpm
443 lb-ft of torque @ 05,100 rpm
Range 300 miles @ 55 mph