2020 Model S
Elon Musk may say some crazy things, but one thing is certain: his electric vehicles have transformed the world. The Model S was the first long-range, much wanted electric vehicle when it debuted in 2012, and mainstream automakers have been trying to catch up ever since. The Model S is still impressive—the Long Range Plus edition now has an EPA-estimated range of 402 miles—but despite its emphasis on autonomous technology, over-the-air updates, and Easter eggs, Tesla's interiors and build quality occasionally fall short of expectations. Better-established luxury automakers are finally getting in on the EV game—Porsche's Taycan is aimed directly at the Model S, for example—and Tesla will need all its Silicon Valley pivot-power to stay ahead of the pack.
Tesla maintains it doesn't believe in model years, but the tenth digit of its vehicle identification numbers (VINs) proves otherwise. Tesla debuted a Standard Range Model S in mid-2019, but it was cancelled just weeks later, leaving the 2020 Model S with only a Long Range Plus model with 402 miles of range, which was achieved after Tesla made careful changes. It features a 348-mile EPA-estimated range and a 2.4-second zero-to-60-mph speed in Performance trim. This year, the car's front drive unit and motor have been changed, and the S's air suspension has been upgraded to be adaptable, allowing for a smoother ride on the highway and a firmer ride around turns.
The Model S delivers full-time all-wheel drive regardless of the version you choose, with an electric motor dedicated to each of the front and rear axles. The various variants' acceleration performance varies from excellent to fierce. Although they haven't yet evaluated the 2020 Model S Long Range Plus, our 2018 100D test vehicle rocketed from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and provided hours of entertainment thanks to its rapid power delivery. If that's not enough, the Model S Performance can accelerate to 60 mph in a supercar-like 2.4 seconds when employing its Cheetah launch mode, which they tested. The Model S is a nimble sports sedan with precise driving and well-controlled body movements. Drivers can choose between heavy and mild steering effort in two separate settings, although neither of them provides greater feedback from the road ahead. The Model S has good ride comfort, and it gives off a sturdy sensation on the road that nicely complements its peacefulness when driving.
Price: $70,620
