Tesla Model S 70

Overview

The 2016 Tesla Model S 70 was the entry-level ticket to Tesla's game-changing electric liftback, offering a taste of that EV magic without the price tag of its bigger-batteried brothers. Though discontinued, it's a compelling used buy, with a listed price around $10,997. This rear-wheel-drive variant provided a pure, classic EV driving experience with access to Tesla's impressive Supercharger network and that iconic minimalist interior. It was all about making premium electric motoring a bit more accessible, blending performance with practicality and pioneering tech that still feels fresh today.

What's New for 2016?

For 2016, the Model S 70, which carried over from 2015, saw the significant mid-year Model S "facelift" in April. This meant some 2016 Model S 70s sported the original "nosecone" front end, while later versions got the sleeker, moustache-free fascia aligning with the Model X and future Model 3. This refresh also brought standard LED headlights and the option for a HEPA air filtration system with "Bioweapon Defense Mode." Autopilot (AP1) capabilities continued to be a sought-after option, enhancing its tech-forward appeal before the 70 trim was phased out later in the year.

Design & Exterior

The 2016 Model S 70 cuts a seriously sleek figure, a five-door liftback that still turns heads. Early 2016 models had the distinctive black "nosecone," while those produced after April 2016 got the updated, cleaner front end. It's a big car, measuring 195.7 inches long, 77.3 inches wide (no mirrors), and 56.9 inches tall, giving it real presence. Features like flush, pop-out door handles and an optional panoramic glass roof amplified its futuristic vibe, with standard 19-inch wheels keeping things stylish and efficient for this base RWD model.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Model S 70 and you're greeted by that signature Tesla minimalism, dominated by a massive 17-inch touchscreen controlling almost everything. Cabin materials are decent, though perhaps not ultra-luxe. Passenger space is generous for five, with an option for two small, rear-facing child seats bumping capacity to seven. You get a whopping 26.3 cubic feet of trunk space, expanding to 58.1 cubic feet with seats down, plus a handy 2.1 cubic foot frunk. Tesla's own infotainment system handles navigation and media; no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto here, though.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Model S 70 RWD delivers that instant electric punch, zipping from 0-60 mph in a brisk 5.5 seconds. Its single rear Induction Motor (IM) churns out 235 kW (around 315 hp) and 325 lb-ft of torque, making for effortlessly smooth and quiet acceleration up to its 140 mph top speed. Being rear-wheel drive, it offers a purer, more engaging driving feel than its AWD siblings. The ride is generally composed, especially on the standard 19-inch wheels, and the strong regenerative braking allows for easy one-pedal driving. It’s a genuinely fun steer!

Range, Battery & Charging

Under the floor, the Model S 70 packs a 66.5 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range estimate of around 209 miles – decent for daily duties and some road trips. Its efficiency is rated at 3.14 mi/kWh. At home, the standard 10 kW on-board AC charger can top it up in about 7-8 hours using the Tesla (NACS) port. For quicker top-ups, it can slurp down DC fast charging at up to 120 kW from a Tesla Supercharger, getting you back on the road swiftly.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla has always put a big emphasis on safety, and the Model S 70 proudly wears a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. While today's Autopilot is far more advanced, the 2016 model offered an earlier version (AP1) as an option. This included features like adaptive cruise control, Autosteer (lane keeping), and auto park. Standard safety kit included essentials like multiple airbags, stability control, and traction control, with collision avoidance tech often bundled with the optional Autopilot package. It was ahead of its time for sure.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the 2016 Model S 70 came with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty. Crucially, the battery and drive unit were covered for a more generous 8 years with unlimited miles, which is great peace of mind for used buyers, though this coverage period is now nearing its end for many 2016 models. Tesla didn't offer complimentary scheduled maintenance like some rivals. However, EV maintenance is generally lower, with fewer moving parts meaning fewer trips to the shop for regular upkeep, focusing mainly on tires, brakes, and cabin air filters.