Tesla Model S 70

Overview

The 2016 Tesla Model S 70 was the cool cat entry-point to Tesla's groundbreaking luxury liftback lineup. Even as the base rear-wheel-drive model, it packed that signature Tesla punch with instant torque and a tech-forward cabin. It offered a slice of the electric revolution, blending daily usability with that undeniable Tesla allure. While discontinued, you can snag one on the used market, with the provided data showing an estimated price around $14,895. It was a genuine game-changer, proving EVs could be both desirable and practical.

What's New for 2016?

For 2016, the Model S got a slick facelift, ditching the original black "nose cone" for a sleeker front-end, aligning it with the Model X. This refresh also brought standard LED headlights and the option for a seriously cool HEPA air filtration system, dubbed "Bioweapon Defense Mode" – talk about breathing easy! The Model S 70, with its rear-wheel drive setup, was a key part of this updated lineup, offering a more accessible way into the Tesla ownership experience with all the fresh design cues.

Design & Exterior

The 2016 Model S 70 rocks that iconic, slippery liftback silhouette that still turns heads. The mid-2016 refresh gave it a cleaner, more modern front fascia, doing away with the old nose cone. Standard features like flush door handles and stylish alloy wheels complete the premium look. Dimension-wise, it stretches out to 195.7 inches in length, sits 77.3 inches wide (mirrors excluded), and stands 56.9 inches tall, giving it a commanding yet graceful presence on the road.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Model S 70, and you're greeted by a minimalist cabin dominated by a massive 17-inch touchscreen – the command center for almost everything! Passenger space is generous, with seating for "5, 7" as per the provided data, hinting at the optional rear-facing child seats. For your gear, there's a hefty 26.3 cubic feet of trunk space, expanding to 58.1 cubic feet with seats down, plus a handy 2.1 cubic foot frunk upfront. Tech-wise, it’s all Tesla’s own system; no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto here.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Model S 70 might be an older bird, but it still scoots! With its rear-wheel-drive setup powered by a single Induction Motor (IM), it delivers 235 kW and 325 lb-ft of instant torque. This translates to a brisk 0-60 mph sprint in just 5.5 seconds, according to the provided specifications. Expect that signature smooth, silent, and surprisingly agile Tesla driving experience, with confident handling for a big car. Regenerative braking is strong, allowing for plenty of one-pedal driving. Towing capacity is not specified for this trim.

Range, Battery & Charging

Juice for the Model S 70 comes from a 69 kWh usable battery pack. Green Cars Compare's calculated 'real-world' range estimate is 212 miles, with an efficiency of 3.07 mi/kWh, as per the provided data. For charging, it uses the Tesla (NACS) port. At home, the standard 11.5 kW on-board AC charger can top it up in around 6-7 hours. On the road, it can accept DC fast charging at up to 120 kW via Tesla's Supercharger network, getting you back on your journey quicker.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety was a big deal for Tesla, and the 2016 Model S 70 scored a top-notch 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, as listed in the provided data. All 2016 Model S vehicles came equipped with hardware for Tesla's Autopilot system. Standard features typically included forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional Autopilot convenience features, often activated via software, could add Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer (lane keeping), making highway cruising a breeze. Always check what's enabled on a used model!

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the Model S 70 typically came with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty. Crucially, the battery and drive unit were often covered for 8 years with unlimited or high mileage (always verify terms for a specific used vehicle). Maintenance is generally simpler than gas cars – no oil changes here! Reliability was generally good for the powertrain, though like any car, it's wise to check a used model’s history. Tesla's over-the-air updates also kept the software fresh, a neat perk.