Tesla Model S 75

Overview

The 2017 Tesla Model S 75 was the slick, rear-wheel-drive entry point to Tesla’s groundbreaking electric liftback lineup. Packing a 75 kWh battery, it offered a taste of that signature Tesla instant torque and cutting-edge tech without stretching to the pricier, longer-range variants. While new prices are history, you might snag one on the used market for around $12,800. It’s a compelling package for anyone eyeing a stylish EV that carved its own path in the automotive world, blending luxury with impressive electric performance and that massive central screen that wowed everyone.

What's New for 2017?

For 2017, the Model S 75 sported the refreshed, cleaner front-end design introduced mid-2016, ditching the old black "nose cone." This year firmed up the 75 kWh battery pack as a key offering, providing a solid step up in range from earlier base models. Tesla was also rolling out its upgraded Autopilot hardware (HW2.0, then HW2.5) around this time, meaning 2017 models could potentially be equipped with more advanced driver-assist capabilities, if optioned. Standard equipment levels also saw some tweaks, making the S an even more refined proposition.

Design & Exterior

The 2017 Model S 75 is a real head-turner with its super-sleek, aerodynamic liftback shape. That post-facelift front end looks properly modern, complemented by signature LED lighting and those cool flush door handles that pop out to greet you. It’s a big car, measuring 195.7 inches long, 77.3 inches wide (mirrors tucked), and a low-slung 56.9 inches tall, giving it an athletic stance. The 75 trim typically rolled on stylish, often aero-focused, alloy wheels, helping it slip through the air efficiently and look good doing it.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Model S 75 and you’re greeted by Tesla’s famously minimalist cabin, dominated by that massive 17-inch central touchscreen – a real showstopper! Material quality feels premium, and there's plenty of room for five adults. Some models even feature optional rear-facing child seats, bumping capacity to seven. Luggage space is epic: 26.3 cubic feet in the main trunk, expanding to a van-like 58.1 cubic feet with seats down, plus a handy 2.1 cubic foot frunk up front for your charging cables or a weekend bag.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Model S 75, with its single rear AC induction motor, delivers that addictive Tesla punch! We're talking 0-60 mph in a brisk 5.5 seconds, thanks to 235 kW (around 315 hp) and 325 lb-ft of instant torque driving the rear wheels – proper fun. It’s not just quick; it’s incredibly smooth and quiet. The ride is generally comfortable, soaking up bumps well, and the responsive steering makes it feel agile for a big car. Regenerative braking is strong, allowing for efficient one-pedal driving once you get the hang of it.

Range, Battery & Charging

Under the floor, the Model S 75 packs a 72.5 kWh usable battery, good for a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 230 miles – plenty for most daily drives and even some road trips. It’s pretty efficient too, at 3.17 mi/kWh. For charging, the standard 11.5 kW on-board AC charger can top it up fully in about 6-7 hours at home using its Tesla (NACS) port. Hit a Tesla Supercharger, and it can gulp down DC juice at up to 120 kW, getting you back on the road quickly.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla has always banged the drum about safety, and the Model S 75 lived up to it, nabbing a top 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard kit included essentials like automatic emergency braking and collision warnings. The real party piece was the available Autopilot system, offering advanced adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist – though its full capabilities depended on the specific hardware (HW2.0/HW2.5) and software package optioned at the time. Blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors were also typically part of the mix, boosting driver confidence.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the 2017 Model S 75 typically 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 the mileage cap for the 75 kWh battery often set at 125,000 miles. Being an EV, routine maintenance is minimal – no oil changes here! Say goodbye to frequent dealer visits. While generally reliable, early Model S examples had some known quirks, but the powertrain itself is typically robust. Always check the specific vehicle's history for peace of mind.