Tesla Model S Long Range Plus

Overview

The 2021 Tesla Model S Long Range Plus continued to be a game-changer in the EV world, offering a stunning blend of range, tech, and blistering pace. This particular trim solidified the Model S's reputation as the electric liftback to beat, packing all-wheel drive and Tesla’s cutting-edge features. It set a high bar for luxury electric motoring, making long-distance EV travel a breeze. Used examples, like this 2021 model, can be found with an estimated price around $21,999, though market conditions heavily influence actual figures. It’s a proper statement piece on wheels!

What's New for 2021?

For 2021, the Model S Long Range Plus carried over its impressive package from its late 2020 introduction, solidifying its status as the range king before the major 'Palladium' refresh later that year. Key for this trim was its enhanced battery efficiency and that headline-grabbing range figure, pushing past the 400-mile EPA mark (though our real-world estimate is a still-mighty 363 miles). It benefited from continuous over-the-air software updates, keeping the tech fresh, and subtle refinements to suspension and build that Tesla often rolls out. It was the pinnacle of the pre-refresh S!

Design & Exterior

The 2021 Model S Long Range Plus rocks that iconic, slippery silhouette that still turns heads. It’s a masterclass in minimalist EV design, from its flush door handles to the sleek LED lighting. This liftback measures a commanding 195.7 inches long, 77.3 inches wide (mirrors aside), and a low-slung 56.9 inches tall. The Long Range Plus typically sported 19-inch 'Tempest' aero wheels, optimizing that all-important efficiency, all wrapped in a package that screams futuristic luxury. It’s less shouty, more stealthy speed.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Long Range Plus boasts Tesla’s signature minimalist cabin, dominated by that massive central touchscreen controlling nearly everything. Material quality is good, with a spacious feel for five occupants. Luggage? No problem! You get a generous 26.3 cubic feet in the main trunk, expanding to a massive 58.1 cubic feet with the seats down, plus a handy 2.1 cubic feet frunk up front. Tech-wise, it's packed with Tesla’s own slick infotainment, navigation, and premium sound, though no direct Apple CarPlay or Android Auto here, relying on Bluetooth and built-in apps.

Performance & Driving Experience

Stomp the pedal in the Long Range Plus and you’ll hit 60 mph in a blistering 3.7 seconds, thanks to its dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors delivering a combined 398 kW (around 534 hp) and a hefty 557 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. This thing shifts! The AWD system provides immense grip, while the adaptive air suspension generally offers a comfy, composed ride, though it can feel a tad firm over broken pavement. One-pedal driving via strong regenerative braking is super intuitive, making for smooth progress once you’re used to it.

Range, Battery & Charging

Range anxiety? Not here! The Long Range Plus packs a substantial 98 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of 363 miles. It sips juice at an impressive 3.7 mi/kWh. At home, its 11.5 kW on-board charger can top it up overnight in about 8-9 hours using its Tesla (NACS) charge port. On the road, hit a Tesla Supercharger and you can gulp down electrons at up to 250 kW, adding significant range in under 30 minutes. This setup makes long hauls genuinely easy peasy.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is paramount in the Model S, reflected in its 5-star NHTSA overall rating. The Long Range Plus comes standard with Tesla's Autopilot, bundling features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which are brilliant for highway munching. Blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking are also part of the package. For those wanting the absolute cutting edge, the optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability package could be added, promising more advanced autonomous features over time via software updates, though always requiring driver supervision.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla backs the Model S Long Range Plus with a solid warranty. You typically get a basic vehicle warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles. Crucially, the battery and drive unit are covered for a lengthy 8 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, with a guarantee of at least 70% battery retention. Tesla doesn't follow traditional maintenance schedules, relying on 'as-needed' service alerts. While early Model S had some teething issues, reliability for these later models is generally strong, offering peace of mind for this high-tech machine.