Tesla Model S Performance

Overview

The 2021 Tesla Model S Performance was the king of grunt before the Plaid arrived, a luxurious electric liftback blending warp-speed acceleration with serious range. Its dual-motor AWD and cutting-edge tech made it a status symbol and an EV benchmark. Though discontinued after 2021, it's a hot ticket on the used market, with estimated prices around $30,883 in the US. If you wanted near-supercar pace with room for the family and a dose of Silicon Valley cool, this was your chariot.

What's New for 2021?

For its 2021 swan song, the Model S Performance didn't get a massive shake-up, as Tesla was prepping the bonkers Plaid. It carried over its potent powertrain and refined adaptive air suspension from the previous year. Key changes were subtle, mostly continuous over-the-air software enhancements for the infotainment and Autopilot systems. This model year essentially marked the end of the "Performance" badge for the S, making it a unique find, representing the peak of that particular iteration before the Plaid era.

Design & Exterior

The 2021 Model S Performance still looks sharp with its slippery, aerodynamic liftback design – a hallmark of Tesla styling. It’s a big car, stretching 195.7 inches long, 77.3 inches wide (mirrors folded), and 56.9 inches tall. Flush door handles and a minimalist grille contribute to its futuristic vibe. The Performance trim often came with distinct alloy wheels and sometimes a subtle carbon fiber spoiler, hinting at the beast within without being too shouty. It’s a design that’s aged gracefully.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Model S Performance, and you’re greeted by a minimalist, tech-forward cabin dominated by a huge central touchscreen. This screen controls almost everything; forget Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Tesla’s proprietary system is king here. With seating for five, passenger space is ample. Cargo? You’ve got a generous 26.3 cubic feet in the trunk, expanding to a cavernous 58.1 cubic feet with seats folded, plus a handy 2.1 cubic foot frunk up front – perfect for stashing charging cables.

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on! The Model S Performance delivers a gut-punching 0-60 mph in a mere 2.3 seconds. This rocket ship is powered by dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (one front, one rear) generating a colossal 580 kW (around 778 hp) and 841 lb-ft of torque, all channeled through an all-wheel-drive system. Beyond straight-line heroics, it handles with surprising agility for its size, aided by adaptive air suspension. Strong regenerative braking allows for easy one-pedal driving, making it a thrill in every scenario.

Range, Battery & Charging

Underneath, the Model S Performance boasts a substantial 98 kWh usable battery. Green Cars Compare estimates its real-world range at a very respectable 353 miles, with an efficiency of 3.6 mi/kWh. For home charging, the standard 11.5 kW on-board AC charger will comfortably refill it overnight. When you’re out and about, it uses the Tesla (NACS) port and can slurp electricity at up to 250 kW from a Supercharger, meaning quick top-ups on road trips. This model operates on a 400V architecture.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla prioritizes safety, and the Model S Performance backs this up with a 5-star NHTSA overall rating. Standard Autopilot brings features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, taking the stress out of long drives. Buyers could also opt for the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package, which added capabilities like auto lane changes and Navigate on Autopilot, though always requiring driver attention. Essential features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning are, of course, included to keep you safe.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla’s new vehicle warranty for the Model S typically covered 4 years or 50,000 miles. More importantly for an EV, the battery and drive unit were backed for 8 years or 150,000 miles (whichever came first for this era), guarding against major issues and significant capacity loss. Unlike some brands, Tesla doesn’t usually throw in complimentary scheduled maintenance, partly because EVs need less of it. Over-the-air updates often address software issues, contributing to the ownership experience.