Tesla Model S Standard Range

Overview

The 2020 Tesla Model S Standard Range was a short-lived, sharper-priced entry into Tesla's flagship sedan lineup, hitting the US market briefly. It dished out the core Model S experience – sleek looks, zippy performance, and cutting-edge tech – but with a smaller battery pack making it more accessible, especially now on the used market where it can be found for around $24,695. This trim aimed to snag buyers wanting that S-Class of EVs vibe without the top-tier price, slotting neatly between the Model 3 and the pricier Long Range S variants.

What's New for 2020?

For 2020, the Model S Standard Range itself was still a relatively fresh face, having debuted in 2019 before its quick discontinuation. It benefited from the significant 'Raven' updates rolled out across the Model S line, meaning it packed an advanced adaptive air suspension for a cushier ride and improved handling, plus a more efficient permanent magnet synchronous front motor paired with an induction rear motor. This specific trim effectively represented Tesla’s move to offer a more budget-friendly version of its premium sedan, even if its tenure was brief in the US.

Design & Exterior

The 2020 Model S Standard Range flaunted that timeless, slippery liftback silhouette that still makes car enthusiasts drool. Its clean lines, pop-out door handles, and expansive panoramic glass roof screamed futuristic cool. This trim typically rolled on 19-inch ‘Tempest’ aero wheels, looking sharp. Dimensionally, it’s a big beast at 195.7 inches long, 77.3 inches wide (mirrors tucked), and 56.9 inches tall, giving it a commanding yet surprisingly agile stance on the road. It’s a proper head-turner, no doubt!

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the 2020 Model S Standard Range, and you’re greeted by a minimalist, tech-laden cabin dominated by that massive 17-inch central touchscreen – your command center for pretty much everything. Vegan leather and quality materials gave it a premium, airy vibe. Five adults fit comfortably. Cargo? It’s cavernous! You get 26.3 cubic feet in the trunk, a massive 58.1 with seats down, plus a nifty 2.1 cubic feet in the frunk. Tesla’s own slick infotainment was standard; no CarPlay or Android Auto, but it’s super responsive.

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The 2020 Model S Standard Range, with its dual-motor All-Wheel Drive, was no slouch. It rocketed from 0-60 mph in a mere 4.0 seconds – proper sports car territory! This thrust came from its potent 398 kW (around 534 hp) electric powertrain, churning out 557 lb-ft of instant torque from its PMSM front and IM rear motors. The 'Raven' adaptive suspension delivered a magic carpet ride that could also firm up for spirited cornering. Strong, smooth regenerative braking helped recapture energy, making one-pedal driving a joy.

Range, Battery & Charging

The Model S Standard Range rocked a 72.5 kWh usable battery, good for a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of 257 miles – plenty for most US commutes and some weekend jaunts. It sipped juice at around 3.54 mi/kWh. For charging, it used Tesla’s NACS port. At home, the 11.5 kW AC charger meant a full top-up overnight (around 6-7 hours). On a DC fast charger, it could gulp down electrons at up to 100 kW, getting you back on the road with a decent charge in about 30-40 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety? Tesla’s got you covered. The 2020 Model S aced its exams, bagging a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard Autopilot was your co-pilot, bringing adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist for stress-free highway miles. Features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking were also standard. For those wanting the full tech wizardry, Navigate on Autopilot and the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package were available as optional upgrades, though always remember to keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road!

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla's warranty for the 2020 Model S Standard Range typically offered a 4-year/50,000-mile basic vehicle limited warranty. The all-important battery and drive unit got a longer 8-year/120,000-mile cover, with a minimum 70% battery retention guarantee. Unlike some old-school brands, Tesla didn’t usually throw in free scheduled maintenance, but these electric steeds generally need less pampering than gas guzzlers anyway. Reliability was decent, though pioneering tech can sometimes have its quirks. For a used buy, check that battery health!