Tesla Model S 75

Overview

The 2017 Tesla Model S 75 was a cracking entry point into Tesla's flagship liftback family, blending sleek looks with impressive electric performance. Discontinued but still a desirable used buy, it offered a taste of the future with Tesla's signature tech and that iconic silhouette. Positioned as a more accessible rear-wheel-drive option within the Model S lineup, it packed a decent punch without the price tag of its larger-batteried siblings. In the European pre-owned market, you might find one around the €19,990 mark, making it a tempting proposition for EV enthusiasts.

What's New for 2017?

For 2017, the Model S 75 sported the refreshed front-end styling, ditching the old "nose cone" for a cleaner, more modern look that became standard in mid-2016. This update also brought along the option for the brilliant HEPA air filtration system with "Bioweapon Defense Mode." The "75" itself signified a slight battery bump from the previous 70 kWh pack, squeezing out a bit more range. Later 2017 models also began incorporating Tesla's updated Autopilot hardware (HW2.5), enhancing its driver-assist capabilities for those equipped with the optional software.

Design & Exterior

This electric stunner rocks a super-slippery, aerodynamic liftback design that still turns heads. The 2017 refresh gave it a sleeker front fascia, and those cool flush door handles add to its futuristic vibe. Riding typically on 19-inch alloy wheels, its dimensions are substantial: 4970 mm in length, a broad 1964 mm in width (mirrors excluded), and a low-slung height of 1445 mm. It’s a big, beautiful machine that makes a statement without shouting, embodying Tesla's minimalist yet impactful design language, perfect for cruising European city streets or autobahns.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Model S 75 is all about that massive central touchscreen, dominating a minimalist dashboard. Cabin materials are good, though perhaps not quite up to some premium German rivals of the era. Passenger space is generous, especially with the flat floor, and this trim could even be optioned with a quirky rear-facing third row for a "5, 7" seat layout! Cargo is king here: a massive 745 litres in the boot, expanding to a van-like 1645 litres with seats down, plus a handy 60-litre frunk. No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, just Tesla’s own slick system.

Performance & Driving Experience

The rear-wheel-drive Model S 75 is properly quick, zipping from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 5.8 seconds thanks to its single induction motor (IM) churning out 235 kW (around 320 horsepower) and a meaty 440 Nm of instant torque. It’s not just about straight-line speed; the standard air suspension provides a generally plush ride, though it can feel a tad firm over broken surfaces. Steering is direct, and the low centre of gravity makes it feel planted. Regenerative braking is strong, allowing for plenty of one-pedal driving action.

Range, Battery & Charging

Packing a 72.5 kWh usable battery, Green Cars Compare calculates a real-world range of around 370 km for the Model S 75, which is pretty decent for daily duties and some longer jaunts. Efficiency is rated at a respectable 5.1 km/kWh. For charging, its standard 16.5 kW on-board AC charger can juice it up fully in roughly 4.5 hours at home or a public Type 2 (Mennekes) station. On the DC fast charging front, it can gulp down electrons at up to 120 kW via Tesla's Supercharger network (using a Type 2 connector in Europe), getting you back on the road sharpish.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a big tick for the Model S 75, boasting a stellar 5-star rating from Euro NCAP and a 5-star rating from NHTSA. Standard kit included autonomous emergency braking and collision avoidance. Most 2017 models came with the hardware for Tesla's Autopilot system; activating features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and auto lane change often required purchasing the Enhanced Autopilot software package. This made it one of the most advanced cars on the road for semi-autonomous driving capabilities at the time.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Typically, Tesla offered a 4-year/80,000 km basic vehicle warranty for the Model S. The crucial battery and drive unit warranty was more generous, usually covering 8 years with unlimited kilometres for the 75 kWh pack, guaranteeing against major capacity loss. Scheduled maintenance is minimal compared to combustion cars, mostly revolving around tyre rotation, brake fluid checks, and air filter replacements. While generally reliable, some early Model S components had known issues, but many have been addressed through service or recalls over the years.