Tesla Model S 85D

Overview

The 2016 Tesla Model S 85D was a game-changing electric liftback, blending impressive range, stonking dual-motor all-wheel-drive performance, and cutting-edge tech. As a premium offering, it helped cement Tesla's place in the luxury EV segment. Highlights for the 85D include its practical liftback design, expansive interior, and access to Tesla's Supercharger network. Now discontinued, it’s available on the used market, with this well-specced version typically fetching around €18,000 in Europe. It's a lot of forward-thinking car for the money, even today!

What's New for 2016?

For the 2016 model year, the Model S 85D was in its final production phase, making way for the newer 90D. These early 2016 85D models still rocked the original iconic "nose cone" front fascia, as the significant Model S facelift arrived later in April 2016, after 85D production ceased. Autopilot hardware (HW1) was becoming more widespread, offering advanced driver-assistance capabilities through software unlocks. This trim represents one of the last opportunities to grab the pre-facelift design with this particular battery and motor combination.

Design & Exterior

The 2016 Tesla Model S 85D sports the classic, pre-facelift look with its distinctive smooth "nose cone" grille – a design that still turns heads. Its sleek, aerodynamic liftback silhouette measures an imposing 4970 mm in length, 1964 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and stands 1445 mm tall. Flush door handles contribute to its slippery shape and futuristic appeal. Standard wheels were typically 19-inch alloys, though options existed. This elegant beast certainly made a statement on European roads.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the 85D and you’re greeted by a minimalist cabin dominated by a colossal 17-inch central touchscreen, controlling almost everything. Material quality is good, offering a premium feel. It’s properly spacious, with seating for five, or optionally seven using nifty rear-facing child seats. Cargo is king here: a massive 745-litre boot expands to a van-like 1645 litres with seats down, plus a handy 60-litre frunk upfront. Tesla’s own infotainment system was slick, though no native Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Model S 85D is no slouch, hitting 0-100 km/h in a brisk 4.4 seconds thanks to its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. With a gutsy 311 kW of power and a massive 660 Nm of instant torque from its PMSM front and AC induction rear motors, it pins you to your seat. The ride is generally smooth, especially with the optional air suspension, offering a magic carpet feel. It handles neatly for a big car, and its regenerative braking is strong, allowing for one-pedal driving.

Range, Battery & Charging

The 85D packs an 80.8 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 405 km – plenty for most journeys. Its efficiency is rated at a respectable 5.01 km/kWh. AC charging is handled by a standard 11 kW on-board unit, meaning a full top-up takes around 8 hours. For rapid boosts, it gulps down DC power at up to 120 kW via Tesla's Type 2 connector on the Supercharger network, getting you back on the road quickly.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla has always prioritised safety, and the Model S scored a top-notch 5-star rating from Euro NCAP. The 2016 85D came equipped with a suite of standard safety gear, including multiple airbags and stability control. Many were fitted with Tesla's early Autopilot (HW1) hardware, which, if the software was activated, offered features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and auto park. Blind-spot monitoring and collision warnings were also part of the available tech, making it a safe bet.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Originally, the Model S 85D came with a 4-year/80,000 km basic vehicle warranty. The crucial battery and drive unit warranty was typically 8 years with unlimited kilometres for the 85 kWh pack, which is a big plus for used buyers, though many will be nearing the end of this period now. Maintenance is generally minimal compared to combustion cars – no oil changes! However, keeping an eye on tyre wear and brake fluid is still key. Overall reliability has been decent for these groundbreaking EVs.