Tesla Model S 90D

Overview

The 2016 Tesla Model S 90D, though now discontinued, remains a benchmark for electric luxury and performance. As a key player in pioneering the premium EV saloon segment, this all-wheel-drive variant offered a compelling blend of blistering pace, substantial range, and cutting-edge tech. With its sleek liftback design, it provided practicality alongside its futuristic appeal. On the pre-owned market, you might find one in Europe for around €21,700. It was a true game-changer, setting high expectations for all electric vehicles that followed, offering access to Tesla's then-exclusive Supercharger network for effortless long-distance travel.

What's New for 2016?

For 2016, the Model S, including the 90D, received a significant facelift, ditching the original black "nose cone" for a sleeker, body-coloured front fascia aligning it with the Model X. This refresh also introduced new adaptive full LED headlamps. Inside, a notable upgrade was the optional HEPA air filtration system, famously dubbed "Bioweapon Defense Mode." The 90D itself benefited from the updated 90 kWh battery pack, offering improved range over its 85D predecessor, making it an even more capable grand tourer for European adventures.

Design & Exterior

The 2016 Model S 90D sports that iconic, slippery liftback silhouette that still turns heads. The mid-cycle refresh sharpened its gaze with new LED headlights and a cleaner front end, looking more poised and modern. Its impressive dimensions are a length of 4970 mm, a width (excluding mirrors) of 1964 mm, and a height of 1445 mm, giving it a commanding presence. Flush door handles and an unfussy design contribute to its aerodynamic efficiency and sophisticated, premium aesthetic that many competitors still try to emulate.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the 90D and you're greeted by that massive 17-inch central touchscreen, the command centre for almost everything. Cabin materials generally feel premium, though some rivals might offer more traditional luxury. Passenger space is generous for five, with an optional rear-facing third-row for kids, making it a "5, 7" seater. Cargo is king here: a whopping 745 litres in the boot, expanding to 1645 litres with seats folded, plus a handy 60-litre frunk up front. Tesla's native infotainment system was comprehensive, though lacked smartphone mirroring like CarPlay/Android Auto at the time.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Model S 90D is seriously quick, dispatching 0-100 km/h in a neck-snapping 4.4 seconds thanks to its dual-motor (PMSM front, IM rear) all-wheel-drive system. This setup churns out a hefty 311 kW of power and 660 Nm of instant torque, pinning you to your seat. It’s not just about straight-line grunt; the 90D offers a composed and surprisingly agile driving experience for its size, with a comfortable ride. Regenerative braking is strong and intuitive, allowing for one-pedal driving much of the time, adding to its smooth, effortless character.

Range, Battery & Charging

Packing an 85.5 kWh usable battery, the 90D boasts a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range estimate of around 413 km, making long trips a breeze. Its efficiency is rated at a respectable 4.83 km/kWh. For AC charging via its Tesla Type 2 (Mennekes) port, the standard 11 kW on-board charger can replenish the battery overnight in about 8-9 hours. When you need a quick top-up, it can guzzle electrons at up to 120 kW from a DC fast charger (including Tesla's 400V Superchargers), getting you back on the road swiftly.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a strong suit for the Model S, with the 2016 model achieving a stellar 5-star rating from Euro NCAP and NHTSA. Standard safety kit was comprehensive, including multiple airbags and stability control. The 90D came equipped with Autopilot hardware. While some features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were often part of optional software packages, the underlying tech provided a solid foundation for advanced driver assistance, contributing to a reassuring and semi-autonomous driving experience on motorways when activated.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

For European owners, Tesla typically offered a basic vehicle warranty of 4 years or 80,000 km for the Model S. Crucially, the 90 kWh battery pack and drive unit were covered for a more substantial 8 years with unlimited mileage, including a guarantee against excessive degradation. Tesla's maintenance approach is generally 'as-needed' rather than fixed schedules, which can mean lower routine servicing costs. Reliability for the powertrain was a strong point, though early Model S examples had some known niggles with items like door handles.