Tesla Model S Standard Range

Overview

The 2020 Tesla Model S Standard Range was a bit of a unicorn, offering a slice of the full-fat Model S experience at a more palatable price point before it bowed out. This all-wheel-drive electric limo packed that signature Tesla punch and tech, aiming to lure buyers into the premium EV club. While new ones are long gone, you might snag a used one in Europe for around €34,900. It was the entry ticket to Tesla’s game-changing liftback saloon, blending performance with practicality, though its production run was tantalisingly short.

What's New for 2020?

For 2020, the 'Standard Range' trim itself was still a relatively fresh face in the Model S line-up, continuing its brief mission to offer a more accessible entry point. This specific version benefited from the 'Raven' adaptive air suspension and powertrain updates rolled out across the Model S family, meaning a super-smooth ride and sharper efficiency. Think a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) up front and an AC Induction Motor (IM) at the rear for that clever all-wheel drive. Sadly, 2020 also marked its final curtain call, making it a rare beast.

Design & Exterior

The Model S silhouette was already legendary by 2020, and this Standard Range variant wore it well – still looking futuristic with its slippery shape and cool flush door handles. It’s a sizeable machine, stretching 4970 mm in length, 1964 mm wide (mirrors tucked in!), and standing 1445 mm tall. While not dramatically different externally from its pricier siblings, it offered that same head-turning, minimalist EV aesthetic that Tesla pioneered. Expect smart alloy wheels and those distinctive LED lights that make it unmistakably a Model S, even from a distance.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside, and you’re greeted by Tesla’s signature minimalist cabin, dominated by that massive central touchscreen – your command centre for pretty much everything. The Standard Range offers seating for five with decent passenger space. Material quality is good, though perhaps not quite up to some old-guard luxury rivals. For lugging stuff, it’s ace: a huge 745-litre boot expands to a van-like 1645 litres with seats down, plus a handy 60-litre frunk under the bonnet! No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto though; it's all Tesla's own slick infotainment system.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't let 'Standard Range' fool you; this Model S still absolutely flies! It’ll rocket from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 4.2 seconds, thanks to its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. You've got a potent 398 kW and a hefty 755 Nm of instant torque on tap from its clever PMSM front and IM rear motor combo, all pushing you towards a top speed of 250 km/h. The ride is typically smooth and composed, especially with adaptive air suspension, and the regenerative braking is strong, allowing for plenty of one-pedal driving antics.

Range, Battery & Charging

Under the floor sits a 72.5 kWh usable battery pack, giving a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 413 km – pretty decent for daily duties and some longer jaunts. Efficiency is a respectable 5.7 km/kWh. For juicing up, it has a Tesla Type 2 (Mennekes) port, suitable for European charging. At home or work, the standard 16.5 kW on-board AC charger can refill it in about 4.5 hours. Out and about, it’ll gulp down DC electricity at up to 100 kW from a Supercharger or compatible 400V station.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a big Tesla calling card, and the Model S Standard Range doesn't skimp, bagging a top-tier 5-star rating from Euro NCAP. It came generously equipped with Tesla’s Autopilot as standard, which includes adaptive cruise control and sophisticated lane-keeping assist, taking the stress out of motorway slogs. You also get essentials like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. For those wanting the full suite of futuristic tech, the more advanced Full Self-Driving Capability was an optional extra, promising even more autonomous features down the line.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla’s warranty package for the Model S Standard Range was pretty solid. You’d typically get a 4-year / 80,000 km basic vehicle warranty covering most bits and bobs. Crucially, the battery and drive unit were covered for a lengthy 8 years or 192,000 km, whichever came first, including a guarantee against excessive degradation. Maintenance is generally minimal with EVs – no oil changes here! Tesla recommends occasional checks, but there’s no strict schedule of complimentary dealer visits, keeping things relatively hassle-free for owners compared to traditional cars.