Video Summary
The 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid starts at about $99,999. In a Colorado evening in Loveland, CO, we will have an overnight experience with a Model S Plaid.On this Model S plaid, 0-60 mph is 1.99 seconds, more than a thousand horsepower, three permanent magnet motors, and a 100 kWh battery. For this tire set-up, the EPA range is 368 miles. If you bump up to 21” wheels, the EPA drops down to 328 miles. The presenter thinks that for a $100K car, that is a lot.
The car tested for this video had an upgraded white interior and lunar silver base wheels and with options, it priced at $105K.
Initial reaction for the newly refreshed Model S is that when the car came out, many said it was the laziest update possible.
There is a fully redesigned front bumper. Initial reactions to the design were lukewarm, with the presenter saying that Tesla went the laziest route in updating the car, but it is now thought to be acceptable.
The team at Tesla Loveland has been incredible, and the presented was able to take the Model S overnight to do this review.
There has been a lack of communication from Tesla, and this car is only being called a “new model”.
If you compare Tesla to the German cars, there may not be some of the German standards, and although many people feel that not doing anything to a “broken” system.
Wind noise is noticeably less with the new Model S, but still some rattling. A common Tesla issue.
The interior is also largely unchanged, but high marks are given for the new upgraded seats.
These new seats make this Model S comfortable to drive. They feature a side bolster that the presenter said felt really hard because it feels like it has plastic in it. However, the microsuede is a nice accent and helps keep the driver from sliding around. The presenter said that sitting in the new seats felt like being hugged by a panda.
Ambient lighting has been added to Model S. The lights are imperceptible until they are turned on. Tesla has not incorporated that into the 3 and the Y. It is a nice and subtle touch.
When engaged, plaid mode adds firmness to the steering and stiffens the suspension and also allows full acceleration. With so much power, it is easy to roast the front tires and do burn outs. The computer is working to keep the driver under control.
To create more distinct looks, it appears Tesla gave the Model S rear bumper the treatment from the performance model.
The car still has issues with rattles and some wind noise. It rides a bit nervous over rough roads.
New Model S offers a different approach in the way that you can dial in custom settings to fine-tune the driving experience.
Overall, The Model S is “that all season tire in the EV world”.
The key is that Model S is still “damn fast”. The presenter notes that with the power and range, it provides a good proposition for people willing to spend the $100K plus dollars.
