Video Summary
The Tesla Roadster 2.5 features smoother, more aggressive styling with a carbon fiber body. New air vents are located just ahead of the front wheels. 16-inch wheels are standard, and new black or silver 17-inch wheels are available. The LED taillights and a new diffuser complete the rear design.It uses a rear-mounted 375-volt AC induction air-cooled electric motor tied to a lithium-ion battery pack.
The base Roadster outputs 288 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Sport model outputs 288 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
With a single-speed fixed-gear driveline, the tester shot from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds, factory claims say even faster. The quarter-mile test passed in 13.3 seconds at 102 mph. Top speed is 125 mph.
Maximum torque is available from the start. There was near-zero chirp leaving the line.
The Roadster’s chassis is rigid and lightweight. The all-independent suspension uses upper and lower unequal-length wishbones. The steering is traditional sports car heavy with a bit of understeer. The all-disc regenerative brakes are strong.
Road tests are smooth and solid, but the lack of a substantial soundtrack throws one off. There is just a fluttery, high-pitched whine. Wind and tire noise become almost annoying at speeds.
The quoted range is 245 miles, depending on whether and how aggressively it is driven. Improved control hardware boosts hot weather performance. A 70 amp wall connector cuts charging time to three and a half hours.
The Tesla cockpit is sporty and uncluttered. There are improved trim and optional leather seats.
Trunk space is tight but revised electronics made it more generous than before.
The base price for the Tesla Roadster 2.5 is $109,000. The Sport model begins at $128,500. This is before factoring in federal and state tax credits.
