For drivers willing to account for a larger body and premium running costs.
Referral disclosure · The Tesla link is for a separate FSD one-month trial, not a new-vehicle purchase discount. We may receive a reward if you subscribe during the trial. Read the full disclosure
Model S: key features
| Item | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Vehicle role | Premium sedan |
| Buying route | Check local inventory, vehicle condition and availability |
| Compare with | Model 3 for everyday cost and size |
Equipment and specifications vary by model year, trim and region. Official Model S photos and specifications
Your pre-purchase checklist
- Check current inventory and ordering availability rather than assuming every configuration can be ordered new.
- For inventory or used cars, check model year, mileage, equipment and remaining warranty.
- Get insurance and tire estimates before focusing on performance figures.
Where possible, test-drive the trim you are considering. Compare your commute, passengers and luggage needs rather than focusing only on peak performance figures.
What a driver reported
Model S owners described liking the yoke for a clearer instrument display, while the original poster worried about three-point turns. It is hard to judge that trade-off from photos.
Try parking, U-turns and tight streets in the steering configuration you would buy. Check the exact model-year equipment in the order screen.
How should you compare cost, range and charging?
Total purchase cost
Add options, delivery fees, taxes and registration, and subtract only discounts that actually apply. Tesla lists delivery fees for new orders. Separate estimated savings from your final payment and obtain insurance, tire and charger-installation estimates.
Compare range on the same basis
Check the exact trim and wheels and compare U.S. EPA figures. Mixing EPA and WLTP figures can be misleading. Speed, weather and elevation affect actual range; do not assume you can use the entire stated range on every trip.
Charging at home and on your usual routes
Check whether you can install a home charger, what parking permission is required and how much electrical work will cost. If you rely on public charging, compare travel time and charging prices first.
Charging-cost example
If you are billed for 300 kWh in a month at $0.20/kWh, electricity costs $60. This illustrates the calculation, not a consumption forecast for a particular Tesla. Add any parking, congestion or other fees.
Frequently asked questions
Does a new-car order include a referral FSD trial?
Tesla currently lists no new-vehicle buyer referral benefit. Eligible existing owners may check a separate one-month FSD referral trial.Tesla referral guideexplains what to check before ordering.
Can I hand over driving responsibility to FSD?
FSD (Supervised) is driver assistance requiring active supervision. Follow the vehicle manual and remain responsible for driving.
When will I receive an order placed today?
Timing depends on your location, inventory and selected vehicle. Check the estimated order window and distinguish it from a confirmed delivery appointment.
Other models to compare
Tesla Model 3 guide
A sedan to consider for daily commuting and weekend trips.
Tesla Model X guide
An SUV with distinctive rear doors and seating configurations to inspect in person.
Sources and update history
Tesla Model Sofficial vehicle information ↗Tesla ordering and delivery information ↗FSD (Supervised) new-owner trial conditions ↗Tesla referral program terms ↗First-hand driver report ↗2026-09-11 · Official vehicle information and an attributed driver report. We did not test-drive this vehicle; check your own order terms and costs.
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