What the 2025 Tesla Model S Does Right
Blistering Performance
The 2025 Tesla Model S continues to deliver supercar-level performance in a luxury sedan package. The base All-Wheel Drive trim features dual electric motors producing 670 horsepower, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. For those who crave even more power, the Plaid trim takes things to the extreme with three electric motors generating 1,020 horsepower and a claimed 0-60 mph time of just 1.99 seconds.
Consumer Reports found the Model S to be the quickest car they’ve ever tested, with neck-snapping acceleration that’s exhilarating yet smooth. While the Insane mode is perfect for outright speed, the Sport mode offers more than enough power for daily driving. The Model S also impresses with its handling, offering quick turn-in, ample grip, and minimal body roll. Its all-wheel-drive system ensures power is delivered efficiently, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads.
Competitive Range and Charging Network
The Model S remains one of the few EVs capable of replacing a gas-powered car for long-distance travel. The base All-Wheel Drive trim offers an estimated 410 miles of range, while the Plaid trim delivers up to 348 miles. While these figures are impressive, they fall short of the Lucid Air’s class-leading 512 miles and the Rivian R1T’s 420 miles. However, Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network makes charging convenient and fast, giving the Model S an edge in usability.
Comfortable and Versatile Interior
As a large sedan, the Model S offers a spacious cabin with comfortable and supportive seats. Unlike some other Tesla models, the seat adjustments are conveniently located on the sides of the seats rather than buried in the central touchscreen. The front seats are particularly pleasant, and the quiet cabin and compliant ride quality make the Model S a great daily driver.
The Model S also stands out for its versatility, thanks to its hatchback design and front trunk. With the rear seats in place, it offers 25 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding the rear seats expands that to 61.4 cubic feet, and the front trunk adds another three cubic feet. This level of practicality is rare in the luxury EV segment.
What Could Be Better in the 2025 Tesla Model S
Lack of Luxury and Build Quality Issues
Despite its high price tag, the Model S doesn’t feel as luxurious as its competitors. The interior materials and design lack the premium feel found in rivals like the Lucid Air, BMW i7, and Mercedes-Benz EQS. Build quality remains a persistent issue, with reports of squeaks, rattles, and ill-fitting trim—problems that shouldn’t exist in a vehicle at this price point.
Frustrating Controls and Gimmicky Features
The Model S’s minimalist interior design places nearly all controls in the central touchscreen, which can be cumbersome to use. Simple tasks like adjusting the climate settings or opening the glovebox require navigating through menus, making the system less intuitive than traditional buttons and knobs.
The optional yoke-style steering wheel is another source of frustration. While it looks futuristic, Consumer Reports found it uncomfortable to use on long drives, requiring awkward hand positions that can lead to fatigue. For many drivers, the yoke feels more like a gimmick than a practical feature.
Rear Seat Comfort
While the front seats are spacious and comfortable, the rear seats are less accommodating. Limited foot space and a low seating position can make the rear seats uncomfortable for taller passengers, especially on longer trips. This is an area where competitors like the BMW i7 and Lucid Air excel.
Reliability Concerns
The 2025 Tesla Model S has a predicted reliability score of just 35 out of 100, according to Consumer Reports. While Tesla’s powertrains are generally reliable, the Model S’s overall reliability is below average, which could lead to higher maintenance costs over time.
Our Take
The 2025 Tesla Model S remains a strong contender in the luxury EV market, offering blistering performance, competitive range, and a versatile interior. Its balanced handling and comfortable ride make it a great choice for drivers who value speed and practicality. However, its lack of luxury, frustrating controls, and ongoing build quality issues hold it back from being the class leader it once was.
So, who is the Model S best suited for? It’s an excellent option for tech-savvy drivers and performance enthusiasts who prioritize speed and range over luxury and refinement. However, buyers looking for a more upscale experience may find better options in competitors like the Lucid Air or BMW i7.
In the end, the 2025 Tesla Model S is still a compelling choice, but it’s no longer the trailblazer it once was. With newer, more refined options entering the market, the Model S feels like it’s playing catch-up rather than leading the charge.
