The 2013 Tesla Model S Base is a Rear-wheel drive Sedan. It can accommodate up to 5 passengers. It has 4 Doors and is powered by a Electric motor engine which outputs and is paired with 1-speed automatic transmission gearbox. The 2013 Tesla Model S Base has cargo capacity of Liters and the vehicle weighs kg. In terms of ride assists, the 2013 Tesla Model S Base has stability control and traction control in addition to anti-lock brake system (ABS). The vehicle has an optional engine as well It offers and Backup camera. Safety features also include Driver-side front airbag and Passenger-side front airbag. The front suspension is Independent front suspension while the rear suspension is Independent rear suspension. The car also features a Yes It has 19'' alloy wheels as standard. Electronic features include Cruise Control. For convenience, the car has Power windows and Power door locks. There is also a remote keyless entry feature. Moreover, the car has. The steering wheel has audio control buttons. Fuel consumption is L/100km in the city and L/100km in the highway. The car price starts at $ 0
| Name | Base | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $ 0 | |
| Body | Sedan | |
| Doors | 4 Doors | |
| Engine | Electric motor | |
| Power | ||
| Number of Seats | 5 Seats | |
| Transmission | 1-speed automatic transmission | |
| Cargo Space | L | |
| Maximum Cargo Space | L | |
| Wheel Type | 19'' alloy wheels | |
| Series | ||
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | |
| Horsepower | 0 HP | |
| Torque | 0 N.m | |
| Top Speed | 0 km/h | |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) | 0 s | |
| Fuel Type | ||
| Fuel Consumption (City) | L/100km | |
| Fuel Consumption (Highway) | L/100km | |
| Gear Type | auto | |
| Weight | 1,850 KG | |
| Brand | Tesla | |
| Model | Model S | |
| 0-400m (Quarter Mile) | 0 s | |
| 0-400m (Quarter Mile) - Speed | 0.0 km/h | |
| 0-800m (Half Mile) | 0 s | |
| 0-800m (Half Mile) - Speed | 0.0 km/h | |
| Modifications (MODS) | ||
| Modifications Cost | $ 0 |
| Used Condition | Trade In Price | Private Party Price | Dealer Retail Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding | $ 24,808 | $ 28,521 | $ 31,596 |
| Clean | $ 23,198 | $ 26,675 | $ 29,544 |
| Average | $ 19,977 | $ 22,982 | $ 25,442 |
| Rough | $ 16,757 | $ 19,289 | $ 21,339 |
As one of the most desirable electric cars available today, the 2013 Tesla Model S is also one of the best luxury sedans, too.

Sleek, seductive, luxurious, powerful and inspiring are all words that you'd expect to hear about the latest European luxury sedan. But in this case, we're talking about one of America's latest homegrown electric vehicles, the 2013 Tesla Model S.

The Model S is a huge departure from the typical electric car, with its luxury sedan accommodations and pulse-quickening performance. Thanks to a thoroughly modern interpretation of interior design and a host of advanced technological features, the Model S also serves as a new benchmark for all vehicles, electric or otherwise.

Nor is the Tesla Model S exclusive to the ultra-wealthy. As-new pricing for the base model starts around $ 70,000, and that's not including a federal tax credit. While this isn't exactly chump change, the base model's EPA-estimated range of 208 miles is more than double that of any other electric vehicle, and that means the Model S is a much more viable EV to own. To get the most out of your Model S ownership, though, we'd recommend the bigger (and more expensive) 85 kWh battery pack, which provides an estimated 265 miles of range.

Whether you spring for the base model or go all-in for a fully loaded version that exceeds the $ 100,000 mark, you're assured to get one of the most noteworthy cars since the introduction of the Model T. Better yet, the Tesla is nearly sacrifice-free, as it rides and drives as well as some of the best luxury cars available. It also benefits from a wealth of utility and convenience with its generous luggage space and third-row seating option.

Compared to established, traditional flagship luxury sedans, however, the Model S's long-distance capability is at best compromised and reliability is unknown. We've purchased our own Model S with the 85 kWh battery pack for a 12-month test, and during that time we've experienced a variety of glitches and problems. We encourage you to follow our 2013 Model S long-term road test updates to learn how this high-end EV performs in daily life.
Considering the Model S is a new type of car coming from a new, relatively tiny automaker that has just one previous car under its belt (the Roadster), perhaps it doesn't come as a surprise that there are some inevitable bugs to work out. Buying a Tesla Model S does require an "early adopter" mindset. But the Silicon Valley startup vibe that surrounds this EV is also one of the most alluring attributes about Model S ownership. For good and for bad, there is simply nothing like Tesla's all-electric luxury sedan, and as far as we can tell, there won't be for a while.
The 2013 Tesla Model S is a large, five-passenger luxury sedan. It's available in two trim levels: base and Performance.
Tesla has tinkered with the Model S's standard features slightly as the model year has progressed, but in general expect standard equipment to include 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights, full power accessories, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 17-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, cloth/premium vinyl upholstery, heated eight-way power front seats (with four-way power lumbar), 60/40-split-folding rear seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a seven-speaker sound system with dual USB ports (charging only) and HD radio. A cellular connection, Internet radio and WiFi connectivity are also included.
An option for the 60 kWh model is the Supercharger Enabled package; it allows you to utilize Tesla's growing network of Supercharger stations around the country. Upgraded tires (for slightly greater range) are also optional. Besides an increase in battery capacity and motor output, the 85-kWh models come with the above two options as standard.
For any Model S, the optional High Power Home Charging package equips your car with twin onboard chargers, effectively doubling its recharge rate and allowing you to best take advantage of high-output chargers such as Tesla's home charger, the High Powered Wall Connecter (HPWC). The HPWC is included with this package.
Since the Model S features mobile Internet connectivity, access to Web-based navigation and maps is possible, but turn-by-turn guidance is only available as part of the optional Tech package. Other Tech package features include LED foglights and cornering lights, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, a power rear hatch, keyless ignition/entry and driver memory settings.
Other options include 21-inch wheels with performance tires, an adaptive air suspension (with adjustable ride height), front and rear parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, rear-facing third-row seats, a 12-speaker surround-sound audio system (with satellite radio), leather upholstery, sport front seats, extended leather upholstery, heated rear seats, a simulated suede headliner (standard for 85 kWh) and ambient LED interior lighting.
The 2013 Tesla Model S is propelled by a single water-cooled electric motor, routing power through a single-speed transmission on its way to the rear wheels. Lithium-ion battery packs are also utilized throughout the lineup.
Early in the model year, Tesla offered a base 40-kWh battery pack. It was discontinued because of low consumer demand, however, and vehicles delivered as 40 kWh actually had a detuned version of the 60-kWh battery pack. If you decide you want more power and cruising range, it's upgradeable. Regardless, this Model S version can produce the equivalent of 235 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The EPA rates this battery for a cruising range of 139 miles.
With the 60 kWh battery, output increases to 302 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Tesla expects it to reach 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The EPA estimates a range of 208 miles. It's a realistic number, but as with all EVs, your driving style greatly influences actual range.
The 85 kWh model makes 362 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque with an estimated 0-60-mph run of 5.6 seconds and an EPA range of 265 miles. Upgrading to the 85 kWh Performance boosts output to 416 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, still with a range of 265 miles. In testing, the Tesla Model S Performance accelerated to 60 mph in a very quick 4.3 seconds, which confirms Tesla's 4.4-second estimate.
In terms of efficiency, the EPA estimates the Model S with the 85 kWh battery will use 38 kWh city/37 kWh highway and 38 kWh combined per 100 miles driven. (Remember that here, the lower the number, the better.) The Model S with the 60 kWh battery pack is more energy-efficient, as it's EPA-rated at 35 kWh per 100 miles.
The base Model S with the 60 kWh battery has a 10 kWh onboard charger. The optional High Power Home Charging package adds another charger to double this charging ability to 20 kWh. (For comparison, the Nissan Leaf's singular onboard charger is rated at 6.6 kWh.) All Teslas can be recharged from all standard 110- and 240-volt household outlets and from various public charging stations using the included Universal Mobile Connector and adapters.
Charging with a 110-volt outlet is very slow -- you'll only be able to recharge about 3 miles worth of range per hour. (Translation: You'll be better off walking.) In contrast, utilizing a 240-volt outlet with a 50-amp circuit (referred to as a NEMA 14-50 outlet, and common at RV parks), you can recharge about 30 miles of range per hour, which works out to about 7 hours to completely recharge the 60 kWh pack with the single onboard charger. The 85 kWh would need about 9 hours.
The dual-charger system -- which needs a 100-amp circuit to operate at full capacity -- is an option. Using the HPWC doubles the recharge rate to about 60 miles worth of range per hour, meaning a full recharge for the 60 kWh takes about 3.5 hours, and the 85 kWh takes about 4.5 hours.
The Model S can also use a nationwide network of "superchargers" that Tesla is building. Tesla says the industrial-grade, high-speed chargers can replenish up to 200 miles of range in the 85 kWh batteries in about an hour, enabling long-distance travel. We've already taken a couple road trips between Los Angeles and San Francisco in our long-term Model S and have found that the supercharger network in California makes this a relatively easy proposition.
Standard safety features for all 2013 Tesla Model S variants include head, knee and pelvic airbags for the front passengers as well as front and rear side curtain airbags. Also standard on all models are stability and traction control, crash sensors for high-voltage disconnect, antilock disc brakes and a rearview camera.
In government crash tests, the Model S earned a top five-star rating for overall crash protection, with five stars for frontal-impact safety and five stars for side-impact safety. In brake testing, the Model S with optional 21-inch wheels and performance tires came to a stop from 60 mph in an impressive 108 feet.
The 2013 Tesla Model S effectively crushes every preconceived notion you may have had about electric cars. Unlike the quirky pod cars, golf carts or even economy car-based EVs, the Tesla drives just like a conventional luxury sedan. Our experience has been limited to the 85 kWh Performance model, and we're utterly impressed on a number of levels.
Acceleration is both quick and eerily quiet. With all torque being immediately available, it's like being shot out of a gun barrel -- with a silencer. Braking is also praiseworthy, not just because the pedal feels like one from a conventional car, but also because it gets the Model S stopped with authority. The well-tuned steering and suspension further add to the experience, with a sharpness and accuracy not typically found in an EV.
Fortunately, the Model S's sporty capabilities don't come at the expense of comfort and compliance, as the ride quality is smooth and agreeable. Through neighborhoods and around town, the electric nature of the Model S means it's super quiet. At freeway speeds, however, wind and road noise take over, and the big sedan becomes merely average in terms of cabin quietness.
The 2013 Tesla Model S features a cabin that is as modern and classy as you'll find in any segment. Almost all knobs and buttons are absent, replaced by a sleek 17-inch vertical touchscreen that controls almost all onboard systems. It is essentially a big and beautiful iPad. Besides looking good, the system actually functions well, too. Users can configure the placement of audio, navigation and climate controls to their liking.
For the directionally challenged, however, we would recommend springing for the expensive Tech package that includes a turn-by-turn navigation system that is more like the units found in conventional cars. The standard system can access online maps for viewing, but that's about the extent of its function.
In terms of comfort, both front and rear seats offer ample legroom for adults, though taller rear-seat passengers may run out of headroom. The front seats are nice, but they do lack the multitude of adjustments (and, ultimately, comfort and support) found in other similarly priced luxury sedans. The optional rear-facing jump seats are comically small, and only small children are able to sit back there. That said, it's a unique option, and the seats have multipoint belts, so no added safety seat is needed.
These third-row seats fold flat into the foot well, allowing for a capacious 26.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which is significantly more than other large luxury sedans. Folding the middle row flat expands that space to 58 cubes. There's also a secondary trunk under the hood that offers 5.3 cubic feet of storage.
Materials throughout the cabin are comparable to the typical luxury sedan, but those who purchase the range-topping models might expect more than the Model S delivers. The leather upholstery is by no means a disappointment; it's just not up to premium luxury standards. Elsewhere, the typical window switches and driver controls have been sourced from Mercedes-Benz, making them hard to fault by any measure.
The Tesla Model S is the antithesis of a boring electric car. Even in slowest form – the 60-kWh version – the Model S accelerates from standstill to 60-miles per hour in a mere 5.9 seconds. The pace quickens further in the 85-kWh model, peaking at a supercar-like 4.4 second 0-to-60 time in the raciest 85-kWh Performance model. Matching the thrill of seamless and instant electric thrust are agile handling enabled by the vehicle’s low center of gravity and a quick steering ratio that is fun while also hindering stability at speed. Unlike some electric cars, the Model S cruises effortlessly at freeway speeds, easily overtaking slower traffic when the need arises. Lacking an engine, the cabin is oddly quiet when the vehicle is in motion, an initially strange but quickly appreciated trait.
17-INCH INFOTAINMENT SCREENThe Model S's standard 17-inch touch screen is remarkable and not just due to sheer size. The screen is easily reconfigurable, bright, vivid, intuitive, and reacts to taps, pinch and drag gestures with snappy immediacy. It is almost certainly the best in-vehicle infotainment system available.REAR-FACING JUMP SEATSLike wood-paneled wagons of yore, the Model S can be equipped with rear-facing jump seats that boost total seating capacity from five to seven. The smallish jump seats feature 5-point seatbelts and make fine supplemental seating for children eager to taunt whomever their parents have just passed.
Absent a gasoline engine, the Tesla Model S boasts a staggering amount of cargo and passenger space. In addition to a sizable rear cargo area, the Model S's hood hides a supplemental front trunk, or "frunk" as Tesla calls it. Passenger accommodations are ample in the front seat, becoming progressively tighter as you move rearward. Headroom in the second row can be tight for taller passengers, and the optional rear-facing jump seats are sized for children only. Though some areas could be improved, material quality is generally good throughout the simple modern cabin.
Tesla calls the 2013 Model S a sedan, but it's really more of a hatchback, marked by a wide rear hatch that leads to a spacious cargo area. However it's classified, we think that Tesla has crafted a handsome, restrained shape made all the more appealing by its impressively slick 0.24 drag co-efficient. Adding to the wind-cheating design are retractable door handles that automatically emerge when the key is nearby. Ride quality is generally good, even with the optional 21-inch performance tire and wheel package, but if ride comfort were our top priority we'd probably stick with the standard 19-inch wheels.
Standard Model S features include 12-way-adjustable heated front seats, cloth/synthetic-leather upholstery, eight airbags, a 7-speaker 200-watt audio system that lacks a CD player but includes two USB inputs, and a 17-inch screen handling climate, entertainment and vehicle controls. Interestingly, the Model S also lacks any sort of "ignition" or start button – just buckle up with the key in your pocket, put your foot on the brake, pull the gear selector into drive, and the car is ready to go. Black or white exterior paint is offered free of charge but for any other color expect to pay extra.
If driving a vision of the future isn't interesting enough, consider indulging in options like a panoramic glass roof, Nappa leather, a 580-watt 12-speaker premium audio system, or a Tech Package that bundles features like HID headlights, navigation, a backup camera and a power rear liftgate. An active air suspension is offered as well, which adapts to current road conditions and allows the vehicle to raise itself to clear steep driveways or lower itself for improved aerodynamics at speed. Lastly, an optional wall connector allows for charging at home while a second on-vehicle charger helps shorten recharge times.
The 2013 Model S lineup is defined by a battery hierarchy. The 60-kWh, 85-kWh and 85-kWh Performance models each offer increasing levels of driving range, power and performance. All versions feature rear-wheel drive and an 8-year battery warranty with varying mileage limitations. Tesla is also in the process of constructing a network of “Superchargers” strategically placed along heavily trafficked corridors, giving owners of 85-kWh and properly equipped 60-kWh Model S’s the ability to quickly replenish their batteries to 50-percent charge in 30 minutes. By exponentially speeding recharge times Tesla’s Supercharging network hopes to make pure-electric long-distance travel a reality.60-kWh302 horsepower @ 5,000-8,000 rpm317 lb-ft of torque @ 0-5,000 rpmRange 230 miles @ 55 mph85-kWh 362 horsepower @ 6,000-9,500 rpm325 lb-ft of torque @ 0-5,800 rpmRange 300 miles @ 55 mph85-kWh Performance416 horsepower @ 5,000-8,600 rpm443 lb-ft of torque @ 05,100 rpmRange 300 miles @ 55 mph
Taking into account a $ 990 destination fee, a $ 180 vehicle-preparation fee and a $ 7,500 federal tax credit, pricing for a 2013 Model S with a 60-kWh battery starts at about $ 63,570. The 85-kWh and 85-kWh Performance models are each about $ 10,000 pricier than version beneath them. Add all the options to a top-of-the-line Model S and the price tag lands around the $ 100,000 mark. Electric cars like the Ford Focus Electric, Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i are all much less expensive than the Tesla Model S but the performance, design and general appeal of the Tesla do plenty to justify its elevated costs. Be sure to check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for the most up-to-date pricing of the 2013 Tesla Model S in your area. Due to low production volumes Kelley Blue Book doesn’t yet track the residual values of the Model S, though it is worth noting that limited availability tends to drive higher resale numbers.
| Engine | Standard in Trim | Power | Torque | Fuel Consumption - City | Fuel Consumption - Highway | 0-100 km/h | Quarter Mile | Half Mile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Triple AC Electric Motors | Tesla Model S Plaid | 1020 hp | 0 N.m | 0.0 L/100km | 0.0 L/100km | 3.1 s | 10.2 s | 17.0 s |
| Dual AC Electric Motors | Tesla Model S Standard | 0 N.m | 0.0 L/100km | 0.0 L/100km | 0 s | 0 s | 0 s |
| AM/FM stereo radio | Yes |
|---|---|
| Air Conditionning | Dual-zone automatic climate control |
| Bluetooth Wireless Technology | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes |
| Driver Vanity Mirror | Illuminated driver-side vanity mirror |
| Front Wipers | Variable intermittent windshield wipers with rain sensing |
| Interior Air Filter | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 7 speakers/2 tweeters |
| Passenger Vanity Mirror | Illuminated front passenger-side vanity mirror |
| Power Door Locks | Yes |
| Power Outlet | 1 12-volt power outlet |
| Power Windows | Yes |
| Reading Light | Front and rear reading lights |
| Remote Audio Controls | Steering wheel mounted audio controls |
| Remote Keyless Entry | Yes |
| Single CD | CD/MP3 player |
| Special Feature | USB port |
| Steering Wheel Adjustment | Power tilt and telescopic steering wheel |
| Trunk/Hatch Operation | Remote trunk release |
| Front Headroom | 1010 mm |
|---|---|
| Front Legroom | 1066 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 155 mm |
| Height | 1436 mm |
| Length | 4975 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 929 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 932 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2959 mm |
| Width | 1963 mm |
| Driving Lights | LED daytime running lights |
|---|---|
| Exterior Decoration | LED taillights |
| Exterior Folding Mirrors | Manual folding side mirrors |
| Headlight Type | Halogen headlights |
| Headlights Sensor With Auto On | Automatic headlights |
| Power Exterior Mirrors | Power-adjustable outside mirrors with integrated turn signals |
| Rear Window Defroster | Yes |
| Floor Console | Center console |
|---|---|
| Folding Rear Seats | 60/40-split folding rear bench seat |
| Front Center Armrest | Yes |
| Front Seats Driver Power Seats | 8-way power driver's seat |
| Front Seats Passenger Power Seats | 8-way power front passenger seat |
| Luxury Dashboard Trim | Piano black decor accents |
| Number of Cup Holders | Cupholders |
| Seat Trim | Cloth and synthetic leather seats |
| Steering Wheel Trim | 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel |
| Drive Train | Rear-wheel drive |
|---|---|
| Engine Name | Electric motor |
| Stability Control | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes |
| Transmission | 1-speed automatic transmission |
| Body | Sedan |
|---|---|
| Doors | 4 |
| Engine | Electric motor |
| Fuel Consumption | |
| Seats | 5 |
| Transmission | 1-speed automatic transmission |
| Anti-Lock Brakes | Anti-lock brakes |
|---|---|
| Anti-Theft Alarm | Alarm system |
| Brake Type | 4-wheel disc |
| Child Seat Anchor | Child seat anchors |
| Child-proof Locks | Child security rear door locks |
| Driver Airbag | Driver-side front airbag |
| Front Seat Belts | Regular |
| Knee Airbags | Front knees airbags |
| Passenger Airbag | Passenger-side front airbag |
| Rear View Camera | Backup camera |
| Side Airbag | Side curtains airbags |
| Front Suspension | Independent front suspension |
|---|---|
| Front Tires | 245/45R19 |
| Power Steering | Speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering |
| Rear Suspension | Independent rear suspension |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | Yes |
| Wheel Type | 19'' alloy wheels |
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