2020 Tesla Model S Review

It's difficult to believe now — given the neat-but-flawed Model X and stupefying Cybertruck — that Tesla knocked it out of the park on its first attempt. The 2020 Tesla Model S is a continuation of the vehicle that turned the automotive world on its head nearly a decade ago. And despite no significant changes since its debut, the Model S remains one of the preeminent electric cars.

A standard air suspension provides the basis for this large sedan's comfortable ride, while the seats are both supportive and cushy. Inside is a thoughtfully trimmed cabin. It doesn't stun like the German and Japanese competition, but it quietly impresses in a restrained, almost Scandinavian way.

What isn't discreet is the giant 17-inch tablet that houses the infotainment system. While the on-screen menus are logically laid out, they are distracting to use and almost necessitate the presence of the standard Autopilot driving system. For a vehicle brimming with tech, we're also let down by the absence of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration.

There's nothing to gripe about when it comes to performance. Even the base version is capable of hitting 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, and paying an extra $20,000 for the Performance knocks that down to 2.3 seconds. Those are supercar numbers, and almost unbelievable when you consider the Performance trim barely tips the six-figure mark. Estimated range also tops anything else on sale today, though we've often found real-world range falls a bit short of Tesla's figures.

Even after all this time, the Tesla Model S is one of the best EVs on the road. It faces serious competition this year with the arrival of the Porsche Taycan, but the Taycan is also a lot more expensive, offers less range, and isn't as quick. 

What's it like to live with the Model S?

Edmunds' editorial team purchased and then tested a 2013 Tesla Model S for a full year. In our experience the early build Model S was prone to premature tire wear and a number of quality issues, which were sorted out in the subsequent years. That said, we found it to be a fun car to drive and unlike anything else on the road at the time.

The 2020 Tesla Model S differs from our early long-term Model S in a number of ways. It's the same generation, though, so many of our general driving impressions still apply. To learn more about the Tesla Model S of this generation, read our complete 2013 Tesla Model S long-term road test.