Since its grand entrance, the Tesla Model S has been turning heads and setting benchmarks in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. Long before the Model 3, Model Y, or Model X became household names, the Model S was Tesla’s flagship, debuting in 2012 and arriving in Canada as a 2013 model. Over the years, this pioneering sedan has seen a remarkable evolution, boasting numerous upgrades and a variety of trims that might seem overwhelming to navigate.
To simplify your journey through the Model S lineage and help you pinpoint the perfect model for your needs, we’ve created this comprehensive guide. We’ll explore each key version, highlighting the significant updates and advancements that have shaped the Model S into the icon it is today. Whether you’re a seasoned EV enthusiast or a newcomer considering your first electric car, understanding the different Tesla Model S models is crucial.
2024 Tesla Model S | Source: Tesla
The Genesis: Original Tesla Model S Trims (2013-2016)
The Tesla Model S made its Canadian debut in 2013, marking the start of a new era for electric sedans. In its initial years, Tesla offered a range of Model S variants, each distinguished by its battery capacity and performance characteristics.
2013 Model S 40 kWh: The Short-Lived Entry Model
As the inaugural year for the Model S in Canada, 2013 presented four distinct trims, with the 40 kWh version positioned as the entry-level option. This base model offered a driving range of approximately 224 km (139 miles) and an equivalent fuel economy of 2.5 Le/100 km combined.
Powering the Model S 40 kWh was an electric powertrain generating 235 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were respectable for a midsize sedan of that era, they placed it in the average performance bracket for family cars. The 0-96.6 km/h (0-60 mph) acceleration was achieved in 6.5 seconds.
One of the Model S’s consistent strengths has been its generous cargo capacity. The 2013 model boasted 744 liters (26.3 cubic feet) of space with the rear seats upright, expanding to 1,645 liters (58.1 cubic feet) with the seats folded down. An additional 8.5 liters (0.3 cubic feet) of storage was available in the frunk (front trunk).
In its early iteration, the Model S lagged behind some luxury sedans in terms of advanced safety features. It initially lacked driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, which became standard or optional in competing vehicles.
The Model S 40 kWh was only available for the 2013 model year. Tesla discontinued it due to limited customer demand, as buyers often opted for longer-range versions.
2013-2019 Model S 60 kWh: The Mid-Range Option Emerges
Stepping up from the entry-level 40 kWh, the 60 kWh Model S became the mid-range trim in the early lineup. The larger 60-kWh battery pack extended the driving range to 335 km (208 miles), with a slight increase to 338 km (210 miles) for the 2016 models. The fuel economy equivalent remained at 2.5 Le/100 km combined, mirroring the 40 kWh variant.
The increased battery capacity also allowed for a boost in motor output. The 60 kWh Model S delivered 302 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, reducing the 0-96.6 km/h sprint time to 5.9 seconds. Further enhancements in 2015 increased the output to 315 hp, shaving the acceleration time down to 5.5 seconds.
2013-2016 Model S 85 kWh: Breaking Range Barriers
Positioned as the next level in the early Model S hierarchy was the 85 kWh variant. This model utilized a larger 85-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, pushing the driving range to an unprecedented 426 km (265 miles) – a figure that challenged perceptions of what electric vehicles could achieve at the time. However, the increased energy demand for the larger battery resulted in a slightly higher fuel consumption estimate of 2.6 Le/100 km combined.
The 85 kWh battery also enabled Tesla to further enhance the Model S’s performance, delivering 362 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. This resulted in a 0-96.6 km/h acceleration time of 5.6 seconds. A 2015 update increased the power output to 380 hp, further reducing the sprint time to 5.4 seconds.
2013-2014 Model S Performance: Early Emphasis on Speed
Even in its initial years, the Model S offered a dedicated high-performance variant. The Model S Performance utilized the same 85 kWh battery pack as the standard 85 kWh model, but Tesla tuned the electric motor to produce a more potent 416 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. This resulted in a sports-car-like 0-96.6 km/h acceleration time of just 4.4 seconds.
Despite the significant power increase, the Model S Performance maintained the 426 km (265 miles) driving range of the standard 85 kWh model. Its fuel consumption equivalent also remained consistent at 2.6 Le/100 km.
The original Model S Performance was available only through the 2014 model year, paving the way for even higher-performing iterations in subsequent years.
2015-2016 Model S 90 kWh: Incremental Range and Feature Updates
In 2015, Tesla significantly expanded the Model S lineup, introducing seven new models, starting with the 90 kWh variant. This model featured a 90 kWh battery pack, which Tesla claimed offered a 6% increase in driving range compared to the 85 kWh. However, Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) ratings showed no significant range difference between the 85 kWh and 90 kWh battery packs in real-world testing, both rated at 426 km (265 miles). The fuel consumption rating remained at 2.6 Le/100 km combined.
The Model S 90 kWh maintained the same power output as the later 85 kWh models, with 362 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, and the 0-96.6 km/h sprint time remained at 5.6 seconds.
A key upgrade in the 2015 Model S models was the introduction of more standard advanced safety features. These included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and parking sensors, enhancing both safety and driver convenience.
2015 also marked the debut of Tesla AutoPilot, a groundbreaking partial self-driving system offered as an option. Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, promised future software updates to enable full self-driving capabilities, setting the stage for Tesla’s leadership in autonomous driving technology.
Tesla Model S interior with signature touchscreen interface
2015-2016 Model S 70D: The Dawn of Dual-Motor AWD
2015 was a pivotal year for Tesla as they introduced their dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The Model S 70D became the base AWD model, distinguished by the “D” in its name, which signified dual-motor AWD, while models without the “D” remained rear-wheel drive (RWD) for many years.
The Model S 70D featured a 70 kWh battery pack providing a driving range of up to 386 km (240 miles) and a combined fuel consumption rating of 2.3 Le/100 km.
This dual-motor configuration delivered a combined output of 328 hp, resulting in a 0-96.6 km/h sprint time of 5.2 seconds, showcasing the performance benefits of AWD.
2015-2016 Model S 85D: AWD Enhances Range and Performance
Tesla also integrated the dual-motor AWD system with the existing 85 kWh battery pack to create the Model S 85D variant. This model achieved a slightly improved driving range of 435 km (270 miles) and a fuel consumption estimate of 2.4 Le/100 km.
The primary highlight of the 85D was its enhanced performance. With a combined output of 376 hp, it matched the 70D’s 0-96.6 km/h sprint time of 5.2 seconds while offering superior range.
2015-2016 Model S P85D: Performance Redefined with AWD
Replacing the discontinued original Performance model, Tesla introduced a new line of “P” badged performance models, starting with the Model S P85D. This model retained the 85 kWh battery pack but significantly boosted power output to a staggering 691 hp. This immense power propelled the P85D to 96.6 km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds, entering supercar territory.
The trade-off for this blistering performance was a reduced driving range of 407 km (253 miles) and a slightly increased combined fuel consumption equivalent of 2.5 Le/100 km.
2015-2017 Model S P90D: Ludicrous Mode Unleashed
The Model S P90D maintained the same power output and performance figures as the P85D, but Tesla claimed a 6% increase in range. However, NRCAN data for 2015 did not reflect a range difference between the P85D and P90D.
In 2016, the P90D received a significant performance upgrade with the introduction of “Ludicrous Mode.” In normal mode, the 0-96.6 km/h acceleration was reduced to 3.1 seconds, and engaging Ludicrous Mode further dropped it to an astonishing 2.8 seconds, rivaling the acceleration of hypercars. The late-2016 Model S refresh also improved the P90D’s range to 435 km (270 miles).
2016 Model S 70 kWh: Expanding Powertrain Options
The 2016 model year witnessed another expansion of the Model S lineup, including a new 70 kWh RWD Model S variant. This model produced 315 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-96.6 km/h sprint in 5.5 seconds. Its range was rated at 377 km (234 miles), with a combined fuel consumption equivalent of 2.6 Le/100 km.
In 2016, Tesla also began offering its “Full Self-Driving Capability” as an optional upgrade, though it remained under development and underwent numerous updates in subsequent years.
2016-2018 Model S 75 kWh: Replacing the 70 kWh Battery
Later in 2016, Tesla replaced the 70 kWh battery pack with a 75 kWh pack in the RWD Model S, increasing the range to 401 km (249 miles). This upgrade also slightly improved the fuel consumption equivalent to 2.4 Le/100 km combined.
The power output and acceleration remained unchanged from the 70 kWh RWD model, at 315 hp, 325 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.5-second 0-96.6 km/h sprint time.
2016-2017 Model S 60D: AWD for the 60 kWh Model
In 2016, Tesla extended the dual-motor AWD system to the 60 kWh versions of the Model S with the introduction of the Model S 60D. This model delivered a combined 328 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a 0-96.6 km/h sprint time of 5.2 seconds.
The Model S 60D offered a driving range of 351 km (218 miles) and a fuel consumption rating of 2.3 Le/100 km.
2016-2017 Model S 75D: AWD and Enhanced Range
2016 also saw the introduction of a dual-motor AWD variant paired with the 75 kWh battery pack, the Model S 75D. This model mirrored the 60D’s power output but benefited from the larger battery capacity, pushing the range to 417 km (259 miles). The fuel consumption remained the same as the 60D model.
2016-2017 Model S 90D: Range and Performance Gains
Late in 2016, Tesla released a refreshed Model S 90D, replacing both the 85D and earlier 90D variants. This updated model achieved a significant range increase to 473 km (294 miles) and improved fuel consumption to 2.3 Le/100km combined.
The refreshed 90D also received a power boost, delivering 417 hp and 485 lb-ft of torque, which reduced the 0-96.6 km/h sprint time to 4.2 seconds.
2016-2019 Model S P100D: The Ultimate Range and Performance Combo
Late in 2016, the Model S P100D arrived in Canada, introducing a massive 100 kWh battery pack to the lineup. This pushed the total driving range to an impressive 507 km (315 miles), making range anxiety a distant concern for many drivers. The fuel consumption rating was 2.4 Le/100 km.
Underneath the skin, the P100D delivered a formidable 503 hp and could accelerate from 0-96.6 km/h in under three seconds, firmly establishing itself as one of the quickest production cars in the world.
Mid-Life Updates: Refining the Model S (2017-2021)
The Model S continued to evolve through its mid-generation years, with Tesla focusing on further range improvements, performance enhancements, and streamlining the model lineup.
2017-2019 Model S 100D: Prioritizing Long Range
In 2017, Tesla introduced the Model S 100D, essentially a detuned version of the P100D. It retained the dual-motor AWD system but with a focus on maximizing range rather than outright performance. The 100D accelerated from 0-96.6 km/h in 4.1 seconds, slightly slower than the P100D. However, the trade-off was a remarkable 539 km (335 miles) driving range, exceeding the P100D by 22 km.
2019 Model S Standard Range: Simplified Naming and Lineup
In 2019, Tesla discontinued the 60 kWh and 75 kWh models and introduced a new naming convention based on range and performance. The Model S Standard Range emerged, featuring dual-motor AWD with a 382-hp front motor and a 260-hp rear motor, combining for a 4.2-second 0-96.6 km/h sprint time.
The Standard Range model offered a 459 km (285 miles) driving range and a combined fuel consumption rating of 2.2 Le/100 km. This trim was short-lived, lasting only for the 2019 model year.
2019-2021 Model S Long Range: Range Extends Further
Replacing the outgoing 100D, the Model S Long Range also featured dual-motor AWD and a total output of 541 horsepower. This resulted in a sub-four-second 0-96.6 km/h acceleration time.
The Long Range trim boasted an impressive 595 km (370 miles) range on a single charge and a combined fuel consumption rating of 2.1 Le/100 km. In 2020, the range was further increased to 600 km (373 miles).
2019-2021 Model S Performance: Relentless Pursuit of Speed
The Model S Performance continued the legacy of the P100D, maintaining its focus on extreme performance. It achieved a blistering 0-96.6 km/h sprint time of just 2.4 seconds.
Equipped with 19-inch wheels, the Model S Performance offered a 555 km (345 miles) range and a 2.3 Le/100 km combined fuel consumption rating. Opting for 21-inch wheels reduced the range to 523 km (325 miles) and slightly increased fuel consumption to 2.4 Le/100 km.
2020-2021 Model S Long Range Plus: Optimized for Maximum Miles
Adding another layer to the lineup, Tesla introduced the Long Range Plus model in 2020. Early versions of this model achieved an exceptional 629 km (391 miles) range and a 2 Le/100 km combined fuel consumption rating, representing the peak of range optimization for the Model S during this period.
The Long Range Plus shared the same powertrain and performance characteristics as the standard Long Range model, with the focus solely on maximizing driving distance.
The Modern Era: Plaid and Streamlined (2021-Present)
The latest iterations of the Tesla Model S have seen a further focus on performance and a simplification of the model lineup, culminating in the groundbreaking Plaid variant.
2021-2023 Model S Plaid: The Tri-Motor Hyper-EV
In 2021, Tesla unleashed the Model S Plaid, a true game-changer. This tri-motor variant boasts an astounding 1,020 horsepower and a roughly two-second 0-96 km/h sprint time, solidifying its status as the world’s quickest production car. It also achieves a top speed of 322 km/h (200 mph).
The Model S Plaid doesn’t compromise on range, offering a remarkable 630 km (391 miles) range with 19-inch wheels. This range reduces to 560 km (348 miles) with optional 21-inch wheels. Combined fuel consumption ratings are 2 Le/100 km with 19-inch wheels and 2.3 Le/100 km with 21-inch wheels.
2022-2023 Model S: The Streamlined Base Model
In 2022, Tesla streamlined the Model S lineup to just two core variants, with the base model simply named “Model S.” This model offers a 652 km (405 miles) driving range and a combined fuel consumption rating of 2 Le/100km.
The base Model S comes standard with dual-motor AWD and 670 hp, enabling a 0-96.6 km/h acceleration time of just over three seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
2023 Model S Standard Range: A Brief Return for Affordability
In August 2023, Tesla briefly reintroduced the Model S Standard Range as a more budget-friendly option in both the US and Canada. This model featured dual-motor AWD, 670 hp, and a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.8 seconds. It offered an estimated range of 515 km (320 miles) on 19-inch wheels and 483 km (300 miles) on 21-inch wheels, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 2.1 Le/100 km.
However, Tesla discontinued the Model S Standard Range just two weeks after its release due to strategic lineup adjustments. A limited number of units were sold, making it a rare find in the used car market.
2024 Model S Pricing Update: Premium Positioning
In December 2024, Tesla adjusted prices for the Model S in both the U.S. and Canada, reflecting its premium positioning in the EV market. The Model S AWD base model now starts at $110,990 CAD, while the high-performance Model S Plaid costs $131,990 CAD in Canada.
Current Model S Lineup (December 2024): Two Choices
As of December 2024, Tesla’s Model S lineup in Canada consists of two distinct models:
Model S AWD
- Dual-motor AWD
- 670 hp
- 0-100 km/h: 3.2 seconds
- Range: Up to 647 km (402 miles) EPA est.
- Starting Price: $110,990 CAD
Model S Plaid
- Tri-motor AWD
- Over 1,000 hp
- 0-100 km/h: 2.1 seconds
- Range: Up to 560 km (348 miles) EPA est.
- Starting Price: $131,990 CAD
These current models represent Tesla’s commitment to high-performance electric vehicles, offering long range, rapid acceleration, and luxurious features.
Tesla Model S with panoramic roof and aerodynamic design
Finding Your Ideal Used Tesla Model S at Clutch
If a Tesla Model S has caught your eye, but you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option compared to a brand-new model, exploring the used market is an excellent strategy. Clutch offers a wide selection of used Tesla Model S vehicles.
Every used Tesla Model S available through Clutch undergoes a rigorous 210-point inspection and reconditioning process to ensure it meets high standards of quality and reliability. To provide added peace of mind, Clutch includes an optional 10-Day Money-Back Guarantee on every vehicle. This allows you to experience your used Tesla Model S risk-free and return or exchange it within 10 days if it doesn’t perfectly match your expectations.
Browse Clutch’s inventory of quality used Tesla vehicles today to discover the right Model S for your needs. Clutch also simplifies the purchase process with online financing options and trade-in appraisals, making your car buying experience seamless and convenient.
