2022 Tesla Model S Electric

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Rating7.7

Ranked #3 in 

Electric Sedan
Write Review
$104,990 - $135,990
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on June 10, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Long driving range

Build quality could have been better

New 1020-hp Plaid trim

Exhilarating Performance

Seems overpriced

Refreshed interior and exterior

Modern design

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto still missing

New yoke-style steering wheel

Advanced tech features

New alloy wheel design

Specs & Features

$104,990

price

670 hp

horsepower

TBD

torque

1-speed Automatic

transmission

electric AWD 1-Speed

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2022 Tesla Model S comes with a handful of changes this time. It has received a redesigned front and rear bumper while the interior has also been slightly redone with the highlight being the yoke steering wheel. Rounding up the updates is the new Plaid trim which has a touted under two seconds 0-60 MPH timing and covers a quarter-mile in under ten seconds. The Plaid trim replaces the Performance trim of the 2020 Model S. While just like every year full self-driving capabilities are offered as a paid option.



The 2022 Model S is offered in two trims Long Range and Lucid. The Long Range offers 400 plus miles range and a 0-60 MPH time of 3.1 seconds. The prices for the 2022 Model S start at $94,990 while the top-of-the-line Plaid trim will be offered at around $129,990. When it was launched, the Model S was without any direct rival but with time manufacturers have caught up and the 2022 Model S now competes with the likes of Porsche Taycan 4S, Audi E-Tron GT, and the Lucid Air Dream Edition.

Buying Advice

All the Tesla Model S trims get the best features available in the industry. The pricing is, however, too aggressive, and to the fact that it is almost double when you compare it with the base trim. As aforementioned, the base trim Long Range offers 412 miles of long-range, and if you are looking for efficiency rather than power then it is a good buy.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The 2022 Tesla Model S is for the ones who want both performance and economy under one roof. The Model S has been offered by Tesla since 2012 as an executive EV. The Long Range models became quite popular which led to the discontinuation of the entry-level models. For the 2022 model year, it is back with new options and an updated design. The changes are made to the hardware and the exterior. The much-awaited Plaid trim is coming with greater performance to replace the ongoing Performance trim. Previously, the Model S had a dual-motor powertrain whereas now it offers a tri-motor setup with dual rear motors, one for each wheel, and a single motor at the front making it an AWD vehicle. With the looming threat from the likes of Lucid, Porsche, and Audi is the Model S still competitive enough? Let's find out in the review below.

 

Features
8.0/10

The 2022 Tesla Model S electric sedan will be offered in two trims namely Long Range and Plaid. The prices for the 2022 Model S will range between $94,990 and $129,990. The more aggressive Model S Plaid, which will have 1020 hp at its disposal is the highlight this year. The new Model S gets improved aerodynamic wheels along with reduced weight and maximizing the range with its regenerative braking efficiency. The main difference between the two trims is highlighted in their power and performance.

The Long Range trim, which starts at $94,990, has a higher 405 miles range but remains behind in terms of performance. Whereas, the Model S Plaid is for better performance with 0-60 MPH times of just 1.99 seconds while it has a range of 396 miles. All the Model S come with front and rear parking sensors, forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning system, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot monitor. 

While Tesla's Full Self-Driving Capabilities is a paid option. If you opt for this $10,000 option you get features like Summon mode, semi-autonomous driving, automatic parking, auto lane change, and traffic light and stop sign recongnition.

Trim

Long Range

Plaid

MSRP

$94,990

$129,990

Key Features

All-LED exterior lights

Adds or upgrades to 'Long Range'

 

Adaptive air suspension

Carbon Fibre Spoiler

 

17-inch touchscreen infotainment w/ 22-speaker sound system

Ludicrous Mode

 

Heated front and rear seats and steering wheel

Tri-Motor setup

 

Power liftgate

Tri-Zone Climate Control

  Wireless smartphone charging pad  

Fuel Economy
9.9/10

The Long Range trim of the 2022 Tesla Model S offers 124 MPGe in the city, 115 MPGe on the highway, and 120 MPGe Combined. The 98 kWh battery is capable of fast charging and takes 1 hour 15 mins to fully charge on the Tesla superfast charge station. It provides a total mile range of 405 miles. The 1,020 hp Plaid trim takes the range to 396 miles.

Models

2022 Tesla Model S

2021 Porsche Taycan 4S

2022 Audi E-Tron GT

2022 Lucid Air Pure

MPGe (City)

124

68

78

110

MPGe (Highway)

115

71

77

111

MPGe (Combined)

120

69

78

111

Battery Capacity (kWh)

98.0

83.7

93.4

112.0

Range (miles)

405

203

238

451

The Taycan 4S has an 83.7 kWh battery pack as standard which offers 203 miles of range. The Audi E-Tron GT has a 93.4 kWh battery that charges within 23 minutes to provide 80% battery capacity and offer up to 238 miles of range. Threatening Model S' supremacy is the Lucid Air Dream Edition with an EPA estimated range of 451 miles.

Interior
8.0/10

Tesla is known for its advanced interior design that can put even top luxury brands to shame. The futuristic cabin with a fighter-jet like yoke-steering gives you a heads up about the performance underneath. The dynamic ergonomics of the 2022 Model S are unique although using yoke-steering is a learning curve. The cabin is wrapped in premium simulated leather upholstery with metal-look and wood accents to provide a one-of-a-kind design. You have three interior color options to choose from. The front seats offer 8-way power adjustments. The rear row has plenty of room for three people with triple headrests. 

The seat can be folded down to enhance the cargo space. There are in total 3 screens inside the cabin including the digital driver's cluster for real-time information with navigation, 17-inch infotainment for entertainment and convenience, and a rear-seat center-mounted display for in-car gaming with a wireless console. Tesla has given a 22-speaker sound system for playing audio. That said, the absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is sorely felt. While smartphone integration is available through Bluetooth and four USB-C ports.

Models

2022 Tesla Model S

2021 Porsche Taycan 4S

2022 Audi E-Tron GT

2022 Lucid Air Pure

Seating capacity

5

4

5

5

Front row (Headroom/ Shoulder room/ Legroom) in inches

38.8/ 57.7/ 42.7

N/A

39.4/ 56.4/ 41.9

N/A

Rear row (Headroom/ Shoulder room/ Legroom) in inches

35.3/ 55.0/ 35.4

N/A

36.5/ 53.8/ 32.2

N/A

Cargo capacity (cubic feet)

28.0

17.2 9.2 23.0

As compared to the rivals, the Tesla Model S has an advanced cabin. The Porsche Taycan 4S has a more sporty interior focused on driving. If we talk about the Audi E-Tron GT, it has a lavish interior as well as various features for you. The Lucid Air has the most advanced interior with a 35-inch glass cockpit display and a Tesla-like center-mounted display. As for the cargo capacity, the Model S followed by the Lucid Air takes the lead offering 28 and 23 cubic feet of space.

Interior Features:

  • Heated front and rear seats
  • Power-adjustable front seats
  • Heated and power-adjustable steering wheel
  • Simulated leather upholstery
  • Wireless device charging pad
  • HEPA filtration system to prevent viruses and bacteria

Exterior
7.0/10

Tesla has a simple and clear design statement across its lineup of cars. The aerodynamic design of the Model S has been boasted by the manufacturer for the lowest drag coefficient ever. The Model S is the sleekest production electric car. For 2022 MY, the design is quite different from the actual Model S that has been around for a while now. The mid-cycle refresh has noteworthy upgrades. The design lines somehow seem sharper and the sloping roof design is now better than ever.

The front fascia is updated with fresh-looking bumpers and thinner LED headlamps. The front grille is now wafer-thin. The Model S has ditched the massive bumper air vents with a smaller vent and sleek fog lamps. The rear fascia gets new tail lamps as well. With the new 19 inch wheels, the Model S is the best-looking electric sedan. 

Models

2022 Tesla Model S

2021 Porsche Taycan 4S

2022 Audi E-Tron GT

2022 Lucid Air Pure

Curb weight (lbs)

4,561

4,771

5,060

5,200

Length (inches)

195.7

195.4

196.4

195.9

Width (inches)

77.3

77.5

77.3

76.3

Height (inches)

56.9

54.3

55.0

55.5

Ground clearance (inches)

4.6

N/A

NA

NA

Wheelbase (inches)

116.5

114.2

114.2

116.5

Talking about rivals, the Porsche Taycan 4S is a performance-focused machine with a compact design. The Audi E-Tron GT has a lot to offer with its unique design elements and aggressive looks. The Lucid Air has the most futuristic design and is dimensionally neck-to-neck with the Model S thus making it its closest competitor.

Exterior Features:

  • 3 Position Dynamic LED turning lights
  • Hands-Free parallel parking and summoning features
  • LED cornering lights
  • LED Fog lights
  • Adaptive LED Headlights
  • Wiper Blade De Foresters
  • Lighted Door Handles

Safety
7.0/10

Since the beginning, the Tesla Model S has been touted as a safe EV and has made headlines for receiving the top score by NHTSA in its rollover mitigation test. But it hasn't been fully crash-tested by the NHTSA yet. The same goes for the IIHS, it has only rated the 2021 Model S for front crash prevention and headlights. For the former, it received a 'Superior' rating and for the latter, it got the lowest rating of 'Poor'. We expect the same scores for the 2022 Model S as it sees no mechanical or safety feature change for this year.

Safety Features: 

  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Blind-spot monitor
  • Lane departure warning and lane-keep assist
  • Forward collision mitigation
  • Available full self driving capability

Competition
5.0/10

2022 Tesla Model S vs 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S

The Tesla Model S is an advanced electric vehicle that offers the latest tech for your convenience and entertainment. The futuristic cockpit is Tesla's USP. Other than performance, it offers theater-like entertainment for you.

The Porsche Taycan 4S is all about performance and ride quality that is different from Tesla. If you want an all-in-one machine, the Model S is right for you. For a performance nerd, the Taycan is a clear choice.

2022 Tesla Model S vs 2022 Audi E-Tron GT

The Tesla Model S offers the longest range and amazing power output. The Audi E-Tron GT is a new entry in the segment which has to go a long way to match Tesla.

However, it has a lavish cabin, numerous features, and a better luxury electric vehicle experience. The Model S seems simple as compared to the E-Tron GT until Tesla unleashes its power.

2022 Tesla Model S vs 2022 Lucid Air Dream Edition

Tesla has a nice clientele as the Model S has sold 100,000 units already. Competing with it is the Lucid Air which is a whole new concept in the electric vehicle segment.

The Lucid Air seems promising with its Tesla-like driving range and performance numbers. Still, the Model S is slightly ahead. But Tesla should expect fierce competition.

Final Verdict
8.0/10

The Tesla Model S was introduced as a full-size electric sedan a few years back when EVs weren't cool. Even after years, it is one of the most loved electric vehicles in the industry for its luxury comfort, dynamics, features, and performance. For 2022, Tesla has bigger plans for the Model S with Plaid trim levels which is capable of taking down hypercars with its 1,100 hp of power. Thus until Lucid Air kicks off with mass production the Tesla Model S will reign the segment.

Trims

    Base
    $104,990 onwards
    • 19-inch gray aluminum Wheels
    • 2 - 1st row LCD monitor
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Dual zone automatic front air conditioning
    • Fixed glass Sunroof
    • FM/HD/Satellite
    • Front Fog/driving lights
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Rear air conditioning w/ separate controls
    • Remote keyless entry
    Plaid
    $135,990 onwards
    • Engine: electric AWD 1A
    • Horsepower: 1020 hp hp
    • Torque: TBD
    • 0-60 mph: 1.98 sec
    • Top Speed: 200 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 120 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$104,990- $135,990

Engine

electric

Rating

7.67

Horsepower

670 hp

Torque

330 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

Capacity

5

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480 hp

406 lb-ft

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7.78

425 hp

475 lb.-ft.

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7.45

271 hp

310 lb.-ft.

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231 hp

243 lb.-ft.

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7.7

329 hp

417 lb.-ft.

5

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2022 Tesla Model S Electric vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    3.16 sec10.6 sec155 mph
    4.44 sec--
    4.5 sec12.7 sec127 mph
    5.5 sec--
    5.9 sec--
    6.8 sec--

    2022 Tesla Model S Electric vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      SourceCompare
      124 mpg115 mpg120 mpg
      150 mpg133 mpg134 mpg
      127 mpg117 mpg122 mpg
      113 mpg100 mpg107 mpg
      97 mpg97 mpg97 mpg

      2022 Tesla Model S Electric vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        197.7 in.78.2 in.56.3 in.4.6 in.116.5 in. -
        207.3 in.83.7 in.59.6 in.4.9 in.126.4 in. -

        2022 Genesis G80 Electric Sedan

        Ranked #3

        196.7 in.75.8 in.57.7 in.5.5 in.118.5 in.
        195.9 in.76.3 in.55.4 in.4.9 in.116.5 in. -
        187 in.75.6 in.63.9 in.6.6 in.113.8 in.
        184.8 in.72.8 in.56.8 in.5.5 in.113.2 in. -

        2022 Tesla Model S Electric vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          25 cu.ft.105.4 cu.ft.61.4 cu.ft.
          22 cu.ft.103 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.
          16.1 cu.ft.101 cu.ft.47.6 cu.ft.
          34.3 cu.ft.-76.2 cu.ft.
          14.3 cu.ft.86 cu.ft.39.9 cu.ft.
          19.8 cu.ft.97 cu.ft.-

          2022 Tesla Model S Electric vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            61.4 cu.ft.25 cu.ft.61.4 cu.ft.220 ft.
            83.1 cu.ft.16.1 cu.ft.47.6 cu.ft.-
            -19.8 cu.ft.--
            103.3 cu.ft.22 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.-
            76.2 cu.ft.34.3 cu.ft.76.2 cu.ft.-
            9.2 cu.ft.14.3 cu.ft.39.9 cu.ft.286 ft.

            2022 Tesla Model S Electric vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              -891 lbs.4561 lbs.
              3500 lbs.886 lbs.4416 lbs.
              2000 lbs.925 lbs.4400 lbs.
              -1047 lbs.5203 lbs. -
              -1007 lbs.3648 lbs.
              -1072 lbs.5597 lbs. -

              2022 Tesla Model S Electric Sedan Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              0

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              0

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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