SYDNEY: Tesla has announces the price and features of Model S all-electric luxury sedan for Australia, the Model S P85D as the high-performance flagship of the range. Able to accelerate to 100km/h in just 3.3 seconds, the P85D shames its rivals from AMG, Audi RS and BMW M.
At the other end of the scale, the entry-level Model S 60 has been dropped. The Model S 70D that replaces it has more power and more range, but costs roughly $15,000 more.
Specification levels have also been changed for 2015, with satellite navigation, previously an option, now standard on all models.
POWERTRAINS
The range now kicks off with the Model S 70D, which receives a 70kWh battery pack and and two motors split between the front and rear axle.
Able to drive for 442km on a single charge, the 245kW Model S 70D can also sprint to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds and run to a top speed of 225km/h.
In the middle of the range is the Model S 85, which carries over with no mechanical changes. Now the only RWD Model available in Australia, the 85’s 85kWh battery can power it for 502km on a single charge.
Despite having a 270kW motor, without the extra traction of a driven front axle the Model S 85 is actually slightly slower than the AWD Model S 70, hitting 100km/h from rest in 5.6 seconds. Top speed is 225km/h
Complementing the Model S 85 is the new Model S 85D, an AWD derivative that boasts an identical 502km range but, thanks to the extra output of its 315kW motors, can rocket to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds on its way to a 250km/h top speed.
But while the 85D’s performance is no doubt eye-wideningly fast, it’s got nothing on the P85D.
With a combined output of 515kW (350kW from the rear motor, 165 kW from the front motor), this AWD flagship can reach 100km/h in a supercar rivalling 3.3 seconds.
To give that number some context, the Mercedes-AMG E 63 gets to 100km/h in 4.1 seconds. The BMW M5 achieves the same in 4.2 seconds.
All Model S variants are equipped with variable-strength regenerative braking, double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.
Adjustable air suspension is offered on every model, albeit as a $3200 option.
If you’ve noticed that we haven’t mentioned anything about a gearbox, that’s because there isn’t one – each motor directly drives the axle it’s attached to.
FEATURES
After drawing criticism for low levels of standard equipment, Tesla has bulked up the Model S’ spec sheet to improve its value-for-money proposition.
As such prices have take a slight rise, but thankfully features like satellite navigation are now standard on every Model S variant.
Heated and power-folding wing mirrors, keyless entry, electrochromatic mirrors and power front seats with memory, all previously features in the optional Tech Pack, are now also standard gear across the Model S lineup.
Other notable standard features include internet connectivity, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking and a blind spot monitor.
Six option packs are offered, and are available on every Model.
The Autopilot Convenience Features pack adds adaptive cruise control, active lane-keep assist, self-parking and automatic highbeam for $3200, while air suspension and a 12-speaker premium audio system also cost $3200 each.
A more upmarket interior finish can be had with the $3900 Premium Package, which brings Nappa leather upholstery, Alcantara headlining, a powered tailgate, illuminated door handles and interior accent lighting.
Those wanting more comfort for their passengers can also opt for the Executive Rear Seats, which replaces the three-position rear bench with two individual heated seats and a centre armrest. It costs $3900.
Finally, the Subzero weather package features heated windshield washer nozzles, windshield wiper defrosters, a heated steering wheel and three-position rear seat heaters.
All models are availble to order, with retail pricing as follows:
- Model S 70D – $102,400
- Model S 85 – $109,400
- Model S 85D – $115,800
- Model S P85D – $141,600
