2017 Tesla Model S P90D

High Performance Wolf in Energy Friendly Sheep’s Clothing
Ask a Tesla company rep about the model S, and their first thought is the innovative, 100% electric all-wheel drive, 270-mile range advanced technology engine. Ask an enthusiast and the story might be a bit different. One look at the styling, inside and out, and a test drive moving you from 0 to 60 in a blazing 2.8 seconds (Ludicrous mode)— and all you can think about is the performance.

Model S P90D Features:

For 2016 and 2017 the S model P85D has been upgraded to the new P90D. Tesla has P85Ds in inventory but all models built in 2016 and beyond now belong to the updated P90D class. The upgrade includes a beefier 90 kWh battery and 6% increase in range. And although Tesla has undertaken the task of building more charging stations across the country, the 6% additional range will surely be of interest to electric vehicle buyers.


The P90D is loaded with advanced technologies beyond the battery-powered engine. Safety features (some optional) include: adaptive lighting, which improves visibility in curves by turning the LED headlamps as you steer; medical-grade HEPA filtration of cabin recirculating air which removes 99.97% of allergens, bacteria and other contaminants; automatic steering with traffic aware cruise control; and, Autopilot which includes digital control of motors, brakes, and steering to help avoid collisions from the front and sides, and prevents the car from wandering off the road.
The P90D offers a standard dual-motor power source at each axle assembly. From the underside, you’ll see that the front and rear axle assemblies have their own power module which —compared to conventional all-wheel drive vehicles—provides improved traction control and acceleration.

A Driver’s Car:

A sumptuously appointed cabin includes luxurious options such as a 7-speaker/200-watt audio system with two USB inputs, and a 17-inch touchscreen. The touchscreen controls climate, sunroof, radio/internet/Bluetooth, backup camera, and navigation with a single touch. Standard trim packages include cloth and faux-leather seats while Nappa Leather is available. Plus let’s face it; from the outside the car is gorgeous. You are going to get some looks. A sleek new front fascia with sexy, reshaped headlights replaces the old grille from previous models and the hunky 21” wheels are sure to impress any luxury/performance car enthusiast.

Model S P90D Performance:

Here is the wolf part of that, “High Performance Wolf in Energy Friendly Sheep’s Clothing” intro!
In addition to the astonishing 0 to 60 in 2.8 seconds acceleration, KBB, ranks the Tesla S Model #9 overall in Horsepower on an impressive list of supermuscle which includes the Maserati Ghibli and the Mercedes-Benz CLS Class. Tesla is the only all-electric vehicle in the top ten HP list on KBB.

All in all, if you have the wherewithal to afford a high-performance luxury car, the Tesla model S P90D is worth adding to your comparison-shopping list. The Tesla factory and dealerships are eager to get you to take a test drive. The combination of safety features, luxury styling, technological innovations and contribution to keeping carbon emissions to a minimum may make the Tesla Model S P90D your next car purchase.

Editor’s rating

4Overall5Design5Features5Styles3Easy of use1Price
*Note: not all features mentioned are standard. Available upgrades and options are described.