2023 Tesla Model S Is a Bottom-of-the-List Luxury EV, Says KBB
The 2023 Tesla Model S is the latest iteration of the electric vehicle (EV) automaker’s flagship sedan, and it’s improved over time. However, not every critic prefers the luxury EV model to competitors like the 2023 Audi e-tron GT and Porsche Taycan. In fact, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) says the Model S gets the No. 7 spot on the list of the best luxury electric cars, well behind its rivals.
The 2023 Tesla Model S is at the bottom of KBB’s list of the best luxury electric cars
That’s right; the 2023 Tesla Model S made the list of the best luxury electric cars, but just barely. It secured the No. 7 spot on KBB’s list, behind the 2023 Audi e-tron GT and hard-to-look-at BMW i7. Evaluators gave the Tesla luxury EV model a 4.1 out of 5.0 overall, which is quite a bit less than the list-topping 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE and EQS and their score of 4.5.
The following 2023 model year EVs made up the rankings, starting with the Mercedes-Benz models:
- Mercedes-Benz EQE
- Mercedes-Benz EQS
- Porsche Taycan
- Genesis Electrified G80
- BMW i7
- Audi e-tron GT
- Tesla Model S
Of course, the Model S has many redeeming qualities, including excellent range and seating for five passengers. Moreover, the Tesla model’s performance is nothing short of supercar-esque. Still, some critics fault the Tesla EV for its minimalist interior aesthetic, while others complain about the yoke steering wheel option.
What are the different levels of the Tesla Model S?
The Tesla Model S offers just two trim levels for the 2023 model year. First, the Model S is a dual-motor all-wheel drive application with the longest single-charge range in the automaker’s lineup. On the other hand, the Model S Plaid is the range-topping trim and the fastest vehicle in Tesla’s offerings.
The 2023 Tesla Model S starts at around $94,990 for the entry-level trim. That’s less than the Audi e-tron GT, BMW i7, and Mercedes-Benz EQS. However, the base model Tesla EV is more expensive than the Genesis Electrified G80 and Porsche Taycan. Furthermore, the range-topping Plaid starts at about $114,990, or about $20,000 more than the base.
How far can a Tesla S go on a full charge?
One of the 2023 Tesla Model S’ best qualities is its single-charge range, especially in the base trim. Specifically, the Model S can cover around 405 miles on a full charge. Of course, the driving range drops a bit with the performance-oriented Plaid trim.
The Plaid trim gets an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimate of around 396 miles on a single charge. However, the Model S produces 670 horsepower from its fully-electric dual-motor application, while the tri-motor Plaid makes a ludicrous 1,020 horsepower.
Is the Tesla Model S worth it?
The 2023 Tesla Model S marries range, performance, and practicality in a luxury EV. However, it’s not alone in the segment anymore. Luxury electric cars from automakers like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche are serious competitors. Still, the Model S is worth it for fans who want a posh EV.
Should the Model S have scored higher on KBB’s list? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
