Skip advert
Advertisement

Tesla Model S 85D review

Dual motors give the cutting-edge Tesla Model S electric saloon 4WD but charging it is still an issue.

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Find your Tesla Model S
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Adding four-wheel drive to the Model S hasn’t really changed 
its character, but that’s no bad thing, as it still feels like a rapid executive car that’s a rolling showcase for Tesla’s cutting-edge technology. The extra grip is a bonus in slippery conditions, while the on-board tech adds extra safety and convenience features that automatically upgrade. This latest version cements the model S as the most complete and appealing electric car on sale.

Advertisement - Article continues below

It’s been less than a year since the Tesla Model S went on sale in the UK, but that hasn’t stopped the brand giving its upmarket saloon an update. Look closely at the tailgate, and you’ll see a D badge has now been added, which denotes Tesla’s new dual-motor configuration. 

An electric motor at each axle means the Model S now has four-wheel drive, while the latest software updates have added some cutting-edge safety features, too.

From the outside, the car’s clean, sporty design remains intact, while the spacious cabin is still dominated by the huge 17-inch touchscreen on the centre console. And just like before, Tesla’s smart keyless entry system means you don’t need to press a starter button or even release a handbrake to get going. Simply put the car into drive, and it pulls away in near-silence.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

Model S

2016 Tesla

Model S

69,380 milesAutomaticElectric

Cash £26,135
View Model S
Model S

2019 Tesla

Model S

32,883 milesAutomaticElectric

Cash £31,100
View Model S
Model S

2016 Tesla

Model S

64,500 milesAutomaticElectric

Cash £19,994
View Model S
Model S

2013 Tesla

Model S

43,090 milesAutomaticElectric

Cash £18,995
View Model S

Best electric cars to buy now

There aren’t many clues to the extra electric motor up front, although you are aware of some additional whirring ahead of you. Then, at higher speeds, wind and tyre noise takes over.

The 85D’s 422bhp power output is split 50:50 between the two electric motors, and as there’s no propshaft, you can’t bias the 600Nm of torque to the front or rear. 

In reality, that’s not much of an issue, and the Model S sprints from 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds. Full blistering power is available as soon as you press the throttle, too.

While acceleration is searing, the driving experience is geared towards comfort rather than sharpness. The batteries are mounted low in the chassis, so the car feels agile and there’s lots of grip. However, the suspension is better suited to absorbing bumps than keeping body roll in check, while the steering doesn’t deliver much feedback. Our car featured the £2,100 optional air-suspension, which can adjust ride height and makes it a great high-speed cruiser.

The 85D also marks the introduction of Autopilot, a system which adds a raft of electronics and sensors that will bring autonomous driving closer to reality. 

It’s currently a £2,100 option, with blind spot warning, lane keeping and automatic emergency braking. But future software updates will add auto lane changing witha tap of the indicator stalk, self-parking and even self-steering, as the electronics monitor traffic, road signs and surroundings.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Senior test editor

Dean has been part of the Auto Express team for more than 20 years, and has worked across nearly all departments, starting on magazine production, then moving to road tests and reviews. He's our resident van expert, but covers everything from scooters and motorbikes to supercars and consumer products.

New & used car deals

Tesla Model S

Tesla Model S

RRP £74,415Used from £16,657
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,261 off RRP*Used from £13,383
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £18,725Avg. savings £4,199 off RRP*Used from £15,337
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,513 off RRP*Used from £5,500
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Chinese cars can’t match their European rivals when it comes to engineering
Opinion - Shanghai Auto Show

Chinese cars can’t match their European rivals when it comes to engineering

This new brand of cars might have battery tech on their side, but European buyers want much more than that
Opinion
25 Apr 2025
New electric car MoT tests could be coming to the UK
Tesla Model X on two-post inspection ramp

New electric car MoT tests could be coming to the UK

New technology and driver assistance systems require changes to annual testing, says EC
News
25 Apr 2025
Buying a modern used car for under £10k is almost impossible
Opinion - £10k used cars

Buying a modern used car for under £10k is almost impossible

Phil McNamara discovers that it’s harder than ever to find a good-value car at the affordable end of the market
Opinion
24 Apr 2025