The 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid is one of the quickest cars money can buy. While it costs over USD 90,000, this is a fraction of other cars with similar performance levels. Recently, I got a chance to explore the high-performance EV in Stealth Gray, which is its only no-cost color option. Here’s my experience with the new Model S Plaid:
Design
The 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid may not be fresh on the market, but I think its sleek and sporty exterior is still appealing. I would’ve liked some more styling differences from the regular 2024 Tesla Model S, though. Currently, its exclusive exterior features are just a spoiler and a Plaid badge on the liftgate.
Interior & Features
The 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid has a futuristic and minimalist interior that aligns well with its character. I like the slim dashboard, and the low-key instrument cluster. The snappy 17-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which offers excellent resolution, can be tilted left or right, and the curvy center console.
The 2024 Model S Plaid includes a traditional steering wheel, with an option to upgrade to a yoke-style steering for an additional USD 1,000. This particular unit has the yoke steering, and I think no other element of the interior contributes to the futuristic vibe as much as it does. That said, I prefer the traditional steering wheel for its ease of use and practicality.
Another expensive option in this 2024 Model S Plaid is a Cream color scheme worth USD 2,000. It’s a combination of beige and black, and I felt that the former gives the cabin a rich look. I like the carbon fiber inlays in the dashboard, center console, and door panels, as they remind me I’m sitting in a high-performance car.
Specifications
The Tesla Model S Plaid sports three motors that generate a whopping 1,020 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds (with the first foot of rollout subtracted) and achieve an impressive top speed of 200 mph. Yet, it delivers an EPA-estimated range of 359 miles. Opting for the 21-inch Arachnid wheels, instead of the standard 19-inch Tempest wheels (seen on the Stealth Gray unit here), reduces the range from 359 to 320 miles. Both wheels come wrapped with summer tires for maximum performance. The optional wheels cost an additional USD 4,500.
Price
The 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid retails at USD 89,990 (excl. USD 1,390 destination fee and USD 250 order fee).
Also See: White 2024 Tesla Model S blends clean design with sporty styling
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 16 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading CEOs and vehicle developers from around the world.
