Tesla Model S 2012–2016 car dimensions: 4978 mm long, 1964 mm wide and 1435 mm high. Unladen weight is 2,108 kg. Boot space with the seats up is 745 litres.
The cabin centers on a standard 17-inch vertical capacitive touchscreen that handles media, navigation, climate, and most vehicle controls, with dual USB ports, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard. Basic cruise control is standard. A reversing camera is standard (standard-definition base, high-definition with Tech Package). Parking sensors were optional early and became standard later. Automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane-keep assist arrived mid-generation with Autopilot hardware (from late 2014) and required the optional Autopilot package for full function.
Rear cargo volume is 745 litres with seats up and 1645 litres with the 60/40 split rear seats folded. A front trunk adds extra space (about 150 litres on rear-drive models).
Towing is not permitted. the car does not support a trailer hitch. Vehicle capacity weight is 433 kg. Air suspension is optional or standard on higher trims for adjustable ride height.
The cabin centers on a large 17-inch touchscreen that handles climate, media, navigation and vehicle settings. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard. Front seats are power adjustable (8-way base or 12-way on higher trims) and heated. An optional all-glass panoramic roof opens wide for an open-air feel while blocking most heat and light. The electric powertrain keeps the cabin quiet.
Fully electric powertrain with no gasoline required
Recommended annual service inspection every 12 months or 12,500 miles
NHTSA 5-star rating in every category
Eight airbags standard (front head/knee/pelvis plus side curtains)
Electronic stability control, traction control and ABS standard
Battery and drive unit covered by 8-year unlimited-mile warranty
The Model S runs solely on electricity from its lithium-ion battery pack. Range depends on the chosen battery size. Home charging uses the mobile connector or wall connector. longer trips can use the Supercharger network, which is included free on many examples of this generation.
Service needs are light because there is no engine oil, spark plugs or exhaust system. Tesla recommends a multi-point inspection, tire rotation, cabin filter and wiper replacement each year or 12,500 miles. Brake fluid is checked every two years. Battery coolant lasts far longer under normal use.
Crash testing gave the Model S a perfect 5-star NHTSA score across all categories and a 5-star Euro NCAP result. The low center of gravity from the floor-mounted battery pack reduces rollover risk. Eight airbags, automatic high-voltage disconnect and strong aluminum-boron structure protect occupants. Active features such as collision avoidance and automatic emergency braking arrived later via over-the-air updates.
Keeping the car involves mainly tire care, filter changes and software updates. The 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and longer battery/drive-unit coverage reduce ownership surprises. Regenerative braking extends brake life.
Length 4978 mm, Width 1964 mm, Height 1435 mm, Wheelbase 2960 mm (Model S 2012–2016)
Sources: manufacturer data, Tesla 2012 Model S Specifications and Features PDF, Tesla Model S owner's manuals, vehiclesizes.com and auto-data.net.