The 2018 Tesla Model S is a full-size luxury sedan that was available in several trim levels, each with its unique features and price point. As of 2018, the base price for a Tesla Model S started at around $79,500 for the 75D model, which came with a 75 kWh battery pack and an estimated range of 259 miles on a single charge. The 75D model was rear-wheel drive and had a single electric motor producing 382 horsepower.
For those looking for more range and power, the 100D model was available, starting at around $97,500. The 100D model came with a 100 kWh battery pack, providing an estimated range of 335 miles, and had a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 518 horsepower. At the top of the lineup was the P100D model, which started at around $135,000. The P100D model also had a 100 kWh battery pack but came with a more powerful dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 779 horsepower, allowing for a 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds.
Key Points
- The base price for the 2018 Tesla Model S 75D was around $79,500.
- The 100D model started at around $97,500, offering more range and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system.
- The P100D model, with its powerful dual-motor system, started at around $135,000.
- Each model had its unique features, including varying levels of range and performance.
- Prices did not include additional features, options, or destination charges.
Trim Levels and Features
The 2018 Tesla Model S was offered in several trim levels, each with its own set of standard and optional features. The 75D, as the base model, came with a significant number of standard features, including Tesla’s Autopilot system, which provided advanced safety and convenience features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The interior was equipped with premium leather upholstery, heated seats, and a massive 17-inch touchscreen display that controlled most of the vehicle’s functions.
Optional Features and Upgrades
Across all trim levels, Tesla offered a range of optional features and upgrades. One of the most significant upgrades was the Full Self-Driving Capability (FSD) package, which, although not fully functional at the time of the 2018 model year, promised future capabilities for fully autonomous driving. Other options included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and various interior decor and seating configurations. For those who wanted the absolute best in performance, the Ludicrous Mode was available on the P100D model, allowing for even quicker acceleration.
| Trim Level | Base Price | Estimated Range | Motor Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 75D | $79,500 | 259 miles | Rear-Wheel Drive, Single Motor |
| 100D | $97,500 | 335 miles | Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive |
| P100D | $135,000 | 315 miles | Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive with Ludicrous Mode |
Market Reception and Competitors
The 2018 Tesla Model S received positive reviews from critics and consumers alike, praised for its exceptional performance, range, and the tech-savvy features that came standard. However, it also faced stiff competition from other luxury sedans, both electric and gasoline-powered. Models like the Audi A7, BMW 7-Series, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered alternatives in the luxury sedan market, though none matched the Model S’s electric range and performance capabilities.
Despite the competition, the Model S stood out for its innovative approach to the automotive experience, including over-the-air software updates that could add new features to the vehicle after purchase. This approach, coupled with Tesla's growing network of Superchargers, made the Model S an attractive option for those looking for a luxury electric vehicle with the potential for long-distance travel.
What was the starting price of the 2018 Tesla Model S 75D?
+The starting price for the 2018 Tesla Model S 75D was around $79,500.
What were the key differences between the 100D and P100D models of the 2018 Tesla Model S?
+The main differences were in the performance and range. The 100D had an estimated range of 335 miles and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 518 horsepower. The P100D had a slightly lower range of 315 miles due to its more powerful dual-motor system producing 779 horsepower, allowing for significantly quicker acceleration.
Did the 2018 Tesla Model S offer any advanced safety features?
+Yes, the 2018 Tesla Model S came standard with Tesla's Autopilot system, which included features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, among others. Additionally, the option for Full Self-Driving Capability was available, though its full functionality was not enabled at the time.
In conclusion, the 2018 Tesla Model S offered a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and innovative technology, making it a standout in the electric vehicle market. Its pricing strategy, ranging from the relatively affordable 75D to the high-performance P100D, catered to a wide range of buyers. As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards more sustainable and technologically advanced vehicles, the 2018 Tesla Model S remains an important milestone in the transition to electric mobility.