2022 Tesla Model S Plaid Exterior and Dimensions

You'd never say the Model S was going on ten years old, as 2021's facelift makes minimal changes that keep the design up-to-date. The hood is a bit sleeker, and the haunches are more pronounced. Tesla carried over most of the design elements we know and love. Since there is no engine, it doesn't need a grille. Instead, you get a minimalist sliver with the now-famous Tesla badge. The door handles are still flush, and the rear lights remain connected by a single trim piece. Plaid models have a subtle rear spoiler and diffuser. The standard 19-inch Tempest wheels can be upgraded to 21-inch Arachnid wheels, although these bigger wheels do have a negative impact on the car's range. The sedan also comes with a glass roof, a rear liftgate with automatic closing/opening, and LED headlights.

The Model S Plaid carries an S-Class-like price, but it's more comparable with the E-Class in terms of dimensions. It's 197.7 inches long, 78.2 inches wide excluding the mirrors, and 56.3 inches tall in its normal suspension setting, although its Cheetah stance drops this to 55.1 inches. The body rides on a skateboard platform with a 116.5-inch wheelbase.

Electric cars all have a weight problem, and the Plaid is no exception. It has a claimed curb weight of 4,766 pounds. To put that into perspective, the BMW M5, which is already a fatty, weighs 4,345 lbs. On the plus side, you'd never be able to tell thanks to that instant power delivery.