Tesla Models: Which is Right for You?

Danielle S
Dec 12, 2020

Toying with the idea of making your next vehicle an electric-powered one? If so, then you’ll want to explore the wide range of Tesla models on the market.

What models does Tesla make?

  • 3: $37,990 – $54,990 
  • S: $69,420 – $91,990 
  • X: $79,990 – $99,990 
  • Y: $48,000 – $59,990 

From sleek sedans to SUVs and even an electric-powered pickup truck in the works, Tesla’s ingenuity has really taken the automotive world by storm. Which model is right for you? Let us help you decide!

Tesla Model 3: $37,990 – $54,990

Blue Tesla Model 3 From Front-Passenger Side

The Model 3 is the most affordable electric sedan that Tesla has to offer. This sedan has also been around for several years, so many of the initial bugs seem to have been worked out with this model.

Available in three main trim levels, the base Model 3 Standard Range Plus comes with features like:

  • 15-inch touchscreen interface
  • Built-in navigation system
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Autopilot capability
  • Adaptive cruise control

Every Model 3 is also available with Tesla’s optional “full self-driving capability,” which can do everything from change lanes to act as your own personal valet.

Key Specs

  • Standard range of 250 miles on a single electric charge
  • Up to 322 miles of electric range (on Long Range models with larger battery pack)
  • 15 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space
  • 0-60 mph time: 3.1 seconds

Safety Features & Ratings

Every 2020 Tesla Model 3 comes with the following standard safety features:

  • Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keep assist with departure warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear and front parking sensors

The 2020 Model 3 has also received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA as is rated as a 2020 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

What are People Saying?

Owners rave about the Tesla Model 3 on Vehicle History‘s review page. As of December 2020, this model has an average 4.85/5-star owner rating and a 4.6/5-star rating from our independent experts.

Tesla Model S: $69,420 – $91,990

Red Tesla Model S From Passenger Side

Interested in a Tesla model with a longer electric range and a more spacious cabin? Don’t overlook the Tesla Model S, a five-passenger sedan that’s a pretty big step up from the Model 3 in terms of size and features.

Offered in two trims (Long Range Plus and Performance), this electric car comes standard with all-wheel drive and is powered by a 100-kWh battery pack. Other standard equipment includes:

  • Adaptive air suspension
  • 17-inch touchscreen with navigation
  • Heated front- and second-row seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Power liftgate

Like the Model 3, the Model S is also available with full self-driving capability as an add-on for either trim.

Key Specs

  • Standard range of 373-402 miles on a single electric charge (Long Range Plus models)
  • 348-mile range (Performance models)
  • 0-60 mph time: 3.7 seconds (Long Range Plus models) or 2.4 seconds (Performance models)
  • 26.3 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space

Safety Features & Ratings

Every 2020 Tesla Model S comes with the following standard safety features:

  • Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keep assist with departure warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear and front parking sensors

As of December of 2020, the Model S has not been rated by the NHTSA.

What are People Saying?

The 2020 Tesla Model S has a 5/5-star owner rating on Vehicle History as of December of 2020. Specifically, owners seem to love the smooth ride, comfortable cabin, and easy charging that this vehicle has to offer.

Tesla Model X: $79,990 – $99,990

Blue 2020 Model-X In Motion

If you prefer the higher profile and added utility of an SUV, good news: There’s a Tesla SUV for that! Specifically, the Tesla Model X is classified as an electric SUV with plenty of luxurious features and excellent range.

With seating for up to seven passengers, this is also the most accommodating Tesla on the market.

Like many Tesla models, the Model X is offered in both Long Range Plus and Performance trims. The main difference between the two is in acceleration time and total electric range. Standard equipment includes:

  • Heated front and rear seats
  • 17-inch touchscreen display
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Keyless entry and ignition
  • Adaptive air suspension

The 2020 Model X is also offered with full self-driving capabilities if you don’t mind shelling out the extra money for this convenience.

Key Specs

  • Standard range of 328-351 miles (base Long Range Plus trim)
  • 305-mile range (Performance trim)
  • 0-60 mph time: 3.4 seconds (Long Range Plus trim) or 2.6 seconds (Performance trim)
  • 88 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded down
  • Towing capacity: 3,480 – 4,960 pounds

Safety Features & Ratings

Every 2020 Tesla Model X is equipped with the following standard safety features:

  • Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keep assist with departure warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear and front parking sensors

The 2020 Model X has also received an overall safety rating of 5 stars by the NHTSA.

What are People Saying?

The reviews for the 2020 Model X on Vehicle History are very positive, with the average rating being 4.91/5 stars (as of December of 2020).

Specifically, owners of this electric SUV enjoy its comfortable cabin, luxurious features, and all-wheel drive system.

Tesla Model Y: $48,000 – $59,990

Blue Y In Motion

If you like the idea of an electric SUV but aren’t sold on the Model X due to its larger size, you may want to check out the Model Y instead. This two-row SUV is easier to handle and comes with a smaller price tag, too.

As you could probably guess by now, the 2020 Tesla Model Y is offered in two trims: the Long Range Plus and Performance. Standard equipment on the base trim includes:

  • 15-inch touchscreen display
  • Premium 14-speaker sound system
  • Panoramic glass roof
  • 19-inch wheels
  • Heated front seats

The main difference with the Performance trim is its zestier acceleration and slightly lower electric range. Every 2020 Model Y is available with full self-driving capability as an add on, as well as other upgrades.

Key Specs

  • Standard range of 316 miles on a single electric charge (Long Range trim)
  • 315-mile range (Performance trim)
  • 0-60 mph time: 4.8 seconds (Long Range trim) or 3.5 seconds (Performance trim)
  • 68 total cubic feet of available cargo space
  • Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped)

Safety Features & Ratings

Every 2020 Tesla Model Y is equipped with the following standard safety features:

  • Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keep assist with departure warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear and front parking sensors

As of December of 2020, this model has not been rated by the NHTSA.

What are People Saying?

In addition to the 2020 Model Y’s 4.7/5-star expert rating on Vehicle History, owners give this model an average of 4.88/5 stars as of December of 2020.

Based on reviews, favorite features seem to be the Model Y’s spacious cabin, ample tech features (including the large touchscreen display), and quick charging. This SUV also seems to be very reliable.

avatar Danielle S
Danielle S. is a writer with more than 10 years of experience covering the automotive industry. She lives in Indiana ("The Crossroads of America") but enjoys road-tripping around the country whenever she gets the chance.
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