The 2026 Tesla Model S is a large luxury sedan with a liftback body style and hatch-like trunk. It competes with models such as the Lucid Air, Porsche Taycan, and Mercedes-Benz EQS. This model year includes a refresh with updates like additional sound deadening for reduced cabin noise, more aerodynamic wheel designs, adaptive headlights, and an EPA-estimated range increase to 410 miles on the base model. The standard powertrain consists of a dual-motor all-wheel-drive electric system producing 670 horsepower from a 100-kWh battery pack, paired with a one-speed direct drive transmission.
The infotainment system features a 17-inch central touchscreen that handles navigation, media, vehicle settings, and additional functions including arcade games, real-time traffic data, over-the-air streaming services, and sentry mode surveillance. For 2026, it incorporates a new front-facing camera to support camera-based driver assistance systems, enhanced visualizations for Autopilot and optional Full Self-Driving (Supervised), and integration of the "Hey Grok" voice assistant. The Tesla mobile app enables remote preconditioning, charge scheduling, live camera views, over-the-air software updates that add features without service visits, and subscription options for premium connectivity and advanced autonomy.
What You're Really Signing Up For
- Confusing privacy policy hides data sharing risks like employee access to customer videos.
- Key features like FSD and connectivity locked behind subscriptions.
- Opting out of data sharing disables useful vehicle features.
- No physical controls means relying fully on the touchscreen.
- Frequent software glitches including center screen blackouts and general bugs.
Top Reported Issues
The most frequently mentioned problems by owners
Confusing Privacy Policy Language
Tesla's privacy notice uses vague legal language and contains contradictory statements about data de...
Steering yoke turn signals
The Model S uses a yoke instead of a traditional steering wheel, with turn signal buttons on it rath...
FSD Subscription Only Shift
Tesla discontinued one-time Full Self-Driving (FSD) purchases after February 2026, shifting to month...
Remote control assigned to wrong user
Tesla vehicles can be remotely controlled via the mobile app after being assigned to a user's Tesla ...
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the 2026 Tesla Model S
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