2019 Tesla Model S Long Range: Review Of Range & Performance

The 2019 Tesla Model S Long Range emerged as a pinnacle of electric vehicle engineering, blending supercar acceleration, exceptional range, and sophisticated technology into a practical luxury sedan. With updates that simplified the lineup and boosted efficiency, this model delivered up to 370 miles of WLTP-rated range, all-wheel drive traction, and rapid charging capabilities, making it ideal for both urban commutes and cross-country journeys.

Powertrain and Performance Excellence

At the heart of the 2019 Model S Long Range lies a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 469 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This setup propels the sedan from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, offering instant torque delivery that feels otherworldly. Top speed reaches 155 mph, rivaling traditional sports cars while emitting zero tailpipe emissions.

Testers praised the seamless power distribution, providing superior grip in wet, slippery, or snowy conditions without compromising ride dynamics. Unlike combustion-engine rivals, the electric powertrain eliminates gear shifts, delivering linear acceleration that pins occupants back with relentless force.

Battery Range and Charging Innovations

The Long Range variant’s high-capacity battery pack achieves an EPA-estimated 335-370 miles per charge, depending on configuration and testing standards—one of the longest ranges available in 2019. Real-world tests confirmed around 285-350 miles, influenced by wheels, weather, and driving style.

Charging speeds improved dramatically with 2019 updates: Superchargers deliver 80% capacity (adding 260 miles) in under 40-45 minutes, 50% faster than prior models. Home charging via a 16.5kW wall connector adds 43-48 miles per hour, supporting daily usability.

Dynamic Handling and Ride Quality

Adaptive air suspension, introduced in 2019, predicts road conditions to balance agility and comfort. It firms up for twisty roads and softens for highways, smoothing imperfections even on 19-inch wheels. The ride remains composed yet firm, prioritizing control over plushness.

Steering offers precise weighting and speed-sensitive response, though feedback is muted due to the electric rack—enhancing stability without fatigue on long drives. All-wheel drive ensures confident cornering, with minimal body roll and strong braking from regenerative systems.

Luxurious and Spacious Interior Design

The cabin impresses with premium materials, ample space for five (or seven with optional seats), and a panoramic glass roof flooding the space with light. Front seats provide excellent support, while rear passengers enjoy generous legroom, though small-item storage is limited back there.

Entry and exit are effortless via wide-opening doors and low stance. Visibility benefits from slim pillars and a high seating position, aided by cameras for blind spots. Build quality feels solid, with a minimalist aesthetic centered on a massive 17-inch touchscreen.

Infotainment and Driver Assistance Mastery

The pivotal 17-inch central display controls navigation, climate, media, and games via an intuitive interface. Premium audio with 11 speakers (upgraded mid-year) delivers immersive sound, paired with seamless smartphone integration.

Autopilot hardware enables adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, auto lane changes, and summon features. Enhanced Autopilot adds hands-free parking and highway finesse; Full Self-Driving Capability (optional) promises future autonomy. These tools shine in traffic, reducing driver workload dramatically.

Practicality for Everyday and Family Use

Cargo space totals over 60 cubic feet with seats folded, accommodating bulky items via a liftback hatch. Small-item storage abounds upfront, with frunks and door bins. Child seat installation is straightforward with LATCH anchors.

• Pros: Vast range, rapid charging, thrilling acceleration, spacious interior, over-the-air updates.
• Cons: Firm ride on base wheels, touchscreen reliance can distract, limited rear storage.

Ownership Costs and Reliability Insights

Running costs plummet with electricity rates, yielding 90-100 MPGe efficiency. No oil changes or transmissions cut maintenance; Tesla’s warranty covers 4 years/50,000 miles basic, 8 years/unlimited miles on battery/drive unit.

Supercharger access facilitates road trips, with nationwide coverage minimizing range anxiety. Resale holds strong due to desirability.

Safety Ratings and Advanced Features

The Model S earned top NHTSA 5-star ratings across categories, bolstered by a rigid battery structure, low center of gravity, and eight cameras/12 ultrasonics for 360-degree awareness. Regenerative braking enhances control, and over-the-air updates continually refine safety systems.

Comparisons with Rivals and Model Evolution

Versus the Porsche Taycan or Audi e-tron, the Model S offered superior range and value at ~$80,000-$92,000 (UK £79,300). Mid-2019 simplified trims dropped 75D/100D for Long Range/Performance, adding efficiency and Ludicrous Mode (2.4s 0-60).

Improvements over early models included 20+ miles extra range, quicker charging, and better dynamics—elevating it far beyond 2013’s S85.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the real-world range of the 2019 Model S Long Range?

Expect 285-350 miles depending on conditions, wheels, and speed—closely matching EPA/WLTP figures.

Does it support home charging?

Yes, a 16.5kW connector adds 43-48 miles/hour; full charge takes 8-10 hours.

Is Autopilot standard?

Basic Autopilot is included; Enhanced adds lane changes and parking for ~$6,000 extra.

How fast does it charge on Superchargers?

80% in under 45 minutes, adding 260 miles—50% quicker than pre-2019 models.

Can it seat seven passengers?

Optional third row fits children; five adults is optimal.

Final Verdict: A Benchmark EV Legacy

The 2019 Tesla Model S Long Range solidified Tesla’s dominance, offering luxury, performance, and practicality unmatched in its class. Its influence endures, paving the way for modern EVs with over-the-air evolution and infrastructure integration.