Tesla Model S gains squared-off wheel, horizontal infotainment, 3rd engine

After nine years on the market, Tesla has finally resolved to facelift its flagship, the Model S. In its newest form, the liftback looks different both inside and outside while offering more power and options.

Exterior changes are few and boil down to redesigned headlights, bumpers and wheels. The cabin is where things start getting interesting: the steering wheel is now squared off all sports-like. The change may look cool, but unless the steering has become more responsive overall, this may become inconvenient due to how tricky it can be to change grip during fast maneuvers.

The portrait-oriented display makes way for a landscape-oriented screen, and another optional screen slots in between the front seats. The manufacturer speaks about improved material quality, but we would wait for reviews before jumping to conclusions here.

Last but by no means least, the range expands to incorporate two top specs called Plaid and Plaid+. Both come equipped with triple electric motors identical to those the latest Model 3 packs and joint their efforts for 1,034 PS (1,020 hp / 760 kW). Getting from zero to 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) takes 1.99 seconds, covering a quarter of a mile is a matter of 9.23 seconds, and the top speed lies as high up as 322 km/h (200 miles per hour). The car has 628 kilometers (390 miles) of range and costs U.S. $120,000 and above.

The Plaid+ makes use of a new battery and therefore has over 840 km (522 miles) of range. It costs $140,000+ and comes with a number of other high-end features that remain to be revealed later.