Tesla’s entry-level Model S 70D boasts 329 hp, a 240-mile range, and AWD for $75,000

By Andrew Hard April 8, 2015

Tesla Model S — Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re looking for an all-wheel drive Tesla Model S but don’t want to take out a second mortgage for the insane, $105,000 P85D, you’re in luck.

The brand has just announced a new entry-level model dubbed the 70D, an all-wheel drive doorman to the Model S range that starts at a more sensible $75,000. The 70D replaces the S 60, which was about $5,000 cheaper, but was only offered with rear-wheel drive and had a much shorter range.

The new car boasts an output of 329 horsepower, a range of 240 miles, and a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.2 seconds. Still seem spendy? Well, a Federal Tax Credit ($7,500) and five-year gas savings (estimated at $10,000) knock the price down to a more attainable $57,500. The 70D is available to order now.

Tesla Model S — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The mid-range Model S 85 is the only model left available with RWD, which will run you a cool $80,000. AWD is of course available in 85D guise, which brings the price up to $85,000 before incentives and charges are factored in.

At the top of the lineup is the aforementioned P85D, which has had several notable battles with the Dodge Challenger Hellcat, Ferrari 550, and Lamborghini Aventador over the last several months.

With 691 hp and a seismic 864 pound-feet of instant torque at its disposal, the AWD Tesla is a true supercar stunner.

The new variant isn’t the only recent change to the Model S however, as the brand announced a software update to ‘end range anxiety‘ as well as a new ‘Autopilot’ system in March.

The software update doesn’t coax more juice from the batteries though, it simply adds features like ‘Range Assurance’ and ‘Trip Planner’ to the car’s computer, which monitor Tesla’s Supercharger network and help plan the best route.

The Autopilot system is a semi-autonomous driving function that uses hardware already installed in the Model S. When released, the software package will allow the vehicle to take over on the highway. More features, like automated pickup and parking, are planned for the future.

Both updates should be rolling out in the coming months.

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