It’s not often we’re jealous of other media publications, as the cool kids on the block it’s never really been an issue — but it happens. Every so often our buttery smooth, and naturally flawless skin, lets off a slight green hue and the cause of our latest onset of envy sees Consumer Reports to blame.
Last week, the publication, which is known for purchasing a vast majority of its own products for review rather than being supplied by various manufacturers (cars included), took delivery of its very own Tesla Model S. Consumer Reports already gave the Model S a quick spin back in November, but had yet receive delivery of its own unit for review.
So what did Consumer Reports have to say about the Model S? So far, not much in the way of driving (real road tests have yet to commence) but it did lament the more than two years it took from placing its $5,000 deposit on the car to the vehicle’s ultimate delivery. The Model S is currently riding a wave of critical acclaim and public interest after snagging Motor Trend’s 2013 Car of the Year award. Unsurprisingly, delivery time for orders of the all-electric luxury sedan remain as far as a year out.
The Model S, equipped with a 40 kWh battery and an estimated sing-charge range of 160 miles, starts at $57,400 (sans federal tax credits and deductions). According to its report, Consumer Reports managed to option out its award-winning all-electric with some $30,000+ add-ons, including a larger 85 kWh battery (good for an estimated 265 mile range on a single charge) as well as air-suspension, Nappa leather interior, and large sunroof. The final price for its motoring masterpiece: $89,650.
On a rather positive note, Consumer Reports did praise the entire purchasing process for the car, explaining how easy and efficient it was, and negating the need to ever step foot in a dealership. As we reported last year, Tesla has undertaken a more boutique approach to selling its cars, and Tesla dealerships have been springing up in malls and high foot traffic areas across the country since the summer of 2012.
Of course, the Model S isn’t the only high-profile alternative drivetrain vehicle the publication has recently tested. Just last year the Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid was given a thorough run-through, only to inexplicably break down during calibration testing. We anticipate the Model S will fare better, while we eagerly await our review unit to arrive. Until then, we reckon the good folks over at Consumer Reports wouldn’t mind giving us a lift?
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