Skip to main content

Tesla drops cheapest Model S and Model X versions in latest lineup reshuffle

2016 Tesla Model S P100D
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Tesla is making more changes to its lineup, dropping the least-expensive versions of the Model S and Model X, while also cutting prices on some remaining variants. The shake-up coincides with another cut in Tesla’s federal tax credit, as specified by the current rules. As part of the gradual phaseout already underway, the maximum credit decreased from $3,750 to $1,875 on July 1, and will disappear entirely at the end of the year. The phaseout was triggered when Tesla reached 200,000 electric car sales in 2018.

Tesla introduced entry-level Standard Range versions of the Model S and Model X in April alongside new Long Range versions of both vehicles. Now that the Standard Range version is gone, the base price of a Model S effectively rises from $79,200 to $81,190 (all prices include a mandatory $1,200 destination charge). But that price represents a $5,010 cut for the Long Range version, which is now the de facto base model. With 370 miles of range, it’s the longest-range electric car currently available.

It’s a similar story with the Model X. With the Standard Range version dropped, the least-expensive Model X is the Long Range variant. Its $87,190 base price is $4,990 more than the defunct Model X Standard Range. But, like the Model S, the Model X Long Range is now $5,010 cheaper than before. It’s rated at 325 miles of range.

Tesla still offers Performance versions of the Model S and Model X as well. The Ludicrous Mode that unlocks extra performance is now standard equipment. Ludicrous Mode was previously a $20,000 option, although Tesla did make it available for free to repeat customers, according to Green Car Reports. Performance versions of the Model S and Model X start at $101,190 and $106,190, respectively.

The least-expensive Model 3 variant listed on Tesla’s website is the Standard Range Plus, which starts at $40,190. That’s $910 less than before. The much-discussed $35,000 Model 3 is nowhere to be found on Tesla’s website, apparently still requiring a little more effort on the part of customers to order. Tesla offers Long Range ($51,190) and Performance ($56,190) versions of the Model 3 as well. Given the frequency with which Tesla changes its prices, options, and model lineup, it’s unclear how long the current setup will remain in place.

Editors' Recommendations

Stephen Edelstein
Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…
Tesla launches more affordable Model S and Model X, but there’s a catch
A 2021 Tesla Model S.

Tesla has launched more affordable versions of its Model S sedan and Model X SUV in the U.S. and Canada, though they come with shorter driving ranges. Deliveries of the new vehicles will begin next month.

The new Model S "standard range" vehicles cost $78,490 and offer a range of up to 320 miles (515 kilometers), which is considerably shorter than the pricier regular dual-motor and tri-motor Plaid versions that feature a range of 405 miles and 396 miles, respectively, Reuters reported.

Read more
Tesla shows off first Cybertruck after two years of delays
The first Cybertruck built at Tesla's Giga Texas facility.

The first Cybertruck built at Tesla's Giga Texas facility. Tesla

Tesla has shown off the first Cybertruck to roll off the production line at its new Gigafactory plant in Austin, Texas.

Read more
Tesla Cybertruck prototype spotted with minor changes
A Tesla Cybertruck prototype.

What appears to be a new Tesla Cybertruck prototype has been spotted testing on public roads.

As relayed by Electrek, Twitter user Greg posted a photo Thursday showing a Cybertruck with a different front-end design from what we've seen previously. The front bumper has a more distinct rectangular opening, possibly for cooling. This prototype also has triangular side mirrors, as opposed to the squared-off ones seen previously.

Read more