Tesla needs to redesign the Model S sedan - here are 9 changes I'd like to see
1. Exterior design. The Model S was launched in 2012. Penned by Franz von Holzhausen, it was Tesla's first "clean-sheet" design.
A few years later, the Model S was slightly revamped, with the biggest change being the loss of the nose cone that cleaned up the front fascia.
Von Holzhausen is a real minimalist, and the triumph of the Model S is that it's held up so well. But it's starting to look too conservative for a luxury ride. Here, for example, is the new Toyota Camry, a mass-market car that outdoes the Model S for exterior styling dynamics.
2. Wilder colors. The Model S can be ordered in five colors, with red being the most expensive (and best-looking). I'm not saying Tesla has to go acid green, but some frisky new colors could breathe some life into the good old Model S.
3. A distinctive high-performance variant. BMW has M Sport, Mercedes has AMG, Audi has RS, and Cadillac has V. Tesla has used "P" to showcase performance trim levels, but something flashier is in order.
4. "Maximum Plaid." The fastest Model S is the P100D, blasting from 0 to 60 mph in about 2.5 seconds in "Ludicrous Mode." A "Maximum Plaid" mode should be next (check the "Star Wars" spoof "Spaceballs" for the reference).
5. A truly UPSCALE interior. The interior of the Mercedes CLS, pictured here, is what luxury buyers expect. Tesla has upgraded the Model S over the years, but I'd like to see some serious bling in a redesigned version.
6. A truly SPORTY interior. A redesigned Model S doesn't need to go full Lamborghini, but some snappy patterns and contrast topstitching would be cool.
7. The Model 3's dashboard. The lack of traditional instruments takes some getting used to, but once you have that wide-open view in front of you, you appreciate the design. The Model S could use it.
8. More wheel options. For the current Model S, there are two 19-inch options and a single 21-inch choice. I'd like to see twice as many designs for a new Model S.
9. A Model S wagon. Sure, a guy can dream. I'd like to see a Model S estate, à la the Jaguar Sportbrake, pictured here.
I've always thought the Model S fails to get the props it deserves. It's a truly great set of wheels that deserves a fantastic redesign. Bring it on, Tesla!
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