FIRST DRIVE: 200mph Tesla Model S Plaid Track Package

The Tesla Model S Plaid, so named because it’s the only speed faster than Ludicrous in the 1987 Star Wars parody movie Spaceballs. Hashtag ElonHumour. Basically a tri-motor electric saloon with 1,020bhp, 1,050lb ft and all-wheel drive.
The combination allows for pretty brutal acceleration: in the US the Model S Plaid has been clocked at 2.11 seconds to 62mph from rest, 4.19s to 100mph, 6.99s to 130mph and 0-150mph in 9.17 seconds. The quarter-mile was completed in 9.248 seconds at just over 150mph. It beats the Chiron up to 100mph.
So what does this Track Package add, then? Well, hopped-up battery conditioning for one, some different settings for the air suspension, and more aggressive torque vectoring. It’s the hardware that’s the most obvious though. For roughly £16,000 in the UK, you also get the carbon-ceramic brake package, high-temp brake fluid, and a ‘Zero-G’ wheel and tyre package that includes 20-inch lightweight wheels and Goodyear Supercar 3R tyres.
So has it helped fix some of the weak spots of the non-track pack Plaid? Over to Tom Ford to find out…
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WATCH MORE TOP GEAR:
First Looks: bit.ly/TGFirstLooks
First Drives: bit.ly/TGFirstDrives
American Tuned ft. Rob Dahm: bit.ly/TGAmericanTuned
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:07 Stats and specs
04:31 Interior
08:09 The track package
10:58 Testing it's limits
15:47 Conclusion
MORE ABOUT TOP GEAR:
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[@TheDeadNightTiger]

Is it just me or are the Top Gear presenters on KZbin much better than the ones on the TV show?

[@jordank195]

Yes

[@thomashayhurst6547]

Aside from Chris Harris, yes. They work for the magazine

[@RaXXha]

Because these guys care and know about cars for real, as opposed to the presenters hired for tv to be funny.

[@thomashayhurst6547]

@@RaXXha Chris is a car nut mate. Only one I don't like of the current TV roster is paddy

[@RaXXha]

@@thomashayhurst6547 Chris is obviously the exception. 😅

[@FromWhereICharge]

4:41 There is actually a secondary gear selctor near the phone holders and hazards button.

[@Tazman55x]

Also, the one on the display IS the backup. Because the car automatically shifts for you

[@Muhahahahaz]

@@Tazman55x most of the time. But it wouldn’t automatically do a 3-point turn while parking, for instance. You have to shift manually each time

[@paulgruninger1301]

ja

[@JoshuaSantos04]

@@Tazman55x Then you can call it a 2nd backup, but there are gear selectors below the screen that you can access by tapping that area.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

It's a "DRIVE" selector. There's one "gear" (ratio) The motor changes direction.

[@2nd3rd1st]

I am absolutely FLABBERGASTED! A fair and honest Tesla review? From Top Gear?? 🤯

[@kevinkysar6480]

Best comment

[@RealGodfromheaven]

Remember the roadster?

[@shimmy1984]

That was over 10 years ago.

[@corystansbury]

​@@shimmy1984 And a pretty different organization. Show is the same in name only at this point.

[@Kashis_Corner]

I feel like every motoring journalists love to hate on Teslas while praising other electric vehicles.

[@oskarskalski2982]

Wow, it's the first time I've seen such thorough evaluation of Tesla S Plaid on track. Even throttle house didn't tinker so much with settings. And it's from Top Gear on KZbin of all channels. I wouldn't have anticipated such thorough review from Top Gear. Kudos to the whole crew and presenter. I hope there will be more such videos from you.

[@pyramo3170]

Yeah they had one with a yoke wheel before it even had track mode. Great to see one here.

[@TechSpyYt]

When throttle house had the plaid... There wasn't a track mode and the brakes were shitty and they had a yoke

[@oskarskalski2982]

@@TechSpyYt yes I know that they didn't have track package, its from their review I remember that the brakes were shitty. But I think that tinkering with balance of power (front to end) was available on it without track package.

[@Tom_McMurtry]

Did they miss out on showing how fast it can go on the track package vs without?

[@bearlemley]

Throttle was overly dramatic trying fault the Plaid. These guys do nearly 200mph without a sweat. Throttle house guy feigned a heart attack doing the quarter mile.

[@GXKid06]

There is a backup gear shifter by the hazards button. Its hidden under normal use

[@JohnSmith-pn2vl]

ye, all teslas work without screen no problem, there is a video on youtube where someone destroys it with a hammer while driving.

[@longslongprong]

TG never fails to present problems that don't exist

[@pitekx45]

Below the wirless chargers

[@allwheeldrive]

Really good review on many levels. It's hard for quite a few journalists to mask their prejudices when reviewing Teslas, one way or the other, and that sometimes misses a lot of you covered. This felt very objective and honest, even in the face of giggle-inducing two-second sprints and the magic of their software. This Plaid seems like a great success for what it was intended to be. Thanks!

[@Notme-tq4xs]

yes

[@wisdoma4860]

WILL HE PLEASE STOP COMPLIAING ABOUT THE SEATS...

[@Mrbfgray]

Curious little detail: independent dyno test measured over 1100hp for this model.

[@innismor11]

Prejudices?? In 2021, when Tesla first came out with the car, Elon Musk said Tesla's Model S Plaid was going to the Nuhrburgring to set a new lap record for a sedan. We've yet to hear a peep again on that from Musk or Tesla. We can presume they tried (probably multiple times) and failed. The Nuhrburgring record for a sedan remains 7min 18.3sec, by the 592bhp Jaguar XE SV Project 8, set in 2019.

[@shangoobakoso9084]

​@@MrbfgraySure did. The real HP is more than the 1020 Tesla claims. I think that same dyno test only showed about 950 for the torque though. Still incredible.

[@groundhabit6408]

The most unbiased review I’ve seen on a plaid

[@jackbrennan592]

What is biased here?

[@groundhabit6408]

@@jackbrennan592 read it again

[@asimo3089]

That interior at 6:00 is just so cool. Looks straight from outer space. I know it's not the buttons and dials some prefer but I personally love it. Sweeping lines everywhere.

[@jordanplays-transitandgame1690]

Same it's the boomers that mostly hate these new interiors, add this car in jailbreak lol

[@chamaldealwis9]

Eqs and i7 interior miles better

[@axioms22]

cheapest interior, plasticky and falling apart, cobbled together by underpaid workers

[@davidfujkk8018]

Just imagine 1200 hp 2024 plaid plus,with new condensed catl battery tech with 2.3 times more energy per kg in pack,it will be at least 350 lighter,current plaid model with 19 inch wheels or track pack wheels weighs 2160 kg,imagine 1200 hp 1650 nm of torque with kerb weight of only 1800 kg for a super saloon,it will eat any thing on the planet that so many people can buy

[@currycel470]

Eqs interior looks 1000X better than this.

[@teslahype]

5:00 Not shown in this video, there is another hidden gear selector by the phone chargers in case manual gear selection override needed

[@oskarskalski2982]

Yeah, it was weird because all the other channels have already shown it so you would have thought that they know about it. Hell, I who have never driven model S knows it. But other than that great review.

[@JohnSmith-pn2vl]

from all the plaid track package videos i watched this was by far the best, good job!

[@joninmelbourne]

I have had my 75 Model S for 7 years and it’s hands down the best car I have ever had and I have had many. Trouble is, no new car would ever be better other than a new Model S, so I guess I am stuck with it. With lifetime free supercharging it is a good car to be stuck with.

[@shou635]

I agree completely. I have a 90D almost 7 years old and love it.

[@jjchockey]

If you enjoy driving go drive an Alfa Romeo Giulia and you will find out what it is like to drive a real drivers car.

[@vincenzomanzella1359]

@@jjchockey no one’s wants a shit box 😭

[@daniel_960_]

I think there's an offer right now you can transfer free charging of your old model S to a new one

[@jsdzx]

Went from a 14 p85 to a 17 p100d. It’s no other car I would want for a daily. Plaid is the next one for me. I’m locked.

[@orbitalprime3329]

Literally the most level headed review of a Tesla I have ever seen. Bravo

[@electricviking]

Great review Top Gear, best I've seen in a long time. Model S Plaid is possibly the most underrated performance car ever.

[@overduetax]

It's a battery box that goes fast. I feel like it's not underrated.

[@currycel470]

Underated? It's the most overrated car. Everyone thinks it's the best car for 100k but it gets beaten by 400hp rs3 audi sedan on green hell.

[@lukabosnjak3829]

​@@currycel470 It is extremely practical, quite luxurious, best software in the industry (important these days), now also does very well on track, is the safest car in the world (euroNcap) and as a bonus is the fastest accelerating production car in the world... Its underrated

[@larryc1616]

❤Plaid

[@CloroxGodThe1st]

​@@lukabosnjak3829 It's literally a 4 door with 1000hp and electric motors. Give any other 4 door 1000hp and its game over.. oh wait, new lucid has 1200hp and STOMPED it on Hagerty.

[@supamsp]

You'd think they would know that there are gear selector buttons below the screen. In case of issues

[@CreateYourWorth]

Surprised he missed this. You're correct. There are buttons at the bottom section near the charging section for drive and reverse, just in case the screen goes out.

[@RepsTheLegend]

@@CreateYourWorth it’s not just in case, you can use those whenever you want by either clicking a button or clicking both wheels. It also stays illuminated in valet mode

[@larryc1616]

No transmission no shifting to slow it down

[@chewthegum]

@@larryc1616 regen braking replaces shifting to slow down, puts energy back into the battery also.

[@larryc1616]

@@chewthegum I meant accelerating and drag racing is faster without a transmission and no shifting to slow it down

[@mydutube]

Performance of a million pound car in a family sedan at 80k GBP. I want one.

[@larryc1616]

Beats the Chiron in drag and track too

[@iandavis8725]

More like over £100k by the time it comes here to buy and track package on top of that.

[@JHunter_]

The under 90k one 0-60 is 3.1 sec, the plaid is above 100k

[@johncena-hq1ti]

@@JHunter_that’s US dollars not pounds

[@aidanmagee2269]

@@larryc1616 just drag not track though

[@ureviews]

Very nice unbiased review!

[@jjuhring1]

Correction, when you slide the Handling Balance all the way to the front, it does not limit the car to only the front motor. Nor does sliding it all the way to the rear use only the rear motors. It only takes effect when cornering, and it simply adjusts how the torque is delivered mid-corner or when exiting a corner. Also, the Plaid track-mode interface doesn't take it "a few steps further" over the Model 3 Performance. The interface is identical.

[@kennibal666]

That's why 0-100 times are still similar whether you set it to front or rear bias. I love how the engineers add in the ability for you to have fun without taking away speed in a straight line.

[@mildmannered1086]

Commenting for visibility, this is indeed the case

[@justinmallais5166]

Great info, thanks

[@carholic-sz3qv]

Stop the crap please! The model plaid has 3 electric motors so technically it’s has a totally different and improved track mode unlike the model3 two electric motors!

[@cajampa]

@@carholic-sz3qv What are you talking about dude? He was talking about the interface not the engines.

[@LeMeBucallion]

For 150k, nothing even comes close to what the Model S plaid can offer.

[@geoffletkemann653]

Just lacks the exotic looks one would expect from a car with this kind of performance. I just don't find them attractive at all, something I'd drive to church maybe.

[@ericMT]

Imagine a Tesla roadster with the same or better performance. It will be incredible.

[@lukabosnjak3829]

@@ericMT They are aiming for the 4 door production Ring record here, roadster is going for the Amg one...

[@Mrbfgray]

@@geoffletkemann653 In person? Depending on color, etc., I find some to be exceptionally good looking in real life. But I loath the shouty "look at me!" styling of most modern fast cars.

[@mr.boombah6511]

agreed it a 4 door sedan daily driver that slaps super cars around best DD i've owned

[@iandavis8725]

Doing about 66 miles at 200mph is pretty impressive for an EV.

[@shannons1886]

Beats a chiron. At 200mph, the Chiron goes 2 miles for every gallon. It has a 26 gallon tank.

[@wow-sham1300]

@@shannons1886 fr, I know that it gets terrible gas mileage but that bad??

[@danny355]

To be fair every car will have a 20 minute range at 200mph. An Enzo, a Chiron, a 911 turbo. The best cruising speed compromise is more like 125mph

[@gpaje]

That's actually good for even a high-performance gasoline car running on the track.

[@4literv6]

On less than 3 gallons worth of gas in total energy no LESS. 👍🏻😎

[@cokyrobes]

Wow what a car and what a company

[@Firestorm637]

I own a model X, 3, and Y. After owning exotics in the past I am now spoiled. Only maintenance are tires. I have solar so charge at home no smelly, dirty gas stations. I save $600/month on home electricity and gas. I love quiet, stealthy now. Police leave me alone as no attention getting. People leave you alone in parking lots vs exotics parking

[@inciwillard991]

You forgot to add, we have to fill the windshield washer. Oh, the horror!😄

[@youremydaddy]

Do your farts smell like roses?

[@Notme-tq4xs]

Yes, I can speed 0-60 in under 3 seconds, nobody calls the cops and no annoying noise or smoke or squeeling tires like a fool.

[@AaronVets]

Do you really need 3 cars? 🤔🤡

[@benedict2814]

Great review. Nice to hear someone actually reviewing a car for a change, rather than pushing some kind of agenda.

[@guslevy3506]

Obviously, the advertisers will have to fix that soon…

[@hagestad]

Well all the info is slightly wrong. Omitting existence of Lucid for once and going straight to Rimac. Stating the obvious fact that model X and S are the worst made Teslas of all the models (pretty consistent fact shared amongst auto journalists) - strike 2. I can go on.

[@TheKostasLab]

200 miles per hour = 321.869 kilometers per hour

[@djayjp]

The video showed it going 330km/h

[@samarthbiradar2184]

I can't thank you enough 😅

[@James-semaJ]

Cool story

[@davidfujkk8018]

Just imagine 1200 hp 2024 plaid plus,with new condensed catl battery tech with 2.3 times more energy per kg in pack,it will be at least 350 kg lighter,current plaid model with 19 inch wheels or track pack wheels weighs 2160 kg,imagine 1200 hp 1650 nm of torque with kerb weight of only 1800 kg for a super saloon,it will eat any thing on the planet that so many people can buy

[@sciapan]

​@@davidfujkk8018and then try to imagine Roadster 2 with 0-100 in 1.1s...

[@lambosuperl]

You're an amazing host Tom! Thanks for a great and entertaining video! 🔥

[@armanddesarrierespays719]

Fair review, good upgrade from a legacy Model S for sure. My favorite sedan by far. 1020 hp and insane efficiency (140 Wh/km according to some careful drivers).

[@ethanlinderman8833]

Honestly not relevant on a top gear video about a track day.

[@Tommmmmmmmmmmm]

this and the Lucid Air Sapphire are certainly setting the benchmark.

[@WouterZtube]

The 140 Wh/km is actually very impressive. My 2105 P85D does between 180 and 240 (summer vs freezing winter)

[@Cloxxki]

@@WouterZtube Sure shows progress. P85D has that inefficient but punchy rear motor and less refined aero. At the same time, Tesla have unlimited budget and only 2 platforms, 4 models, on the market. We can expect them to lead. Lucid on a tiny budget delivers a super impressive car. Sure the loaded versions are "Turbo S" priced, but drivetrain is just better in every way, aero better, etc. They won't be able to make their base model a bad EV.

[@WouterZtube]

@@Cloxxki Lucid is doing great, but they too don’t have a very limited budget with all those investments. And don’t forget: Tesla also built a charging network around the world. I still can use superchargers everywhere for free. And yeah that punchy rear motor is amazing. Mine had an issue just before the 8 year warranty ran out and they replaced it at no cost. So it’s as punchy as new again

[@JamesMorgan2]

Great review, thank you! Having lived with a non-Plaid but updated Model S for nearly two years now, I can say it is an awesome car. Yes, the standard only has 670hp, but it will still do 0-60 in 3s and beat almost anything else at the lights :) These cars are great GT cars too, especially with the SuperCharger network and the ooodles of storage space. The cabin is a really nice place to spend a few hours.

[@ES-qe1nh]

Yeah, it better be, it's a sedan lol

[@TheCreamRisesToTheTop]

@@ES-qe1nh it’s technically a hatchback

[@bavskijt]

Only 670hp 😂😂😂. I can't wait until they land in the UK, will swap the M3P for the LR you have.

[@samgonnella8348]

I have the same model (long range S) - it's proven to be an amazing daily driver.

[@GoldenReaper759]

The fact that these vehicles are so powerful that people say “only 670hp” is insane

[@markedwards4879]

I seem to remember that the Veyron would run out of petrol in 15 minutes at top speed, but that wasn’t really a problem as they tyres wouldn’t last much longer…

[@user-us6ii2ph2q]

This is Autobahn commuter car. And believe me is really really fun.

[@TheCreamRisesToTheTop]

He says he doesn’t like the shifter being on the screen because what if the screen fails? He doesn’t realize it has a backup shifter by the phone chargers….

[@tdpiersonavoca]

Right. Also, any sort of shifter can fail, mechanical or display operated. Both extremely rare occurrences…

[@kotomile]

A note on the Track Mode: It's the same as in a Model 3 Performance, the M3P got the Track Mode v2 update before the Plaid was lainched, if I recall correctly. The handling bias slider adjusts *handling bias*, not power distribution. Think understeer/oversteer vs. sending power to the front or rear. E.g. if you set the slider fully to the front you aren't on 1/3 power.

[@uncletaku]

I thought Tom Ford only makes overpriced suits. Turns out he's great at reviewing cars too.

[@Mike-1000]

And he's a Snooker player.

[@davidfujkk8018]

Just imagine 1200 hp 2024 plaid plus,with new condensed catl battery tech with 2.3 times more energy per kg in pack,it will be at least 350 kg lighter,current plaid model with 19 inch wheels or track pack wheels weighs 2160 kg,imagine 1200 hp 1650 nm of torque with kerb weight of only 1800 kg for a super saloon,it will eat any thing on the planet that so many people can buy

[@zurnar1000]

@@davidfujkk8018 Just imagine if tesla could release anything they announced within 5 years of when they say it will.

[@davidfujkk8018]

@@zurnar1000 tesla didnt release roadster for better battery technology,tesla knew from 2017 that in year 2024 or 2025 huge improvement will happen in term of energy density of batteries,with this new techs roadster will weigh less than 1500 kg

[@zurnar1000]

@@davidfujkk8018 This won't happen. You are definitely guilty of drinking the Tesla Kool Aid. I do think major battery improvements are inevitable, but it would be bold to say the least to think we'll have it as soon as 2024 or 2025. Not to mention, even if the world does get better batteries, I can assure you the roadster will be delayed even longer as Teslas always are.

[@ewadge]

The best thing about the plaid is that you can go to the supermarket and load it up with shopping and that when you are stopped at the lights it is not snarling and making a racket. It is the ultimate sleeper. There is some fun to be had from a V8 or Porsche Flat 6 and I agree that a manual internal combustion engine car would be more fun on a track. but if you are not going to the track much and want a car which can do a commute and essentially destroy anything else on the public roads, the Model S plaid is the best. Also, for the performance you get it is actually a bargain.

[@guslevy3506]

In all practicality, the greatest value of the Plaid S is its understated vibe…the people who take their cars to the track is about the same as those who take their 4x4 to the mountains to eat rocks - which is very very few. Going about in a “daily” driver but knowing that you can eat up any other car on the roads if you have to is nice…and the fact that those other cars know it too is the kicker. “Speak quietly, but carry a big stick”…

[@aimxdy8680]

No the fuck it’s not, My RS3 also does road-trips, track days, 190 mph half mile, cruise on street and I still gap 150,000 dollar Plaids in my daily driver 900 whp 50K dollar Audi RS3 4 door sedan with only 30K of mods 😉 Let alone my twin turbo C6 Z06. My RS3 does 60-130 mph in 3.9 seconds and 1/4 mile of 8.7 seconds all on Full interior with working A/C and heated seats. There’s full interior working A/C RS3s running 7 sec 1/4 miles, Name me ONE tesla that has touched 7 seconds.

[@aimxdy8680]

@@guslevy3506 Plaid got gapped by a stock motor F150 work truck and a stock blower Hellcat on just bolt ons, it is not that fast. I gap 150,000 dollar Plaids in my daily driver 900 whp 50K dollar Audi RS3 4 door sedan with only 30K of mods 😉 Let alone my twin turbo C6 Z06. My RS3 does 60-130 mph in 3.9 seconds and 1/4 mile of 8.7 seconds all on Full interior with working A/C and heated seats. There’s full interior working A/C RS3s running 7 sec 1/4 miles, Name me ONE tesla that has touched 7 seconds.🤣

[@Firestorm637]

Great unbiased review

[@ricardoteixeira2776]

Tesla is a monster of a company. Well done 🔥

[@stumpythetarantula]

🙄

[@Just_a_random_birb]

@@stumpythetarantula why did you use that emoji?

[@stumpythetarantula]

@Ipad Os Because Tesla are a medium-sized automotive company with poor build cars. Hardly a monster company

[@skierpage]

​@@stumpythetarantula Tesla is growing about 35% a year. It's bigger than Subaru and Jaguar Land Rover, it's about to be bigger than Mazda, and Suzuki and BMW are in its sights. The Model Y could be the biggest-selling car in the world in 2023. As the reviewer said, quality continues to improve. What Evie did you buy instead?

[@Just_a_random_birb]

@@stumpythetarantula so don’t roll your eyes and research a bit

[@stoner27th]

after all the price cuts, the track package and the big wheels and the FSD are practically free compared to last year's price.

[@ImmoReichardt]

TESLA is simply the best, you can get for your money. Period,

[@smile768]

Really great review. Perfect information without being boring.

[@PassportGaming]

First time seeing Top Gear show respect to Tesla

[@1ndragunawan]

Even Clarkson made a positive video about Tesla.

[@TheCreamRisesToTheTop]

@@1ndragunawan the one where he had a Model X full of lawyers? 😂

[@currycel470]

​@@1ndragunawan which one 😂. I can bet my life that he doesn't respect Tesla.

[@1ndragunawan]

@@currycel470 Here you go: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqTWppaPpL6nj6c

[@1ndragunawan]

@@TheCreamRisesToTheTop yup.

[@marcusoutdoors4999]

Love it… especially the ocean bar style interior

[@notsurfsup]

What a ride! If I ever need to drive to the grocery store at 170mph before they run out of cauliflower, this is definitely the car I would choose if I could afford one...

[@hype-r3076]

There is emergency gear selector implemented on the same bar is the hazard lights below charging pad incase the screen isn’t working properly

[@Muhahahahaz]

5:02 “screen meltdowns” won’t be an issue. It also has physical buttons for each gear just below the phone charging pads (with a button for your hazards in the middle)

[@hockeymann88]

I love petro powered cars but this would make a great daily, especially if you have a place to charge at home. Kudos to Tesla for the round steering wheel.

[@donm2255]

Tesla is constantly throwing stuff on the wall to see what sticks. The yoke didn't stick. Tesla listened to their customers and made the change. There are most likely hundreds of things we don't see that get better year over year simply because Tesla isn't afraid to just try it.

[@Glock7eventeen]

@@donm2255the yoke had many quality issues, they would break really easily and it was a big fiasco.

[@DanielAirthNelson]

Extremely well said, thanks for explaining the details so well on the limitations of the Model S

[@RobertMacCready]

As a former Plaid owner (sold mine just a few months ago) I enjoyed the review. The car is crazy fast and really begs for carbon ceramic brakes. FINALLY, they have arrived, but I must say the track pkg. looks terrific. And the "real" steering wheel is another great option.

[@BadTomzi]

The perfect daily.

[@larryc1616]

and super-hyper car killer 💀

[@muhammadshalaby1299]

The best Tesla S Plaid review ever

[@neohimself]

Great car, great review, great presenter!😁

[@joshuawolftexas]

Great comment

[@macmovieman1]

My wife and I have a plaid model, S and a plaid model X, and both have the yolk. I was surprised how quickly we got used to it, and I will never go back to a round steering wheel. Also, in the software you can select the car to automatically select the direction rather than use your finger and there’s a secondary option that you can’t see just below where you charge your phone where you can push and hold to put it in gear..

[@apostolakisl]

Totally agree. I love the yoke. I do not love the haptic turn signal however. Hate it in fact. The only thing I would change about the car. I don't need a stalk, but at least a real switch or button or something. The haptic buttons suck for turn signal.

[@macmovieman1]

@@apostolakisl I don’t disagree.

[@s4awd2]

I was fine with the yoke and love how it looks until my daughter complained. I ended up doing the retrofit and couldn't be happier. It just makes the car so much more comfortable. Using it as a handle to get in and out, letting the wheel slide through your hands while you turn, and overall just so much more confidence while driving. Yes it does block the screen and looks a bit old school but man, it makes the car so much more driveable. It sucks that I had to pay $700 for a yoke to sit in the trunk :/

[@DeeperImageAutomotive]

I have a Model S Plaid with the Yoke and for normal driving it is fine, on a track that's a totally different story, which is what this video is about. I've tracked several of my ICE cars, including my McLaren, and I can't imagine catching an unintentional drift with a yoke, and not a traditional steering wheel. I haven't tracked my Model S yet because of the Yoke, and I know others have. As the reviewer mentioned, if the Plaid had a variable steering rack to increase radius or reduce depending on speed, steering angle, suspension load, etc. It would negate the need for a traditional wheel.

[@markjames2338]

I love the yoke, but I can see it being an issue on the track. I don’t care how fast it can do the ring, unlike many here who seems to need a track car. What I do know is every time I put that accelerator pedal to the floor my body dumps adrenaline and I’ve never had a car that can do that.

[@Uptownv]

The new headlights and taillights are beautiful. The design is timeless and still a very good looking car in my opinion.

[@geek7699]

I love the yoke wheel, took like 5 minutes to get used to. I dont see any issues turning or parking.

[@ajcsanders]

I test drove a Plaid the other day and the yoke was laugh-out-loud weird. I was grabbing for air at first and laughing at myself - knew it was a yoke but muscle memory! I took the car into a carpark and tried a few 3 point turns. It took me 10 minutes to get used to and overall I loved it. I loved the turn signals - so effortless, I loved the view, and I loved how easy it was to rest my hand on the corner of the yoke when driving on the highway. I hated the horn button. I tried the "trick" of covering all the buttons on the right and that only worked 1/3 times for me. If I was getting a new one I'd probably go for the yoke as the pros would feature more than the cons in every day use.

[@sheaandtesla4599]

Plaid model s is an insane machine I can’t wait for Cybertruck!

[@AllanSustainabilityFan]

I believe Tesla is working on the homologation of the tires for the EU, so hopefully they can be road legal there eventually as well.

[@rkan2]

At least you can fit a set in the back unlike with most cars this fast! I wonder if you can also get a tow hook with the plaid?? On the regular model you can now at least.

[@AllanSustainabilityFan]

@@rkan2 I'm not seeing a tow hook on the sedan models (S and 3), they seem to offer them on the SUV/CUV ones (Model X and Y) though. At least this is how the order page looks in the US, I believe in some markets it's an option? Not sure.

[@rkan2]

@@AllanSustainabilityFan In Europe since the beginning for Model 3 and since ~plaid for the Model S. Only as factory option though which is kind of lame. Though some ppl have actually gotten the necessary papers (VIN specific type rating) for their non factory tow hook equipped Model X at least...

[@maximborodyuk3773]

@@rkan2 and because of the weight you will go through set of tires in few good sessions. But hey, you could at least fit them in the way in! Not that you would need whats left of them on the way out of the track.

[@thomasreese2816]

​​​@@rkan2believe all models in Europe have the option for a tow hook

[@arvins.7064]

For the price I cannot think of a better daily.

[@lukabosnjak3829]

I cannot think of a better daily at any price (maby the Model X actually)

[@favesongslist]

It also has enhanced autopilot as basic for motorways I believe. Not sure how long FSD will be though, it will happen one day.

[@immu2k1]

Hands down the best review of the Plaid 👏

[@Mark-vc8bv]

Tesla haters not liking this one bit 😂😂😂😂😂

[@jedielder7970]

Nice video and very good points/review. Seems there are benefits to having a car that can hold its own on the track and be a daily driver. Thanks.

[@WilhelmCazimirovici]

Tesla Model S is the ultimate car.

[@Xbox360shenmue]

Great review, and to have such unbiased/objective journalism is a refreshing change

[@steveseeger]

You can put the car into gear with the screen off. The selectors are in the center console but only light up if the screen is off, you can faintly see them all the time too if you prefer to use them.

[@hiratiomasterson4009]

To be fair, at over 300km/h, pretty much all ICE engine cars would empty their tanks in less than 30 mins also. The difference is, of course, the recharge vs refuel time...

[@jimmyjohnson7883]

In the future electric cars could be built in a way that could allow a fairly quick change at battery swap station or track.

[@bob-qi4nr]

@@jimmyjohnson7883 So you know the future?

Sensational video.

[@chrism869]

That one moment was a close call, they fixed their brakes, good thinking from them. Only just reaching 200mph, it can do more for sure

[@lukabosnjak3829]

I would say 380kmh is realistic, rotors can do 22k rpm safely

[@chrism869]

@@lukabosnjak3829 yeah, but I imagine the brakes would be no Bueno at these speeds

[@lukabosnjak3829]

​@@chrism869 ? Did you even see what these brakes can do? Others are using cc that's made of multiple pieces, these ones seem to be manufactured similarly to the rotors themselves, easily good enough for that speeds, only question is when will one hack it and try to do that as it already did 350kmh year ago

[@Shadowed007]

@@lukabosnjak3829 though it showed 216 mph (345 kmh) the actual speed it did was 213 mph (340 kmh) before the driver ran out of run way. I think 380 is too optimistic , considering the too close to the claimed top speed of Roadster, but you never know, Elon said that they have new ideas in the future to make the motor spin even faster (maybe that's reserved for future roadster)

[@Cloxxki]

Depends. The drivetrain won't likely hang on to 1000 hp all the way to an empty battery. Cruising 321 kph in a Model S probably takes about 500 hp or so, but to get there would be a long story. At 1020 hp non-stop, prividing it keep on the road and keeps going straight, geared to allow for it, it should hit around 400-420 kph or so. It's a big car, but very slick and hardly any downforce. Bugatti Veyron (1001 hp) is lower but draggier and did 407 kph.

[@sigabiz]

Excellent review

[@xm3ntal620]

I was wondering what the changes were going to be when they annouced the track pack. You guys did a good job highlighting everything. I see no reason why the track pack plaid shouldn't decimate the taycans time at the ring. Hopefully they run it again.

[@pokest225]

​@@vivalaphill Taycan Turbo GT being spied testing as we speak.

[@pokest225]

Didn't the lap record Plaid had all the mods already fitted? It was far from basic standard Model S.

[@xm3ntal620]

@@pokest225 thought it was bone stock down to the tires but I could be wrong

[@pokest225]

@@xm3ntal620 since there's not any rules in nurburgring track records, I don't believe any manufacturer that says that the car is like the oem standard.

[@xm3ntal620]

@@pokest225 ok, I don't know what else to tell you 😂

[@sgneher]

Good to see a fashion designer doing car reviews.

[@sorka95032]

Why did it take so long to have a proper track review of the Plaid? It's been out for 2 years. Best review yet.

[@crxtodd16]

Nice. Sounds like they really fixed the weaknesses with the track package, especially those brakes.

[@ascended1924]

Just release the roadster.

[@larryc1616]

Winter is coming.. ..⚡️🇺🇸

[@adamgrundy4327]

for the gear changes their also hidden by the hazards if the screen doesn't turn on.

[@konstantinschuster7825]

Great video and good review. What a car!

[@cchromy]

I love the yoke! Took about a week to get used to but now prefer it 😊

[@oliverkirk3343]

I would have this in a heartbeat. Cannot wait to see it in the UK

[@aerodyneservices]

Too bad Tesla just Cancelled RWD production...

[@DennisCW]

great stance on the Model S

[@perra5910]

I love teslas cause they remind me of 1990’s german saloons. They were much faster than they looked yet were really practical and civilized when you want them to be.

[@MrMiladDavoodi]

I have a 2022 Model S for about a year now, and I changed out my Yoke for a wheel. It really transformed the car and made it enjoyable to drive. I have a modified C8 that I track, so the Model S is by far one of the best daily drivers out there. Even not having the Plaid, i still go 0-60 in 3.1. Everything else is the same

[@jannistsintsaris]

Wow Tesla is really kicking ass with that beast! What a dream car. 😍 Go Tesla 💪🏼

[@Dan-bl5nf]

Really good review!

[@sergiomessina2037]

Great review of the car. Very fair and a balanced one at that! This is a far cry from Jeremy Clarkson's review of the roadster Wayback when…

[@paulsasso3806]

I just got a regular S with the steering wheel, and now I’m replacing it with a yoke, for the better view and the more exotic feel. Also, the way I have my seating and controls set up, the wheel blocks the “hands on the wheel” white warning flash while cruising in autopilot. After missing a couple of those, it shuts off autopilot, then I have to pull off at an exit, stop, and put it in park to get autopilot back. A real pain. (I always keep at least one hand on the wheel, but the car doesn’t pick it up unless I’m puting the a good bit torque on it) I’m sure I’ll have no problem getting used to the yoke. Both Brooks at Drag Times and Marques Brownly say they quickly got the hang of it.

[@barath4545]

"like a labrador at an unsupervised buffet" I see we both know Labs well :D

[@jamesdorrell712]

It took me about an hour to acclimate to the yoke. I would definitely choose it over a standard wheel. Perhaps not for a track with sharp curves.

[@inciwillard991]

Same here, love the yoke.

[@ajcsanders]

I test drove a Plaid the other day and the yoke was laugh-out-loud weird. I was grabbing for air at first and laughing at myself - knew it was a yoke but muscle memory! I took the car into a carpark and tried a few 3 point turns. It took me 10 minutes to get used to and overall I loved it. I loved the turn signals - so effortless, I loved the view, and I loved how easy it was to rest my hand on the corner of the yoke when driving on the highway. I hated the horn button. I tried the "trick" of covering all the buttons on the right and that only worked 1/3 times for me. If I was getting a new one I'd probably go for the yoke as the pros would feature more than the cons in every day use.

[@coolstuff8925]

Excellent review, thankyou. Yes, no yoke required.

[@brianfarley4372]

What a great review! I have a 3LR, which I love but for the first time I want an S Plaid.

[@CView]

Great review - Model S is the ultimate sleeper for sure, incredible Saloon but also the Millennium Falcon if you want it to be. The Roadster will hopefully satisfy the driving enthusiasts.

[@currycel470]

Sleepers? Every 12 yo kid knows Teslas are quick.

[@marco3710]

But not their dads.

[@joshnicholson2934]

Annoyingly good

[@Diordna11]

This guy is by far my favorite automotive reviewer!

[@marcovw6415]

Great conclusion. Its not the car for track use, but will surely do it.

[@iCozzh]

Absolutely incredible car. Still not a track car but the best all round daily by far.

[@tv-ld3wv]

Not the best track car But believe it or not it has world record with the stock plaid on Nürburgring Imagine the track package 🔥

[@AllanSustainabilityFan]

I think that's indeed subjective, as reviewer explained in his perspective. It may be a generational question here, some folks will want to experience to old nostalgia of gear shifting and zero safety restraints. But the younger generations just want the highest tech implementation of an electric platform to enjoy, they have not as much attachment to such concepts from the ICE era. Likewise the nostalgic ICE drivers generally have little interest in tracking with a horse of steam engine, so again all subjective.

[@currycel470]

​@@tv-ld3wv what record? None. Taycan turbo stole it a few months ago. And still slower than 400hp rs3 sedan lol.

[@lukabosnjak3829]

​@@currycel470 Taycan stole it with special model that's basically made for track and costs 250k and that was against Tesla on steel brakes, worse tires, 160mph limit and no even track mode... Now it has f1 tires and some of the best brakes in the industry, Taycan and your precious rs3 are screwed, actually new Ring time should be closer to 911 turbo s than the Taycan

[@iCozzh]

@@AllanSustainabilityFan plenty of young people adore ice and hate evs. Im 24 so would still count as being young iguess, i own an s2000 and working towards an R35 GTR. One day i’d love a tesla as a perfect daily and leave ICE for the weekends

[@YOUSADSACK]

Brilliant final line😂

[@lighthousesaunders7242]

"The thing is, if you're talking about faster than Ludicrous, the question isn't why, but why not."

[@cornbread70s4]

Love your interview Tom(& your name is popular suit and cologne brand ☺️). The gear selector has 2 options: the screen as you’ve shown, and there’s a default , hidden “PRND” selector around the hazard button. Again, great review!

[@hannesdt4927]

5:00 There's a backup on the same plastic lid where the hazard lights switch is.

[@danny355]

Awesome review. Not sure there is a better car for £100k. For drag races and long journeys, it wins. I wouldn't track it much, like Tom says, you need something with gear stick. Talking of which, I miss classic 5th gear.

[@colinmyers273]

You can still shift the plaid if the screen is broken. The gear selectors are under the charging pads on the panic switch bar.

[@skip741x3]

Wow, Finally, the option for a proper steering wheel to control that beast! the tilting twords driver screen, total dream car! cant afford though

[@apostolakisl]

Of note: "In case you have some sort of screen melt down" The touch screen is not the only way to put the car in "gear". If the touch screen doesn't boot properly, you can control the PRNDL from the center console. If the touch screen doesn't boot up immediately, the center console activates. I have this happen maybe once every few weeks, though the screen always has booted up, just sometimes it takes a few seconds in which case it also activates the center console. But I have never had to use the center console.

[@chiemekaa]

I guess the round steering wheel is back. Finally!

[@EvendimataE]

the interior of teslas are the most minimalist...they are my favorite.....im 55, too busy interior gives me migraine....LOL

[@inciwillard991]

I'm 71 and you are right about too many buttons, etc. is too much and the voice control does everything I need without bothering with the screen.Summon is also fantastic to peel your car off from tight places.

[@iandavis8725]

Still can’t believe Tesla doesn’t offer HUD though.

[@MrLg55555]

The most minimalist and shockingly poor quality, along with fit and finish... A really nice place to be...😂😂😂 And before you shout from the rooftops that I have never driven or owned one, I had a model 3 on reservation when they were launched here in the UK, but after having a good look at a couple owned by work colleagues, I took back my reservation fee... I have stated on a number of occasions that the build and interior materials quality, fit and finish are no better than a 30 yr old Renault 5... Shockingly poor at best... Plus way overpriced...

[@EvendimataE]

@@MrLg55555 i did not say anything about quality.....what i said i like is their being super minimalist...and im only talking about the interior....and i dont even intend to buy one...i only buy toyotas....i just wish interior of toyotas are that simple

[@jorgeluiscapiello414]

This is just amazing!!!

[@ethan999oz]

The new tail lights look so dope. I hated the old ones.