2012 Tesla Model S: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Tesla Model S was an all-new model and the first year of Tesla’s electric sedan. First customer deliveries began on June 22, 2012.
About the 2012 Tesla Model S
1st generation, first model year
Tesla positioned the Model S as a premium sedan built as an EV from the start, not a gasoline car converted to electric power. The pitch centered on big-sedan room, a front trunk made possible by the missing engine, strong range for the time, instant electric response, and a cabin defined by a giant touchscreen instead of traditional buttons. Against other luxury sedans, its main difference was combining premium-car space, style, and speed with zero tailpipe emissions.
The regular-production Model S focused on the core experience: a roomy five-door cabin, a 17-inch touchscreen, a front trunk, and a folding rear seat. Limited-run Signature models bundled an 85-kWh battery with navigation, upgraded audio, and faster onboard charging, while Performance versions added a 416-hp motor and sport-focused suspension tuning.
What changed, by category
2012 Tesla Model S specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 362 hp | 416 hp | 416 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 325 lb-ft | 443 lb-ft | 443 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 31.6 cu-ft | 31.6 cu-ft | 31.6 cu-ft | 31.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.4 in | 35.4 in | 35.4 in | 35.4 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 265 | 265 | 265 | 265 |
| MPGe Combined | 89 | 89 | 89 | 89 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was 2012 the first year of the Tesla Model S?
Yes. The 2012 Model S was the first production year, with initial customer deliveries beginning on June 22, 2012.
Was the 2012 Tesla Model S all-wheel drive?
No. The 2012 Model S launch lineup used rear-wheel drive rather than AWD.
Did every 2012 Tesla Model S have the 17-inch touchscreen?
Yes. The 17-inch touchscreen was fitted across the 2012 lineup and controlled media, climate functions, and vehicle settings.
What was special about the 2012 Model S Signature models?
The 2012 Signature models were limited-run early-delivery editions with an 85-kWh battery and bundled features such as navigation, upgraded audio, air suspension, and twin onboard chargers. Signature Performance paired that equipment with the stronger 416-hp motor.
What cargo areas did the 2012 Tesla Model S have?
The 2012 Model S had a front trunk and a rear cargo area reached through a large hatch. Its split-folding rear seat provided additional room for larger items.