2013 Tesla Model S: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2013 Tesla Model S mostly carries over from its June 2012 launch. Its biggest change is the shift from launch-edition Signature cars toward a regular lineup centered on base and Performance versions.
About the 2013 Tesla Model S
1st generation (2012-2020), first full model year after the June 2012 launch.
Tesla positions the Model S as a premium American electric sedan built from the ground up as an EV, not an adapted gas car. The core appeal is big real-world range for its era, very quick acceleration, a spacious cabin, huge cargo flexibility with both rear cargo space and a front trunk, and a large touchscreen-centered cabin that felt far ahead of other luxury cars at the time. That mix of long-range EV usability, straight-line speed, and tech-first design is what sets it apart.
The base Model S is the core premium electric sedan, with rear-wheel drive, a 17-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, and cargo areas at both ends. Performance pairs an 85-kWh battery with a 416-hp rear motor and active air suspension. Signature versions retain their launch-edition focus, adding richer leather and convenience equipment such as keyless entry and a power liftgate.
What changed, by category
2013 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 | 208 | 265 | 265 | 265 |
| MPGe Combined | 95 | 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 | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2013 Tesla Model S?
The biggest change is the move from the launch-focused Signature editions toward a regular retail lineup centered on base and Performance versions. The car’s overall design and basic layout remain largely unchanged from its 2012 introduction.
Did the 2013 Tesla Model S have a 40-kWh battery version?
No production 40-kWh version was delivered as originally planned. Tesla canceled it later in the model year and fulfilled existing orders with a 60-kWh battery limited by software to provide less usable capacity.
How did the 2013 Model S interior change from 2012?
Front-seat heating and power adjustment were extended more broadly across the lineup for 2013. The cabin’s defining 17-inch touchscreen carried over without a major redesign.
Was the 2013 Tesla Model S redesigned?
No, the 2013 Model S was not redesigned. It was the first full model year after the June 2012 launch, with trim and equipment updates rather than major styling, chassis, or safety changes.
What distinguishes the 2013 Model S Performance?
The 2013 Performance combines an 85-kWh battery with a 416-hp rear motor, active air suspension, sport-tuned stability controls, and a leather-trimmed cabin. It is the acceleration-focused version of the early Model S lineup.