Tesla Model S – Welcome Irish arrival of most hyped car of the decade

Tesla Model S

At last, in 2017, what is possibly the most-hyped car of the decade (century, even?) arrived in Ireland as Tesla opened its first dealership (in Sandyford, south Dublin) and its first Supercharger fast-charging station (it’s in Ballacolla, County Laois, with others will be coming online soon) and the Model S finally rolled an (official) wheel on Irish tarmac.

model s

Was it worth the wait? Does it live up to the hype? Yes, and then again, no. The Model S is actually quite handsome up close, and that cabin, with the enormous central touchscreen, is both striking and luxurious in a slightly minimalist sense.

The electric powertrain is amazing, both for its raw acceleration in ‘Ludicrous Mode’ and its range, which makes anxiety a thing of the past.

But it’s only ordinary to drive, and worse, its build quality is not up to scratch. Poor panel fit and cabin rattles in a €100,000-plus car that competes with an S-Class? Sorry, not good enough.

Best model: May as well go nuts and get a P100D

Prices start from: €97,674

Finance package from: €877

CO2 emissions: 0g/km

Sum-up: Yes, it’s a game changer, but it needs to up its quality game