95 MPG combined is not just impressive, it transforms a performance sedan with all-wheel drive and acceleration that rivals supercars. The 2016 Tesla Model S P90D wasn’t bought for thriftiness, but the efficiency with which it delivers face-melting speed is a key part of its appeal. This vehicle redefined expectations, proving that electric cars could be both breathtakingly fast and surprisingly economical to “fuel”. It’s a statement car, a technological showcase, and a practical family vehicle all rolled into one sleek package, and its fuel economy is simply the icing on the cake.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2016 Tesla Model S P90D at 91 MPG in the city and 100 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the inherent efficiency of electric motors, which excel in stop-and-go conditions due to regenerative braking. The highway figure is also notable; the Model S can maintain impressive efficiency even at higher speeds, a trait not always shared by early electric vehicles. Weather, driving style, cargo, and tire pressure all affect these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Tesla Model S P90D at $800 per year. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using national average electricity prices. It’s a significant saving compared to traditional gasoline-powered performance sedans, where annual fuel costs can easily triple or even quadruple. While electricity prices vary by location and time of day, the Model S P90D consistently delivers a lower running cost than its petrol-powered counterparts, a tangible benefit that adds to the ownership experience. Check all Tesla fuel economy data to see how this compares.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the 2016 Tesla Model S P90D can vary depending on several factors. Aggressive driving, particularly frequent use of the car’s prodigious acceleration, will reduce efficiency. Cold weather can significantly impact battery performance, leading to a decrease in range. Conversely, careful driving, preconditioning the battery, and using regenerative braking effectively can help drivers achieve or surpass the EPA estimates. Most owners find the EPA numbers to be a reasonable reflection of their driving habits. Some drivers have successfully used the car for cross country trips.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sedans of its era, the 2016 Tesla Model S P90D stands apart because of its electric drivetrain. A 2016 BMW M5, for example, manages just 17 MPG combined, highlighting the dramatic difference in fuel consumption between electric and gasoline-powered performance vehicles. Even hybrid options like the 2016 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, rated at 50 MPGe combined, fall short of the Model S P90D’s efficiency. The Model S’s efficiency wasn’t a happy accident; it’s integral to its design. Buyers cross-shop with models like the Porsche Taycan, which manages around 79 MPGe, but also value the Tesla’s charging network and pioneering image. Curious about MODEL MPG across all years? Electric efficiency is simply part of the Tesla deal.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. The Tesla Model S P90D allows for adjustable regenerative braking settings. Maximize regen to recover energy during deceleration, effectively turning the motor into a generator to recharge the battery. This is especially useful in city driving with frequent stops.

Precondition the battery before driving. In cold weather, preheating the battery while the car is plugged in can improve range and efficiency. This draws power from the grid rather than the battery, preserving its energy for driving. Pre-cooling the cabin in hot weather while plugged in pre-conditions the whole system for maximum efficiency.

Adjust your driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and maintain a steady speed on the highway. Smooth, consistent driving conserves energy and maximizes range. While the Model S P90D’s rapid acceleration is undeniably tempting, resist the urge to use it excessively if you want to optimize efficiency.

Monitor tire pressure regularly. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. A tire pressure gauge is a inexpensive tool that will pay off in the long run.

Use Range Mode (if equipped). Some versions of the Model S include a Range Mode that limits top speed and reduces energy consumption. Activating this mode can extend your range, particularly on longer trips. This isn’t a mode most P90D drivers use daily, but for maximum range it can be helpful.