The 2019 Tesla Model S 100D gets an EPA-rated 102 MPGe combined. That’s transformative for a vehicle of its size, performance, and luxury. This isn’t a stripped-down economy car; it’s a high-performance electric sedan capable of fast acceleration and covering long distances, while offering a quiet, comfortable ride. Model S 100D buyers aren’t simply chasing fuel savings. They’re seeking a performance experience that produces less guilt, and the exceptional MPGe allows them to enjoy the power without needing to visit gas stations.

City and highway performance

The EPA says the Model S 100D gets 101 MPGe in the city and 102 MPGe on the highway. This consistency shows how efficient the Tesla’s electric powertrain is in different driving situations. Electric motors perform well in stop-and-go traffic because of regenerative braking. Regenerative braking captures energy when the car slows down and returns it to the battery, which reduces wasted energy. On the highway, the Model S 100D remains efficient because of its aerodynamic design and the inherently efficient nature of electric propulsion at steady speeds. Owners can be confident that whether commuting in the city or taking long road trips, the Model S 100D provides predictably excellent energy consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Tesla Model S 100D at $750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and uses a national average electricity price. It’s important to know that this is an estimate, your actual cost will vary depending on driving habits, local electricity costs, and how much charging you do at home versus at public charging stations, which may have higher rates. Charging at home, especially during off-peak hours, can lower costs, making the Model S 100D more economical. $750 annually is significantly lower than comparable luxury sedans, making it a strong selling point.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are a benchmark, but real-world MPGe can change based on several things. Fast acceleration, frequent climate control use, and even the outside temperature can affect battery range and MPGe. A lead foot will drain the battery faster, and running the air conditioning or heater will draw more power. Cold weather, especially, can hurt battery performance. However, even with these factors, most Model S 100D owners say they achieve MPGe numbers close to the EPA estimates. Efficient driving and using the Tesla’s energy consumption display can help you monitor and improve energy use.

How it compares

The 2019 Tesla Model S 100D is unique among luxury performance sedans. The Mercedes-Benz S560, a comparable gasoline-powered luxury sedan, gets around 22 MPG combined. Even hybrid luxury sedans struggle to match the Model S 100D’s efficiency, with models like the Lexus LS 500h getting approximately 29 MPG combined. The all-electric Jaguar I-Pace gets around 76 MPGe, which is closer to the Tesla. But the Jaguar has a smaller footprint. The Model S 100D offers better practicality and range than most competitors. This makes it a leader in the electric vehicle segment, especially for those who want both performance and efficiency. Remember you can analyze all Tesla fuel economy data to get a better sense of their lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Intentionally use regenerative braking. The Model S 100D has adjustable regenerative braking settings. Recover more energy by selecting a higher regenerative braking level. The car will slow down more when you lift off the accelerator. This reduces the need for friction brakes and converts kinetic energy to electricity, increasing your range.

Precondition the battery before driving. In cold weather, preconditioning the battery while the car is plugged in can improve range. This warms the battery to its ideal operating temperature using grid power, rather than battery power. In hot weather, pre-cooling the cabin before driving reduces the initial load on the air conditioning.

Adjust driving speed on the highway. Aerodynamic drag increases greatly with speed. Reducing your highway speed from 80 mph to 70 mph can improve energy efficiency. Use the Tesla’s energy graph to watch the impact of speed on consumption and find the best speed to maximize range on long trips. Before buying, research the MODEL MPG across all years to understand how Tesla technology has progressed.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. This maintenance task can improve MPGe and extend tire life.

Reduce unneeded weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle consumes more energy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to reduce the load on the powertrain and improve efficiency. While the impact may seem small, it can help maximize the range of your Model S 100D.