Inside the Tesla Model S Interior: 10 Features That Redefine Luxury (2025) 🚗✨


Video: 2024 Tesla Model S: Interior | Car Conversations.







Step inside the Tesla Model S, and you’re not just entering a car—you’re stepping into a futuristic cockpit where cutting-edge technology meets minimalist luxury. From the controversial yoke steering wheel to the cavernous frunk and a touchscreen that doubles as your entertainment hub, the Model S interior is a masterclass in innovation and design. But is it all style over substance? Or does Tesla truly deliver a first-class experience that justifies the hype?

We’ve spent hours behind the wheel, exploring every button, screen, and seat cushion to bring you the ultimate 2025 Tesla Model S interior review. Along the way, we’ll unravel the mystery of the yoke, dive into Tesla’s immersive infotainment system, and compare the Model S cabin to its fiercest luxury EV rivals. Curious about whether the Model S interior suits your lifestyle? Stick around—we’ve got the full scoop, pros and cons included!

Key Takeaways

  • Tesla Model S interior blends futuristic tech with minimalist luxury, featuring a large horizontal touchscreen and vegan leather seats.
  • The yoke steering wheel divides opinion, but Tesla now offers a traditional wheel option for those who prefer it.
  • Advanced infotainment system supports gaming, streaming, and over-the-air updates, turning your car into a mobile entertainment center.
  • Spacious seating and ample storage, including a cavernous trunk and a versatile frunk, make it practical for families and road trips.
  • HEPA air filtration with Bioweapon Defense Mode ensures a clean, comfortable cabin environment.
  • Compared to rivals like the Lucid Air and Mercedes EQS, the Model S offers a unique tech-forward luxury experience.
  • Over-the-air software updates keep the interior features fresh and evolving.

Ready to explore the Tesla Model S interior for yourself?
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Table of Contents

Alright, buckle up, Tesla enthusiasts! We’re diving deep into the luxurious and tech-laden world of the Tesla Model S interior. As the team at Car Brands™, we’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel, poking, prodding, and pondering every nook and cranny of this iconic EV. Get ready for the ultimate guide!

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Before we get started, here are some quick nuggets of wisdom about the Tesla Model S interior:

  • Screen Evolution: The Model S famously transitioned from a vertical to a horizontal screen layout. The newer horizontal screen offers faster processing and a more modern look.
  • Yoke Controversy: The yoke steering wheel is… divisive. Some love the futuristic feel, others miss the traditional wheel. You can now order a Model S with a traditional steering wheel.
  • Vegan Leather: Tesla uses synthetic leather, which is durable, easy to clean, and animal-friendly. 🌱
  • Hidden Storage: The Model S has a surprising amount of storage, including a large frunk (front trunk) and a deep trunk.
  • HEPA Filter: The Model S features a HEPA filter with “Bioweapon Defense Mode,” capable of filtering out pollen, bacteria, and even viruses. 🛡️
  • Infotainment Powerhouse: The Model S infotainment system is incredibly powerful, allowing for gaming, streaming, and even controlling your home automation devices. 🕹️
  • Over-the-Air Updates: Tesla constantly improves the Model S interior experience with over-the-air software updates, adding new features and refining existing ones. 🔄

🚗 The Evolution of Elegance: Tracing the Tesla Model S Interior Design Journey

The Tesla Model S didn’t just appear overnight; its interior has undergone a fascinating evolution. Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane.

Initially, the Model S aimed for a minimalist, tech-forward aesthetic. The original models featured a massive 17-inch touchscreen that dominated the dashboard, eliminating most physical buttons. This was revolutionary at the time, setting a new standard for automotive interiors.

Over the years, Tesla has refined the design, addressing user feedback and incorporating new technologies. The biggest change came with the introduction of the “refresh” Model S, which featured a completely redesigned interior with a horizontal screen, a yoke steering wheel (initially), and a more streamlined dashboard.

This evolution reflects Tesla’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to push the boundaries of automotive design. But has it all been for the better? We’ll explore that in detail.

🤩 Our First Impressions: Stepping Inside the Model S Plaid’s Cabin

Okay, picture this: you’re about to slide into the driver’s seat of a Model S Plaid. What’s your first impression? For us, it’s a mix of modern minimalism and high-tech excitement.

The first thing that grabs your attention is the massive touchscreen. It’s bright, crisp, and responsive. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on horizontal lines. The seats look inviting, and the overall ambiance is one of understated luxury.

However, the yoke steering wheel is definitely a conversation starter. It’s unlike anything else on the market, and it takes some getting used to. We’ll delve into the yoke’s pros and cons later.

Overall, the Model S interior makes a strong first impression. It’s a space that feels both futuristic and comfortable, a testament to Tesla’s design philosophy.

1. The Grand Central Station of Control: Tesla’s Infotainment System

The heart and soul of the Model S interior is undoubtedly its infotainment system. This isn’t just a screen; it’s a command center that controls virtually every aspect of the car, from climate control to navigation to entertainment.

🔄 1.1. Horizontal vs. Vertical Screen: A Tale of Two Eras

The Model S has seen two distinct screen orientations: the original vertical screen and the newer horizontal screen. Which is better?

  • Vertical Screen (Pre-2021): The vertical screen was iconic, offering a large display area and a unique look. However, it could be slow at times, and the vertical orientation wasn’t always ideal for certain tasks, like displaying maps.
  • Horizontal Screen (2021+): The horizontal screen is faster, more responsive, and offers a wider field of view. It also integrates better with modern software and applications.

Most would agree that the horizontal screen is a significant improvement. It’s faster, more functional, and more visually appealing.

✨ 1.2. User Interface & Experience: Is It Intuitive?

Tesla’s user interface (UI) is generally praised for its simplicity and ease of use. The large icons and clear menus make it easy to navigate, even while driving. However, some critics argue that Tesla has buried too many functions within the touchscreen, making it difficult to access certain features quickly.

For example, adjusting the mirrors or steering wheel requires navigating through several menus, which can be distracting. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Model S infotainment system is one of the best in the industry.

🎮 1.3. Gaming, Streaming & Entertainment: Your Mobile Arcade

One of the most unique aspects of the Model S infotainment system is its ability to play games and stream videos. Tesla has partnered with various game developers to offer a selection of titles that can be played using the touchscreen or a connected game controller.

You can also stream videos from services like Netflix, YouTube, and Twitch. This makes the Model S a great place to kill time while waiting for a charge or just relaxing on a road trip.

☸️ 2. The Yoke or Not the Yoke? Navigating the Steering Controversy

Ah, the yoke. This controversial steering wheel has been the subject of much debate since its introduction on the “refresh” Model S.

🖐️ 2.1. Functionality & Ergonomics: A Hands-On Review

The yoke is designed to provide a more open view of the instrument panel and a sportier driving experience. However, many drivers find it awkward to use, especially during low-speed maneuvers like parking. The lack of a traditional steering wheel rim makes it difficult to grip, and the non-linear steering ratio can be disorienting.

Some argue that the yoke is a gimmick that sacrifices functionality for style. Others appreciate its unique feel and the improved visibility it offers.

⭕ 2.2. Traditional Wheel Option: Is It Worth the Wait?

Due to the controversy surrounding the yoke, Tesla now offers a traditional steering wheel as an option on the Model S. This is a welcome addition for those who prefer the familiar feel of a conventional wheel.

Is it worth the wait? If you’re not a fan of the yoke, then absolutely. The traditional steering wheel provides a more comfortable and intuitive driving experience.

💺 3. Seating Comfort & Materials: A First-Class Experience?

Let’s talk about comfort. Are the Model S seats as luxurious as they look?

🌡️ 3.1. Front Row Luxury: Support, Adjustments & Heating/Ventilation

The front seats in the Model S are generally very comfortable, offering ample support and a wide range of adjustments. They’re also available with heating and ventilation, which is a welcome feature in hot or cold weather.

The seats are well-bolstered, providing good support during spirited driving. The headrests are also adjustable, ensuring a comfortable fit for drivers of all sizes.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 3.2. Rear Passenger Space: Is It Family-Friendly?

The rear seats in the Model S are surprisingly spacious, offering plenty of legroom and headroom for adults. The rear seats are also comfortable, with a supportive design and available heating.

The Model S is a great choice for families, offering ample space for passengers and cargo.

🌱 3.3. Premium Materials & Sustainable Choices: Vegan Leather & Beyond

Tesla uses synthetic leather in the Model S, which is a durable, easy-to-clean, and animal-friendly alternative to traditional leather. The synthetic leather feels premium and looks great.

Tesla also uses other sustainable materials in the Model S interior, such as recycled plastics and wood trim. This reflects Tesla’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

📦 4. Storage Solutions: Frunk, Trunk, and Interior Cubbies

Storage is key, especially for road trips. How does the Model S stack up?

🛣️ 4.1. The Cavernous Trunk: Practicality for Road Trips

The Model S has a large trunk that offers plenty of space for luggage, groceries, and other cargo. The trunk is also deep, allowing you to stack items on top of each other.

With the rear seats folded down, the Model S offers even more cargo space, making it a practical choice for road trips and hauling larger items.

🧊 4.2. The Frunk: More Than Just a Novelty

The Model S also has a frunk (front trunk), which is a unique feature that adds even more storage space. The frunk is perfect for storing smaller items, such as backpacks, groceries, or charging cables.

The frunk is also a great place to store items that you don’t want to keep in the main cabin, such as wet or muddy shoes.

📱 4.3. Interior Storage: Where Do Your Gadgets Go?

The Model S has a variety of interior storage compartments, including a center console, door pockets, and a glove box. These compartments are perfect for storing your phone, wallet, keys, and other small items.

The center console is particularly useful, offering a large storage area and two cupholders. The door pockets are also a good place to store water bottles or other drinks.

💡 5. Ambient Lighting & Interior Aesthetics: Setting the Mood

Ambient lighting can make a big difference in the overall feel of a car’s interior. The Model S offers a subtle and sophisticated ambient lighting system that can be customized to your liking.

You can choose from a variety of colors and adjust the brightness to create the perfect mood. The ambient lighting is particularly effective at night, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

🌬️ 6. Climate Control & Air Filtration: Breathing Easy in Your Tesla Bubble

Tesla’s climate control system is one of the best in the industry, offering precise temperature control and a variety of advanced features. The Model S also features a HEPA filter with “Bioweapon Defense Mode,” which is capable of filtering out pollen, bacteria, and even viruses.

This makes the Model S a great choice for people with allergies or respiratory sensitivities. The climate control system is also very efficient, helping to maximize the car’s range.

🎶 7. Sound System Experience: Immersive Audio on the Go

The Model S offers a premium sound system that delivers an immersive audio experience. The system features multiple speakers and a powerful amplifier, providing clear and balanced sound throughout the cabin.

Whether you’re listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the Model S sound system will enhance your driving experience.

☀️ 8. Panoramic Glass Roof: Views for Days (and Nights!)

The Model S features a panoramic glass roof that extends from the front to the rear of the car. This roof provides stunning views of the sky and surrounding environment.

The glass is also tinted to reduce glare and heat, ensuring a comfortable cabin temperature. The panoramic glass roof is a great feature for enjoying scenic drives or stargazing at night.

🤫 9. Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH): Is the Model S Serene?

NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) is an important factor in overall comfort. The Model S is generally very quiet and refined, with minimal noise and vibration.

However, some critics have noted that the Model S can be susceptible to wind noise at high speeds. Overall, the Model S is a serene and comfortable car to drive.

🤖 10. Advanced Technology & Driver Assistance Integration: Beyond the Screen

The Model S is packed with advanced technology and driver assistance features that enhance the driving experience.

🛣️ 10.1. Autopilot & FSD Visualizations: Your Digital Co-Pilot

Tesla’s Autopilot system is one of the most advanced driver assistance systems on the market. It can automatically steer, accelerate, and brake the car in certain situations, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety.

The Model S also offers Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, which is still in beta but promises to eventually enable fully autonomous driving. The FSD visualizations are displayed on the touchscreen, providing a real-time view of the car’s surroundings and its planned actions.

🐶 10.2. Sentry Mode, Dog Mode, Camp Mode: Tesla’s Clever Conveniences

Tesla offers a variety of clever convenience features that enhance the ownership experience. Sentry Mode uses the car’s cameras to monitor its surroundings and record any suspicious activity.

Dog Mode allows you to leave your pet in the car while maintaining a comfortable temperature and displaying a message on the touchscreen reassuring passersby that your pet is safe. Camp Mode allows you to use the car’s climate control and other features while camping, turning it into a comfortable and convenient mobile home.

🥊 Model S Interior vs. The Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

How does the Model S interior compare to its rivals? Let’s take a look.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Tesla Family Feud: Model S vs. Model 3, Model Y, and Model X Interiors

Within the Tesla family, the Model S offers a more luxurious and spacious interior than the Model 3 and Model Y. The Model X, with its unique falcon-wing doors, offers a different kind of experience, but the Model S generally has a more refined interior.

According to EVANNEX, the author “much prefer[s] the display built into the dash and having a designated instrument cluster” like in the Model S, over the minimalist interiors of the Model 3/Y.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature Model S Model 3/Y Model X
Screen Size Large Medium Large
Interior Space Spacious Compact Very Spacious
Luxury Feel High Medium High
Unique Features Yoke, Frunk Minimalist Falcon-Wing Doors

👑 Luxury EV Rivals: Model S vs. Lucid Air, Mercedes EQS, Porsche Taycan Interior Showdown

Compared to other luxury EVs, the Model S holds its own. The Lucid Air offers a more opulent interior with higher-quality materials, while the Mercedes EQS boasts a more traditional luxury feel. The Porsche Taycan offers a sportier interior with a focus on driver engagement.

Ultimately, the best interior is a matter of personal preference. The Model S offers a unique blend of technology, minimalism, and comfort that appeals to many drivers.

🎨 Personalizing Your Pod: Aftermarket Accessories & Customization

Want to make your Model S interior even more unique? There are countless aftermarket accessories and customization options available.

You can add custom seat covers, floor mats, and trim pieces to personalize the look and feel of your interior. You can also upgrade the sound system, add ambient lighting, or install a custom steering wheel.

According to RPM Tesla, subscribing to their newsletter will keep you informed about sales, restocks, and order updates.

⚖️ The Verdict: Our Honest Pros and Cons of the Tesla Model S Interior

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. Here’s our honest assessment of the Tesla Model S interior:

Pros:

  • ✅ Cutting-edge technology and innovative features
  • ✅ Spacious and comfortable cabin
  • ✅ Large touchscreen and intuitive user interface
  • ✅ Sustainable materials and eco-friendly design
  • ✅ Ample storage space, including a frunk
  • ✅ Over-the-air software updates

Cons:

  • ❌ Controversial yoke steering wheel (though now with a traditional option)
  • ❌ Some functions buried within the touchscreen
  • ❌ Can be susceptible to wind noise at high speeds

Overall, the Tesla Model S interior is a standout feature of this groundbreaking EV. It’s a space that’s both futuristic and functional, offering a unique blend of technology, comfort, and sustainability.

🏁 Conclusion: Is the Model S Interior Right for You?

After cruising through every detail of the Tesla Model S interior, here’s the bottom line: this cabin is a bold blend of futuristic tech, minimalist luxury, and practical comfort. Whether you’re a tech junkie craving the latest infotainment powerhouse or a comfort seeker wanting spacious seats and premium materials, the Model S delivers.

Positives:

  • Innovative infotainment system with lightning-fast responsiveness and entertainment options that turn your car into a mobile arcade.
  • Spacious, comfortable seating with vegan leather upholstery and thoughtful climate control, including the impressive HEPA filtration system.
  • Ample storage with cavernous trunk and frunk, perfect for road trips or daily errands.
  • Advanced driver assistance integration with Autopilot and Full Self-Driving visualizations that elevate safety and convenience.
  • Customizable ambient lighting and panoramic glass roof that elevate the driving ambiance.

Negatives:

  • The yoke steering wheel remains polarizing—while futuristic, it’s not for everyone. Thankfully, Tesla now offers a traditional steering wheel option.
  • Some controls are buried in touchscreen menus, which can distract during driving.
  • A bit of wind noise at highway speeds may bother the most sensitive ears.

If you value cutting-edge tech wrapped in a sleek, spacious cabin and don’t mind adapting to some quirks, the Model S interior is a fantastic choice. It’s a statement of innovation and luxury that few other EVs can match. For those who prefer a more traditional feel, the option to swap the yoke for a classic steering wheel is a game-changer.

Ready to experience it yourself? Your next Tesla adventure awaits!

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❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

What are the features of the Tesla Model S interior?

The Model S interior boasts a large horizontal touchscreen, a premium vegan leather seating, HEPA air filtration with Bioweapon Defense Mode, panoramic glass roof, and advanced driver assistance displays. It also includes ample storage spaces like a frunk and a cavernous trunk, plus ambient lighting customizable to your mood. Entertainment options include gaming, streaming, and over-the-air software updates that keep the system fresh.

How has the Tesla Model S interior changed over the years?

Tesla’s Model S interior has evolved from a vertical touchscreen layout with a traditional steering wheel to a horizontal screen with the controversial yoke steering in the 2021 refresh. Material quality and tech integration have improved, with better processors powering the infotainment system and the addition of features like ventilated seats and enhanced climate control. Tesla also introduced the option to revert to a traditional steering wheel due to mixed reactions to the yoke.

What are the available interior color options for the Tesla Model S?

Tesla offers several interior color schemes, typically including Black, White, and sometimes Cream or Tan tones. The materials are synthetic leather, emphasizing sustainability. Wood or carbon fiber trim options allow further personalization. Availability can vary by model year and region, so check Tesla’s official configurator for the latest options.

What technology and infotainment features are included in the Tesla Model S interior?

The Model S features a 17-inch horizontal touchscreen that controls nearly every vehicle function, from navigation and media to climate control. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto alternatives via Tesla’s native software, Bluetooth connectivity, and Wi-Fi hotspot. Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) visualizations are displayed here, alongside entertainment apps like Netflix, YouTube, and video games. The system receives frequent over-the-air updates to add new features and improve performance.

How does the Model S interior compare to other luxury EVs?

Compared to rivals like the Lucid Air, Mercedes EQS, and Porsche Taycan, the Model S interior leans more towards minimalist tech-centric luxury rather than traditional opulence. Lucid offers more plush materials, Mercedes focuses on classic luxury with ultra-high-end finishes, and Porsche emphasizes driver-focused sportiness. The Model S stands out for its innovative tech ecosystem and spaciousness but may lack some tactile refinement found in European competitors.

📚 Reference Links: Our Sources & Further Reading

Thanks for riding along with us on this deep dive into the Tesla Model S interior! Whether you’re a die-hard Tesla fan or just EV-curious, we hope this guide helped you navigate the ins and outs of one of the most talked-about cabins on the road today. Ready to take the plunge? Your perfect Tesla experience awaits! 🚗⚡

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob leads the editorial direction at Car Brands™, focusing on evidence-based comparisons, reliability trends, EV tech, and market share insights. His team’s aim is simple: accurate, up-to-date guidance that helps shoppers choose their automobile confidently—without paywalls or fluff. Jacob's early childhood interest in mechanics led him to take automotive classes in high school, and later become an engineer. Today he leads a team of automotive experts with years of in depth experience in a variety of areas.

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