Tesla Model S 70D is the new 4WD entry level model – costs from £54,500

Tesla has revealed a new entry-level model for its Model S range, with the new 70D replacing the 60D in the range and offering 4WD and 275 mile range.

Tesla dropped its original entry-level model S before anyone could really buy it, since when the entry-point for Model S ownership has been the 60kWh version. But now, even that’s bitten the dust as the Model S 70D arrives as the new entry point for the Model S.

That means Tesla’s UK range is now all 4WD, with the new 70D joining the 85D and P85D as the full Model S range, with the new 70D costing from £54,500 (once the taxpayer has lobbed in their bribe) rising to £79,100 for the P85D.

But really, it’s hard to complain; the 70D does move the game on for Tesla and we can’t see buyers getting too upset at losing the RWD Model S 60.

That’s because the 70D delivers a total of 507bhp through its two electric motors – one for each axle – and can get to 60mph in 5.2 seconds and has a range of 275 miles (but not if you spend your whole drive exploiting its performance, needless to say).

The 70D also gets Supercharger Network access included, Keyless, Parking Sensors, power mirrors, LED running lights, Homelink, Lane Departure and Maps and Nav as standard, although you’ll pay more for some of the stuff you’d like, such as Autopilot (£2100), Smart Air Suspension (£2100), Upgraded Sound £2100) and the Premium Package (£4500).

Still, at £54,500 the new Tesla Model S 70D is an appealing buy, and it’s now on sale in the UK with the option of three new colours – Ocean Blue (the one in the photo of the 70D above), Obsidian Black and Warm Silver.