The Tesla brand revolutionized the entire EV industry with the introduction of the Tesla Model S. And since then, Tesla has been the go-to EV brand for most people, offering fun-to-drive, efficient, high-performing vehicles.

Its lineup includes the Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X, and the Tesla Cybertruck that officially released in November 2023. These beautiful, silent, eco-friendly EVs offer a great electric range and supercar-annihilating acceleration. While they are not relatively affordable when new, the used car market has plenty to offer if you are on a budget.

UPDATE: 2023/12/14 19:21 EST BY DENNIS KARIUKI NJOKI

How we got our model selections: HotCars analyzed used Tesla models available on the used market today. Ratings were awarded in three key categories: used pricing (based on KBB's current fair market value for each model), owner satisfaction rating (Consumer Reports), and consumer feedback (based on the overall star ratings in Edmunds).

We used the average from the above categories to compute our HotCars Rating and sort these Teslas from the least to highest rated model. Additional information, such as estimated maintenance costs during the first 10 Years (CarEdge) and recalls (NHTSA), were added for reference but not factored into the ratings.

HotCars Scoring Methodology

13 2020 Tesla Model S: 6.3/10

2020 Model S Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2020 Model S in three key categories:

The 2020 Model S was a continuation of the vehicle that introduced electrification to the world. While it had no significant changes from its predecessor, it is also among the best used Teslas on the market. The 2020 Model S has a lot of standard features, including air suspension that helps offer a comfortable ride.

The dashboard features a sizable 17-inch infotainment screen with logically laid menus. Despite brimming with tech, the Model S didn't have Android Auto or Apple CarPlay integration.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 3.5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.1/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4732
• Recalls: 16

12 2020 Tesla Model X: 6.7/10

2020 Model X Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2020 Model X in three key categories:

While the 2020 Tesla Model X didn't undergo any significant changes from its predecessor, it still is an impressive electric luxury SUV. Tesla made some changes with the revised Long Range Plus model, which added a few more miles of range.

The Model X had two basic configurations, the significant difference being the electric range and performance. However, both models had Tesla's Autopilot driver assistance system, a spacious cabin with three rows of seats, and efficient, gasoline-free driving.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 3.4/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.6/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,723
• Recalls: 6

11 2021 Tesla Model S: 6.7/10

2021 Model S Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2021 Model S in three key categories:

The 2021 Tesla Model S was available in two grades, the Long Range and Plaid versions. A Performance trim was also available initially, but Tesla phased it out for a new Plaid trim. The 2021 Model S is still desirable despite being two years old in 2023. It scored a perfect owner satisfaction rating of 5/5 on Consumer Reports.

Its 405 miles of estimated electric range in the Model S Long Range was unparalleled, which was the highest of any EV on the market in 2021. It also boasts robust performance in the Plaid trim, which Tesla claimed could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2 seconds while still providing 396 miles of range.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 5/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 3.1/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4566
• Recalls: 16

10 2020 Tesla Model Y: 7.7/10

2020 Model Y Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2020 Model Y in three key categories:

With an 8.1/10 Edmunds expert rating, the 2020 Tesla Model Y is one of the best used EVs to buy. It's a small luxury SUV that joins the Model X within Tesla's SUV lineup.

It has much more in common with the Model 3, but it's roomier. The Model Y's cabin features well-padded seats, built to offer ample support. It also has a big center screen with crisp-looking graphics.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 3.5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.1/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4732
• Recalls: 16

9 2021 Tesla Model Y: 8.0/10

2021 Model Y Rating

Here’s how our team rated the 2021 Model Y in three key categories:

Before the 2021 model year, the Model Y could only seat five passengers. However, the 2021 model of the EV received a third row, offering more space for kids. It also had performance and long-range variants, both with an impressive range of over 300 miles.

Like most Teslas, the Model Y has excellent acceleration, with the Long Range variant sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. It's no wonder the 2021 Model Y earned a 5/5 owner satisfaction rating on Consumer Reports.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 3.9/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.1/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4732
• Recalls: 15

8 2019 Tesla Model X: 8.0/10

2019 Model X Ratings

Here's how our team rated the 2019 Model X in three key categories:

The 2019 Model X is still among the most versatile and fastest-accelerating all-electric SUVs, and that's probably among the reasons it earned a 4/5 owner satisfaction rating on Consumer Reports. It was also one of Edmunds' Best Electric Cars for 2019. Other highlights include the attention-grabbing swing-up doors, clean-looking cabin, driver-assist features, a 4,890-pound towing capacity, and three rows of seating.

Initially, Tesla offered the 2019 Model X in two performance trims: the base Model X and the range-topping Model X Performance. Mid-year changes included renaming the base model to Standard Range, which saw its range drop from 270 miles to 250 miles. The Extended Range model was also renamed to Long Range, increasing its range to 325 miles. With the optional Ludicrous mode, Tesla claimed the wicked-fast Model X Performance could rip to 60 mph in a mind-bending 2.7 seconds.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.0/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.6/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,723
• Recalls: 6

7 2021 Tesla Model 3: 8.7/10

2021 Model 3 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2021 Model 3 in three key categories:

The Model 3 has been one of the perfect go-to EV for more range. For the 2021 model year, the base model got more range, from 250 miles to 263 miles of range. All models within the lineup received similar changes. Additional changes to the Model 3 lineup include a standard wireless phone charging pad, metal steering wheel control dials, and black exterior trim.

While the Model 3 had tough competition from the Polestar 2, Ford Mustang Mach E, and Kia Niro EV, it remains an excellent pick for an EV. The Model 3 is also one of the best used Tesla vehicles on the market, thanks to an 8.4/10 Edmunds expert rating.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.2/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $3587
• Recalls: 14

6 2016 Tesla Model S: 8.7/10

2016 Model S Ratings

Here's how our team rated the 2016 Model S in three key categories:

For 2016, Tesla gave the Model S a refreshed front-end styling akin to that on the Model X, adaptive headlights, Autopilot semi-autonomous technology, and enhanced cabin air filtration system. The 70 and 70D variants were also phased out for the 60 and 60D grades.

The entry-level Model S 60 with 315 hp has a range of 210 miles, while the dual motor S 60 D with 328 hp has a range of 218 miles. The high-performance S 90D is the range champion thanks to its estimated range of 294 miles. The P90D is the most powerful in the lineup, with 463 hp on tap or 532 hp with the optional Ludicrous mode. This mode helps the 2016 Model S P90D accelerate from 0-60 mph in a scant 2.8 seconds.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.4/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4,566
• Recalls: 7

5 2017 Tesla Model S: 8.7/10

2017 Model S Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2017 Model S in three key categories:

For the 2017 model year, Tesla introduced the P100D Tesla Model S. It was the quickest Model S yet and among the fastest vehicles in the world. Like its predecessors, the 2017 Model S is a true electric luxury sedan with cutting-edge tech, tremendous acceleration, and 300-plus miles of range.

The top trim P100D remains one of the best grand touring vehicles thanks to its additional range and Tesla's supercharger network. Like most cars on this list, the 2017 Model S is a great used Tesla option, thanks to a 4/5 overall reliability and overall owner satisfaction Consumer Reports rating.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4566
• Recalls: 6

4 2014 Tesla Model S: 9.0/10

2014 Model S Ratings

Here's how our team rated the 2014 Model S in three key categories:

While the 2014 Model S is nearly a decade old, it still possesses the sleek, luxurious, and powerful characteristics of its newer counterparts. It served as a benchmark for other vehicles with its thoroughly modern interior design, unmatched electric range, and impressive performance. It's no wonder it earned a 4/5 owner satisfaction rating on Consumer Reports.

Pricing for a used example today starts around $21,000 for the base model. This gets you an EPA-estimated range of 208 miles. The S P85 increases the range to 265 miles. The range-topping P85D trim is the quickest, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds and returns an electric range of 242 miles.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5

• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4,566
• Recalls: 6

3 2018 Tesla Model 3: 9.0/10

2018 Model S Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2018 Model S in three key categories:

The 2018 Tesla Model S is among the highest-rated Teslas, with an 8.6/10 Edmunds expert rating. For the 2018 model year, Tesla only offered three trim options: the 75D, 100D, and P100D. All of them had all-wheel drive, cutting-edge technology, and tremendous acceleration.

The introduction of the 75D base model offered a better range of 259 miles than the 70D. However, opting for the 100D provided the best range of 335 miles on a full charge. For more performance, Tesla offered the P100D with a 0 to 60 mph time of 2.5 seconds.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 5/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.8/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $3587
• Recalls: 13

2 2019 Tesla Model 3: 9.3/10

2019 Model 3 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2019 Model 3 in three key categories:

When Tesla introduced the Model 3 in 2016, it made headlines with its quick acceleration, extended range, and reasonable price. However, it was through the 2019 model that Tesla could produce a good low-cost Model 3.

While the Model 3 measures almost the same length as a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, it uses its dimensions to offer a roomier cabin. It also has a spacious trunk, both at the front and rear. Like the 2021 model, the 2019 Model 3 also had an 8.4/10 Edmunds expert rating.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.6/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $3587
• Recalls: 16

1 2015 Tesla Model S: 10/10

2015 Model S Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2015 Model S in three key categories:

Edmunds gave the 2015 Model S an "A" rating, proving that only a few cars could compete directly with it. Also, it was among the quickest full-size luxury sedans back then, with the P85D needing 3.5 seconds from 0-60 mph, while the P90D took 2.8 seconds in the same test when equipped with the "Ludicrous Speed" upgrade.

According to Consumer Reports, the 2015 Model S is also one of the most reliable Teslas, with a reliability score of 3/5 and an owner satisfaction rating of 4/5. While it had a starting price of about $70,000 when new, you can get pre-owned models today for as low as $25,000.

Pricing

Reliability & Maintenance

• Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Rating: 5/5

• Edmunds Consumer Feedback Rating: 4.6/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $4566
• Recalls: 6

Sources: Kelley Blue Book, Consumer Reports, NHTSA, CarEdge, Edmunds