Photo credit: SongLeeYan
Tesla’s Model S is gearing up for a 2026 refresh that’s been turning heads on public roads. Spotted recently in a striking new blue hue, this facelifted sedan blends subtle refinements with bold updates.
Gone is the smoother, almost minimalist fascia of the current model; in its place, a sharper, more sculpted bumper with a subtle splitter adds a sporty edge. This isn’t just for show, a front bumper camera nestled into the design, a feature already seen on Tesla’s Cybertruck and refreshed Model Y. This camera likely enhances parking precision and could play a role in Tesla’s push for unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD), though its exact capabilities remain under wraps.
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Tesla’s new blue paint was spotted in recent test mules. Unlike the more common silver or black, this blue catches light in a way more so than the previous versions. It’s a statement, one that aligns with Tesla’s history of offering bold hues to match its boundary-pushing ethos. Sources suggest this color could be exclusive to certain markets or trims, perhaps even the high-octane Plaid variant, which promises to keep its 1,020-horsepower tri-motor setup.
Rolling on new 19-inch wheels with aero covers, the 2026 Model S leans into efficiency without sacrificing style. These wheels, spotted alongside 21-inch options on test vehicles, are designed to reduce drag, a critical factor for a car that boasts over 400 miles of range in its current form. The larger 21-inch rims, seen on a Plaid prototype, scream performance with their angular, turbine-like design.
Underneath the sleek exterior, the 2026 Model S is unlikely to overhaul its powertrain but may see targeted upgrades. The current All-Wheel Drive trim offers a 410-mile range and a 3.1-second 0-60 mph sprint, while the Plaid variant delivers a blistering 1.99-second dash with a 348-mile range. Speculation points to potential efficiency gains through software tweaks or a lighter chassis, though no major battery upgrades are confirmed. The 48V low-voltage architecture, seen in newer Tesla models, could make an appearance, streamlining electronics and cutting weight. While some fans dream of a 1,200-hp Plaid or a 4680 battery pack, these seem more like wishful thinking than reality for now.
Details remain scarce, but Tesla’s pattern suggests a reveal later in 2025, with deliveries starting in early 2026. Pricing is a wildcard—expect a slight bump over the current $74,990 base price, with the Plaid likely north of $89,990. As more prototypes surface, we’ll get a clearer sense of the final design and features.
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