If you've been thinking about buying a fuel-efficient vehicle or upgrading your existing vehicle to another model with a high resale value, you might consider a Tesla.
But how much exactly is a Tesla? Here's what you need to know about Tesla vehicle pricing, loan offers, financing programs, leasing options, and discounts available when buying one of the most luxurious fuel-efficient cars.
PRICING FOR A TESLA STARTS AT $35,000
According to Tesla Motors, Tesla prices begin in the mid-$30,000 range: The starting price of the Tesla Model 3 is $35,000. Production is expected to begin mid-2017 and delivery will start in mid-2018 or later. You can reserve a Tesla Model 3 for $1,000.
The Tesla Model S is designed to be one of the most powerful sedans on the market and boasts an all-electric powertrain with Autopilot capabilities. A custom order of this model costs an estimated $59,500 after savings and carries a total cash price of $71,300.
The Tesla Model X has a futuristic design with an oversized windshield and Falcon wings, and is also an electric all-wheel drive vehicle. A custom order of this model costs an estimated $77,100 after estimated savings and carries a total cash price of $88,800.
Note that these are starting prices, so the final price you pay will depend on any upgrades and customizations for your vehicle. New Tesla Model S vehicles range in price from $84,200 to $156,800, and new Tesla Model X vehicles range from $103,200 to $106,250 in price. Additionally, you might need to pay more for a vehicle warranty and other options that aren't included in the listing price of your chosen vehicle.
YOU CAN GET TAX CREDITS FOR OWNING A TESLA
If you live in the states of California, Colorado, Delaware, Louisiana, Massachusetts or Pennsylvania, you might qualify for a federal tax credit when you buy a Tesla Model S or Tesla Model X. The Model S and Model X both qualify for a $7,500 tax credit and might also qualify for other state-sponsored tax incentives and rebates. You can find out through the Tesla Motors website what other incentives or rebates you're eligible to receive.
TESLA FINANCING IS AVAILABLE
One way to buy a Tesla without paying the full cash price upfront is to get a loan with a Tesla financing program. You might be eligible for a loan offer based on a program with Alliant Credit Union available in all 50 states. The estimated monthly loan payment for a Tesla Model S is $995 per month with a $5,000 down payment and 72-month loan with a 1.99 percent interest rate. The actual monthly payment will depend on the interest rate you qualify for and your down payment at signing. Tesla Motors calculates the monthly payment at $903 per month after estimated savings.
The estimated monthly payment for a loan to buy a Tesla Model X is $1,253 per month with a $5,000 down payment and 72-month loan with a 1.99 percent interest rate. This estimation includes the $7,500 tax credit. Your monthly payment after estimated savings is $1,163 per month, according to Tesla Motors.
YOU CAN OPT TO LEASE A TESLA
If you don't qualify for financing, leasing might be an option. You can customize your lease with the Tesla Leasing program to better afford the down payment and monthly payments.
Your lease payment will vary depending on the number of miles you plan on driving per year. For example, the estimated lease payment for the Tesla Model X is $1,131 per month if you drive 10,000 miles for the year, and $1,155 per month if you drive 12,000 miles per year. This estimation is for a 36-month lease, and you would need to make a down payment of $6,850 at signing. Information about Tesla Model 3 leasing has not been released.
YOU COULD SAVE $5,500 IN GAS EXPENSES
According to Tesla Motors, you would save approximately $5,500 in gas over five years when driving the Tesla Model S rather than a gasoline-powered vehicle. You would save approximately $5,400 in gas over five years when driving the Tesla Model X. Compare those numbers with a number of family cars with great mileage and you might find that a Tesla fits in with your financial strategy.
YOU MIGHT BE ELIGIBLE FOR TESLA DISCOUNTS
You might qualify for a discount on a Tesla Model X or Tesla Model S through the Tesla Referral Program. As of March 2017, you can design your Model S or Model X online at Tesla.com and use a referral code to receive a $1,000 credit towards your purchase.
But if you're not specifically looking for a Tesla, you can check out other options available for online car shoppers.
