Consumer Reports: Tesla Model S is the one of the best cars ever [video]

Consumer Reports has rated the all-electric Tesla Model S sedan a 99 out of 100, the first time since 2007 the magazine has rated a car that highly. In addition to being one the best vehicles ever tested, Consumer Reports argues that the Model S comes close to being the best vehicle of all time.

So what makes the Tesla Model S so special? According to Consumer Reports, the all-electric vehicle succeeds because of the fact that it’s, well, all-electric. Due to the location of its battery – which is under the floor – the Model S possesses a superior sense of gravity, excellent handling, a comfortable ride, and a roomy interior.

The absence of a traditional gasoline engine also allows the Model S to have a spacious front trunk. Not to mention, the large luxury hatchback contains a sizable rear cargo, seating for seven, and an optional third-row jump seat.

Aside from being spacious, the Model S’ interior is also equipped with enough gadgets to please even the most tech savvy consumer. At the center of the vehicle’s dashboard is a huge 17-inch touch screen that powers the car’s sunroof, regenerative brake settings, suspension ride height adjustments, and even its Google Maps integration.

Despite all the positives, there is just one thing keeping the Tesla Model S from getting a perfect score: the fact that its does need to stop and recharge during long-distance drives. That being said, the Model S is equipped with an 85 kWh battery, the largest available. The 84-mpg electric vehicle can go between 180 and 225 miles on a charge, which is double any other electric vehicle. The Model S can be charged in as little as five hours.

Although Consumer Reports holds the California-based Tesla in high esteem, the consumer magazine isn’t usually so kind to American-made cars. In fact, American cars dominated Consumer Reports’ list of the 10 Lease Reliable Cars. The list included five Ford models, the Lincoln MKT, and the Ram 2500. Click here to read Torque News’ coverage of Consumer Reports’ list of the 10 Least Reliable Cars.

In addition to being named the top vehicle available today by Consumer Reports, the Tesla Model S was also named the 2013 World Green Car of the Year, Automobile Magazine’s 2013 Car of the Year, Motor Trend 2013 Car of the Year, Yahoo! Autos 2013 Car of the Year, CNET Tech Car of the Year for 2012, and AutoGuide.com Reader’s Choice Car of the Year.