2026 Tesla Roadster Review

The original Tesla Roadster was the electric automaker’s breakthrough, even if it’s somewhat forgotten by most Model S and Model X owners today. Initially scheduled to return in 2021, the second-generation Roadster has encountered several delays but is now nearing its production debut. This new model improves on its predecessor by adding two small rear seats, extending driving range substantially, and delivering significantly more performance. When Tesla unveiled the Roadster concept in 2017, CEO Elon Musk touted a blistering 1.9-second 0–60 mph sprint and a top speed of 250 mph—numbers that set high expectations for the car’s arrival. His more recent claim of under one second to 60 mph may be ambitious, but we’re eager to see if Tesla can back it up. The 2026 Tesla Roadster is expected to debut by the end of 2024, with sales beginning sometime in 2025.

When Is The 2026 Tesla Roadster Coming Out?

Tesla has confirmed that the 2026 Roadster is scheduled to hit showrooms late in the year, following several years of anticipation and delays. Reservations are currently open, with early deliveries expected to go to pre-order customers.

What’s New for 2026 Tesla Roadster?

The 2026 Tesla Roadster marks a bold return of the iconic nameplate, reviving the spirit of Tesla’s very first production model from 2008. As the newest addition to Tesla’s lineup, this all-electric sports car promises to push the boundaries of performance, range, and design, setting a new standard for electric supercars when it finally enters production.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2026 Tesla Roadster is expected to start at around $200,000, with prices potentially rising to $250,000 depending on trim levels and options.

Tesla has announced a base Roadster priced at $200,000 and a limited-edition Founders Series version available for $50,000 more. While the Founders Series is limited to just 1,000 units, details on what sets it apart from the standard model remain scarce. For collectors, the exclusivity might justify the premium, but for most buyers, the base model will likely offer the best value. We’ll update this overview as Tesla releases more information about the Roadster’s features and available options.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

Details about the 2026 Tesla Roadster electric powertrain remain scarce, but all-wheel drive is expected to come standard. Tesla’s current mainstream EVs use a dual-motor setup—one motor powering the front wheels and another for the rear—delivering strong traction and performance. For the Roadster, however, there’s speculation Tesla might push the envelope even further by developing a more advanced system featuring up to four electric motors, one at each wheel, for even greater control and blistering performance. Whatever the final setup, the Roadster promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience that lives up to Tesla’s high-performance legacy.

0–60-MPH Times

When Tesla revealed the new Roadster as a concept back in November 2017, Elon Musk set the bar with jaw-dropping performance claims: a 0–60 mph sprint in just 1.9 seconds, a top speed exceeding 250 mph, and a quarter-mile run in a blistering 8.8 seconds. More recently, Tesla has pushed the envelope even further, suggesting the Roadster could achieve 60 mph in under one second—a figure that sounds almost too good to be true. While these numbers remain to be independently verified, if accurate, the Roadster would redefine what an electric sports car is capable of.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

Tesla plans to equip the Roadster with a massive 200-kWh battery pack, which is claimed to deliver an impressive driving range of up to 620 miles on a single charge. However, that figure is likely based on ideal driving conditions and conservative use. Push the car hard on a racetrack or engage in spirited driving, and you can expect the real-world range to drop significantly. As with most high-performance EVs, balancing range and exhilaration will be key for drivers. Details on charging speeds and battery longevity are still forthcoming, but Tesla’s track record suggests fast charging and solid battery life will be part of the package.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA has yet to release official fuel economy ratings for the 2026 Tesla Roadster, but those figures are expected to be available closer to its launch date. Once we get our hands on a test model, we plan to evaluate its efficiency using our standard 75-mph highway MPGe test and share the results. Given Tesla’s history, the Roadster should offer impressive electric efficiency, though real-world numbers will naturally vary based on driving style and conditions.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

As of now, the Roadster remains a concept, and production models often undergo significant changes before hitting the road. The concept showcased a removable glass roof panel that can be conveniently stored in the trunk, offering an open-air driving experience. Inside, the Roadster features four seats, though the rear seats appear best suited for children or short trips due to the sharply sloped roofline. Beyond these details, expect Tesla’s signature minimalist interior design to carry over, focusing on clean lines, intuitive controls, and premium materials that balance comfort with sporty flair.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Roadster’s concept features a striking large touchscreen that stretches from the top of the dashboard down to the center console, with a handy storage cubby beneath it. Like other Teslas, it likely won’t support Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or Amazon Alexa integration, as Tesla has consistently favored its own software ecosystem. If the Model 3’s system is any indication, expect the absence of traditional AM radio or SiriusXM services. Instead, Tesla is expected to offer onboard Wi-Fi, seamless Spotify integration, and a suite of streaming apps such as Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube—perfect for entertainment while parked or charging.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

As the Roadster is still in concept form, it has yet to undergo crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, Tesla is expected to equip the Roadster with its latest suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including the well-known Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system. Key safety features likely to be standard or available include:

• Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection

• Lane-departure warning combined with lane-keeping assist

• Adaptive cruise control featuring a semi-autonomous driving mode

These technologies aim to enhance driver safety and convenience, aligning with Tesla’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The 2026 Tesla Roadster is expected to come with the same standard warranty package as Tesla’s other models. This includes an eight-year warranty on the electric motors and battery pack, providing long-term peace of mind for owners. However, unlike some rivals such as the Audi R8 or Jaguar F-Type, Tesla does not currently offer complimentary scheduled maintenance with its vehicles. The anticipated coverage details are:

• Limited warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty: Eight years with no mileage limit

• Complimentary scheduled maintenance: Not included

This warranty structure emphasizes Tesla’s confidence in the durability of its electric powertrain components.

Final Verdict

The 2026 Tesla Roadster is a stunning fusion of extreme performance, impressive range, and innovative technology. It sets a new benchmark for electric sports cars and will appeal to drivers who crave speed without compromising on sustainability.