Cadillac
ELR
Tesla
Model S
Cadillac ELR vs Tesla Model S: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Tesla Model S comes out ahead of the Cadillac ELR on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
ELR
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided, with a clear distinction between owners who have experienced significant reliability problems and those who have not. Positive feedback centers on the vehicle's distinctive and attractive coupe design, which receives frequent compliments, its comfortable and spacious front seating with easy entry/exit due to the two-door layout, and the proven Voltec plug-in hybrid powertrain offering efficient all-electric daily driving. Owners who have had trouble-free experiences praise its reliability, low operating costs (especially with access to free public charging), and the exclusivity of owning a rare vehicle.
Best version to buy
The 2016 model year is consistently noted as the superior version. Improvements over earlier years include better performance, a newer infotainment system with Apple CarPlay (and updatable to Android Auto), and the availability of a Sport package with upgraded brakes.
Known issues
- ⚠Numerous electrical/electronic component failures: includes dead touchscreen/digitizer, failed tail lights (multiple instances), faulty windshield wiper motor, failed windshield washer pump, seat motor/haptic feedback failures, and turn si…
- ⚠High-voltage battery degradation/failure: slow degradation reducing range; complete cell failure requiring major repair or replacement, particularly in older/higher-mileage examples. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Parts scarcity/discontinuation: many body panels, lighting units, and model-specific components (e.g., wiring harnesses) are discontinued by GM and extremely difficult to find from salvage, making collision repair and some maintenance a ma…
Model S
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and varies significantly by vehicle generation. Long-term owners of older models (specifically pre-2021, with mentions of a 2015 model) report severe dissatisfaction with long-term reliability and ownership costs, describing the vehicle as poorly designed for longevity with frequent, expensive failures. In contrast, discussions of newer models (post-2021) are more focused on competitive positioning, with feedback indicating they are perceived as technologically capable but lagging in interior luxury, build quality, and overall refinement compared to newer premium electric vehicles.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific model year or trim (e.g., Long Range vs. Plaid) as the "best" among community discussions.
Known issues
- ⚠Poor long-term reliability (older models): Multiple expensive failures per year out of warranty, including door handles, trunk latches, 12V battery systems, infotainment screens, and suspension components (control arms).
- ⚠Full Self-Driving (FSD) / Autopilot system flaws: Phantom braking, unreliable object detection due to cameras-only sensor suite, hard braking for shadows, erratic lane changes, and general inability to be trusted without constant supervisi…
- ⚠Subpar build quality and interior materials: Described as "low build quality," lacking the refinement, comfort, and quietness expected in the luxury segment.
The verdict
The Tesla Model S is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Cadillac ELR, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Cadillac ELR is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Cadillac ELR or the Tesla Model S?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Cadillac ELR and the Tesla Model S. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Cadillac ELR or the Tesla Model S?
The Tesla Model S seats more passengers than the Cadillac ELR on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Cadillac ELR is classed as a Coupe, the Tesla Model S as a Liftback.
Which has better fuel economy, the Cadillac ELR or the Tesla Model S?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Cadillac ELR or the Tesla Model S?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.