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Marketed since 2015, the Tesla Model X is the third model of the American car manufacturer Tesla. Renewed in January 2021, this one benefits from a new version Plaid with more than 1,020 horsepower. Discover a high-end family SUV that is 100% electric.
Tesla Model X: its history
The Model X Tesla was first introduced to the public at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, and unveiled by Tesla as being “faster than a Porsche 911 and roomier than an Audi Q7.”
The model is based on the same platform, and designed in the same factory in Fremont, California as the Model S sedan. Up to seven passengers and their luggage can fit in this 100% electric SUV.
After a two-year delay, the final version of the Model X and the first deliveries took place in September 2015 in the United States, and in 2016 in some European countries.
Given the 20,000 reservations recorded during pre-orders, some buyers waited more than eight months for delivery times. The Tesla Model X. remains the world’s most powerful production electric SUV with the longest range.
Exterior design
The most talked about feature of the Tesla Model X is the Falcon Wing rear doors. These are hinged doors that open vertically with the help of an electric motor, and that deploy according to the space available. This makes access to the rear seats easier than with conventional doors.
The opening requires 30 cm of lateral space, but don’t panic, Tesla has foreseen everything! Ultrasonic sensors detect possible obstacles and limit the opening. In case the doors don’t respond, there is a manual opening behind the speaker grill.
The exterior appearance has changed slightly, with a new front end. Designed for speed and range, the overall design gives the Model X the lowest drag coefficient of any SUV (0.24 Cd).
For an advanced look, the new 20- or 22-inch aerodynamic wheels are wrapped in new tires. The result is better handling, comfort and performance.
An entirely new interior
On board the Tesla X Model, the American brand keeps its amazing panoramic windshield. This one remains the largest in production according to Tesla.
The 17-inch vertical touch screen becomes horizontal and offers a resolution of 2,200 x 1,300 pixels. The colors are authentic and the display of games and movies is exceptionally responsive. This last one is accompanied by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, which is absent on the Model 3 and Model Y.
A third 8-inch screen is available for rear passengers. In addition to the climate control settings, this one offers entertainment from Netflix, Disney+ or Youtube. A wireless controller can be connected for video games.
The amazing Yoke steering wheel found on the Model S Plaid makes its standard appearance. The U-shaped steering wheel brings a futuristic look to Tesla’s large electric SUV. This Model X is the best SUV to drive and the best SUV to be driven. No shifting, no shifting, the ultimate focus on driving!
Trunk dimensions and volume
The Model X offers optimal practicality. With a length of 5.03 meters, a width of 2 meters, and a height of 1.68 meters, this 100% electric SUV can accommodate up to seven people, on three rows of seats.
When ordered, the seats can be configured differently. Three seats in the rear, the classic five-seater, or a six-seater version with two seats in the rear and two more in the trunk. Finally, the third seven-seat version allows three seats in the second row and two seats in the third row.
With the battery pack under the floor, the Tesla X Model offers plenty of interior space and increases the trunk volume from 544 liters to 2,492 liters when the rear seats are folded down. With a towing capacity of up to 2,300 kg, the SUV has enough room to carry the luggage and other bulky items of a large family.
Motorization and performance
The Tesla Model X’s engine is equivalent to that of the Model S sedan. Available only in four-wheel drive, the range is composed of two different large versions:
| Tesla Model X: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive is available in 2023. This version also has one engine per axle. The power is 670 hp, has a 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, and a top speed of 250 km/h. |
| Tesla Model X Plaid: With a power of 1,020 hp, the Tri-Motor all-wheel drive makes it reach 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds. The top speed is 262 km/h. |
If you’re looking for a high-end SUV alternative, the Kia e-Niro also has two engines, and easily rivals the long-range vehicles offered by Tesla.
| Tesla Model X | Tesla Model X Plaid | |
| Transmission | Complete | Complete |
| Engine | Dual Motor | Tri-Motor |
| 0 to 100 km/h | 3.9 seconds | 2,6 seconds |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h | 262 km/h |
Battery and autonomy
Like the engine, the Model X shares the same battery system as the one available on the Tesla Model S. With a capacity of 100 kWh or 400 V, the lithium-ion battery allows a range of 560 km for the Model X and 528 km of autonomy in WLTP cycle for the version of Tesla Model X Plaid. The Mercedes EQC is the main competitor with a similar range and performance.
Charging the Model X SUV
Charge your vehicle anytime with the Wall Connector, the fastest way to charge your vehicle at home. The estimated range recovered per hour of charging is 5 kilometers per kW with a single-phase charger limited to 11 kW.
Charging is also done at regular charging stations, and at ultra-fast charging stations called Superchargers. Deployed by Tesla in North America, Europe and Asia, these stations are specific to Tesla itself and give you the freedom to travel.
The Model X’s maximum recharge rate is 250 kW, compatible with third-generation V3 Superchargers. That’s enough time to recover up to 275 km of range in 15 minutes, giving you time to take a break and have a coffee at a rest stop. The maximum power allowed on other Superchargers is 145 kW.
Autopilot: the future of driving
What is Autopilot? It is a safety system that assists you in the most difficult moments of driving. It allows your vehicle to stay on course, accelerate and brake in its lane, under your active supervision, if another vehicle or pedestrian is in the way.
The latest improvements are available instantly with remote software updates. Two other paid options are offered with more complete functionalities:
Enhanced Autopilot – €3,800
| Autopilot navigation: guidance in the insertion lanes to the highway exit |
| Auto Lane Change: automated lane changes on the highway |
| Auto Parking: One-touch slot and battle parking |
| Auto Exit: automatically park and retrieve your vehicle |
| Smart Auto Exit: maneuver your vehicle out of parking spaces and around corners |
Fully autonomous driving capability – €7,500
| All the features of the basic Autopilot and the enhanced Autopilot |
| Recognition and response to traffic lights and stop signs |
To come
| Automated driving in the city |
Finishes: which Tesla Model X to choose?
The Tesla Model X is available in two trim levels. It’s up to you to choose the version with the equipment you want.
Tesla Model X Dual Motor Finish
Main equipment
| Collision detection |
| Touch screen audio system |
| Power tailgate |
| Automatic air conditioning |
| GPS |
| Adaptive cruise control |
| Leather and heated steering wheel |
| Rear and front parking assistance |
| Power front seats |
| Remote trunk release |
| 17-inch touch screen |
| Front center armrest |
| Power rear doors |
| Day/night mirror |
| Voice recognition |
| 22 speakers |
| LED front/rear directional lights |
Tesla Model X Plaid Finish
Additional equipment
| Power, ventilated and heated front seats |
When is the Tesla Model X wagon coming out?
Tesla finally confirms the arrival of the Model X Plaid in Europe. Deliveries of the cars already ordered by customers are scheduled between December 2022 and February 2023. According to Tesla, the Model X with Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive will be available for order in 2023.
What are the prices of the Tesla Model X in 2022?
The French configurator does not yet allow the Model X Dual Motor to be customized, so the price is not yet displayed. The Plaid version is available from €141,990, excluding options. At this price, the Model X Tesla is not eligible for the ecological bonus.
| Tesla Model X | Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive | Available in 2023 |
| Tesla Model X Plaid | Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive | 141 990 € |
Our opinion
The Tesla Model X. is a modern, connected, and above all, environmentally friendly car. It offers incredible performance, especially in its Plaid version, available since 2021. With the Supercharger network, it’s entirely possible to plan a big weekend getaway. So, if you are a fan of new technologies, this electric car is made for you.
This post is also available in Site en allemand, Site en espagnol and Site en italien.
