Overview:
The 2023 Tesla Model X boasts the expected high performance and prestige associated with the brand name, but its features may not be as impressive as they once were. In today's luxury electric crossover market, there are several better options available. The Model X comes in two variations, starting with the base SUV equipped with a dual-motor that generates 670 horsepower and provides a driving range of 348 miles per the EPA. For those seeking a more performance-oriented option, the Plaid model is available at a higher cost, but produces an incredible 1020 horsepower and can travel up to 333 miles before requiring a recharge. The Model X's acceleration is impressive, and it offers a generous driving range, but we question whether the vehicle's cabin provides the luxury ambiance that one would expect at such a high price point. Other new entrants into the electric SUV market, such as the BMW iX and the Rivian R1S, are both more affordable and offer an even fancier design, while still offering comparable acceleration.
Price and Variants:
For 2023, Tesla has made some minor updates to the Model X. The most significant change is the introduction of a new key card, while the previous car-shaped fob is now an optional add-on. Customers can also choose to have a regular steering wheel installed at no extra cost, with a retrofit option available for current owners for $700. Apart from these changes, the Model X remains the same as the previous year.
The Model X is available in two models, the base model and the Plaid model. The Plaid model boasts three electric motors, providing insane acceleration, but its $111,380 price tag and estimated driving range of 333 miles may not be the most cost-effective option. Instead, we recommend the base Model X, priced at $101,380, which offers up to 348 miles of estimated driving range and is still incredibly fast.
The base Model X comes with two electric motors, one at the front axle and one at the rear, providing all-wheel drive. Tesla claims a zero-to-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds, but testing has shown it can be even quicker, with a 3.3-second run. The Plaid model, with its three motors, boasts a claimed zero-to-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds, but testing at our track is still pending. Nonetheless, the X's electric motors provide impressive acceleration, making it a fun and exciting car to drive.
Power and Performance:
The standard Model X is equipped with two electric motors, located at the front and rear axles, respectively, providing an all-wheel-drive capability. Tesla claims that this configuration can achieve a zero-to-60 mph acceleration time of 3.8 seconds, however, we recorded a faster time of 3.3 seconds during our own testing. Meanwhile, the high-performance Plaid variant features three motors, generating 1020 horsepower, and is claimed to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. Unfortunately, we haven't yet had the opportunity to verify this performance at our own test track. In comparison, the Model S Plaid, which shares the same platform as the Model X, achieved an astonishing 2.1-second zero-to-60-mph time during our testing. Although the Model X's handling is impressive, its electric motors' exceptional acceleration is undoubtedly its most remarkable feature.
Range, Charging and Battery:
The Model X vehicle offers a standard battery that boasts an impressive 348-mile driving range. Opting for the faster Plaid model, however, will reduce the estimated driving range to 333 miles. Thankfully, recharging the battery is fast and convenient thanks to Tesla's extensive network of Superchargers that are available nationwide. Although charging at home via a 240V or 120V connection is slower, it's more convenient for most owners. To facilitate this, Tesla offers in-home charging equipment that can be purchased by customers.
Interior:
The Tesla Model X boasts a minimalist interior design with few buttons, in line with the brand's signature style. The driver is faced with a digital gauge display and a unique yoke-style steering controller that some find frustrating and difficult to adjust to. However, a regular steering wheel is also available at no extra cost. The car's most distinctive feature is its windshield/glass roof, which provides a panoramic view of the road and sky. Despite these impressive features, the Model X's interior falls short, particularly given its hefty price tag, with unremarkable air vents, poorly aligned panels, and seats that lack adequate adjustability.
Infotainment and Connectivity:
The central focus of the Model X's dashboard is its extensive touchscreen infotainment system, which effectively manages a diverse range of features and settings. A secondary digital display located in front of the driver acts as the gauge cluster. Despite its advanced technology, the infotainment system lacks the capability to integrate with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Additionally, the back-seat occupants are provided with a separate small display for entertainment and potentially some limited control over the car's functionalities.
Safety and Warranty:
Many car buyers prioritize technology features over luxury, and the Model X caters to this trend with its impressive safety and driver-assistance features. Perhaps the most notable feature is Autopilot, which enables hands-free driving through the use of multiple sensors, cameras, and radars that detect objects, people, and other vehicles to autonomously navigate the Model X. The SUV also boasts a Summon feature that allows users to park or retrieve the vehicle from tight spots while standing outside, making it a practical solution to the Model X's top-hinged doors.
For those interested in the Model X's safety credentials, you can check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites for detailed crash-test results. Key safety features include standard automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning, as well as an available adaptive cruise control feature with a hands-free driving mode.
In terms of warranty coverage, Tesla provides a comprehensive package that covers the Model X's powertrain and hybrid components for 8 years, regardless of mileage. However, it does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance or the lengthy bumper-to-bumper coverage provided by the I-Pace. The limited warranty for the Model X covers 4 years or 50,000 miles.
