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Car and Driver
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Tesla Model X Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview As the largest SUV in the current Tesla lineup, the Model X's mission is clear: deliver the speed, range, and left-of-center design and tech choices that define the brand in a three-row SUV. That means a choice of two AWD powertrains, a futuristic shape with genuine gull-wing doors, and a heavy reliance on the touchscreen for most operational functions instead of traditional knobs and buttons. It's also incredibly quick, with our test drivers knocking off the 60-mph sprint in 3.3 seconds—in an older, less powerful version, no less. Less impressive is the interior fit and finish, which feels a little out of place in a vehicle that starts at over $90k. Groundbreaking when it arrived a decade ago, the Model X is still impressive, but is beginning to show its age. What's New for 2026? Tesla says the 2026 Model X benefits from updated suspension bushings that provide improved ride quality. Tesla claims increased space for the third row and cites an uptick in the amount of sound-damping materials and the inclusion of active noise canceling as efforts to create a quieter cabin environment. A new exterior color dubbed Frost Blue joins the palette, and new dynamic ambient interior lighting activates on entry for a bit more welcoming sizzle. New wheel designs are said to be more aerodynamically efficient, and both the new adaptive headlights and a new camera installed in the front bumper aim to improve forward visibility. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Tesla Model X starts at $91,630 and goes up to $106,630 depending on the trim and options. All-Wheel Drive $91,630 Plaid $106,630 The Plaid model with its three electric motors is sure to deliver insane acceleration, but that added performance is mighty expensive. And its 335-mile estimated driving range isn't as good as the less expensive All-Wheel Drive model's estimate, so we'd save the cash. The Model X All-Wheel Drive offers up to 352 miles of estimated driving range and is still mighty quick. EV Motor, Power, and Performance The base Model X comes standard with two electric motors—one at the front axle and one at the rear—which enable all-wheel drive with a claimed total output of 670 horsepower. The 1020-hp Plaid high-performance model has a motor up front and two at the rear. The X's handling is respectable, but it's still a big and heavy SUV with the fun party trick of blistering acceleration generated by its electric motors. 0–60-MPH Times The X's base setup is plenty swift: Tesla claims a 60-mph time of 3.8 seconds, but even an older, less powerful model easily beat that in our testing with a 3.3-second run. The tri-motor Plaid variant boasts a claimed 60-mph time of 2.5 seconds, but we haven't verified its acceleration times at our test track yet. When we tested the Model S Plaid sedan—which is based on the same basic underpinnings as the Model X—it managed a viscera-compressing 2.1-second 60-mph time. View Photos Tesla Towing and Payload Capacity While the Model X wouldn't be in our top ten list of ideal towing vehicles, it is rated for up to 5000 pounds. Range, Charging, and Battery Life The All-Wheel Drive model comes with an EPA-estimated driving range of 352 miles, a 23-mile increase over 2025. The faster Plaid model drops the estimated driving range to 335 miles, a 21-mile increase over the previous model. As to recharging, it's quick via one of Tesla's Superchargers, which are available across the country. Charging at home via a 240-volt or 120-volt connection will be slower, but probably more convenient for owners, so Tesla offers in-home charging equipment for purchase. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe The EPA hasn't released MPGe estimates for the 2026 Model X yet, but the 2025 Model X All-Wheel Drive returned 104 MPGe city and 96 MPGe highway. Even the Plaid model, which sacrifices some efficiency for its massive increase in power, outperformed key rivals in this metric. MPGe stands for miles per gallon of gas equivalent, an EPA metric that estimates PHEV and EV vehicle fuel efficiency. For more information about the Model X's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Love it or hate it, a stark and nearly buttonless interior design is classic Tesla. The driver faces a digital gauge display and a unique rectangular yoke-style steering controller instead of a conventional circular steering wheel; the yoke is often frustrating to use and difficult, if not impossible, to get used to. At least a regular steering wheel is available as a no-cost option. Also unique is the Model X's combination windshield and glass roof that runs seamlessly from the base of the hood up and over the front-seat passengers for a nearly uninterrupted view of what's ahead and what's above. Despite these whiz-bang features, the Model X's cabin leaves us wanting, especially considering its price approaches the six-figure barrier for the Plaid. The cabin has a nondescript look, the seats are relatively flat, and we've noticed poorly aligned panels and other build-quality issues. View Photos Tesla Infotainment and Connectivity A huge touchscreen infotainment system dominates the dashboard and controls nearly all of the Model X's various features and settings. A secondary digital readout directly in front of the driver serves as the gauge cluster. Tesla's infotainment system is certainly high-tech, but you won't find Apple CarPlay or Android Auto capability in it. Rear-seat riders are treated to their own small display, which provides entertainment and some control over the car's features. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The Model X comes with Tesla's Autopilot feature and can be optioned with Full Self-Driving. Tesla's driver-assist modes employ several cameras to detect objects, people, and other vehicles, and uses them to help steer, accelerate, and brake the Model X. But don't be fooled by their names: these systems do not provide fully autonomous operation; the driver must remain in charge at all times. The Model X also offers a Summon feature that allows the user to park or retrieve the SUV from tight spots while standing outside. For more information about the Model X's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard automated emergency braking Standard lane-departure warning Standard adaptive cruise control[DG1] Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Tesla offers a comprehensive warranty package to protect the Model X's powertrain and battery components but lacks the lengthy bumper-to-bumper coverage and complimentary scheduled maintenance packages of some competitors[DG2] . Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers eight years and unlimited miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications VEHICLE TYPE: front- and rear-motor, 4-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door hatchback PRICE AS TESTED: $133,700 (base price: $116,700) MOTOR TYPE: 2 asynchronous AC POWER: F: 259 hp R: 503 hp Combined: 532 hp Torque: F: 244 lb-ft R: 469 lb-ft Combined: 713 lb-ft TRANSMISSION: 1-speed direct-drive DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase: 116.7 in Length: 198.3 in Width: 81.5 in Height: 66.3 in SAE volume: F: 60 cu ft M: 52 cu ft R: 28 cu ft Cargo volume (third row up/folded): 13/68 cu ft Front trunk: 7 cu ft Curb weight: 5594 lb C/D TEST RESULTS: Zero to 60 mph: 3.3 sec Zero to 100 mph: 8.3 sec Zero to 120 mph: 13.0 sec Rolling start, 5-60 mph: 3.5 sec Top gear, 30-50 mph: 1.3 sec Top gear, 50-70 mph: 2.1 sec Standing ¼-mile: 11.8 sec @ 116 mph Top speed (governor limited): 130 mph Braking, 70-0 mph: 172 ft Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.86 g* FUEL ECONOMY: EPA city/highway driving: 89/90 MPGe EPA range: 250 mi C/D observed: 77 MPGe** *Stability-control inhibited. **Based on vehicle's trip counter. TEST NOTES: Launch control requires at least a 90-percent charge, the Max Battery Power setting, and Ludicrous Speed mode switched on. Hold brake with left foot, floor accelerator with right foot, and release. Floor the accelerator again, release the brake, and you're gone. More Features and Specs
Motor 1
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Tesla Finally Updated the Model S and Model X. But Not Much Has Changed
Tesla updated the Model S and Model X today, but any significant changes are hard to spot. Many of the upgrades lie hidden beneath the familiar-looking exteriors, with Tesla making several minor tweaks to the cars that fail to enhance their appeal in the increasingly competitive luxury EV segment. Tesla claims the new S and X are 'even quieter inside,' with less wind and road noise paired with more effective noise cancellation. The EVs will also have a smoother ride thanks to new bushings and a new suspension design, although Tesla failed to provide specifics. Photo by: Tesla Photo by: Tesla There's a new Fost Blue exterior color for the pair and a new front fascia camera for improved visibility. Inside, Tesla adds dynamic ambient lighting while increasing third-row passenger and cargo space in the Model X. Oh, and the yoke is still available as an $1,000 option on the Plaid variants. The Model S Plaid has fresh exterior styling that Tesla says is optimized for high-speed stability, but the updated car has a lower top speed than its predecessor. It's down from 200 miles per hour to 149 mph—a huge drop. At least it can still hit 60 miles per hour in 2.5 seconds. Tesla also has new wheel designs for the sedan and SUV, which improve aerodynamics and increase range. Tesla Model S and Model X Range Gains The updates have resulted in Tesla creating its longest-range EV ever—the Model S Long Range. The sedan can travel up to 410 miles on a charge, according to the company, while the Model S Plaid improves to 368 miles. The Model X can now go up to 38 miles more than before—352—while the Plaid gets a 21-mile bump in range to 335. Photo by: Tesla Mild Updates, Fresh New Price Despite the mediocre enhancements to the updated Model S and Model X, Tesla is now charging $5,000 extra across both trims of each car. The Model S now costs $86,630, while the Model S Plaid starts at $101,630. If you want the crossover, you'll pay $91,630 for the Model X with all-wheel drive and $106,630 for the high-performance Plaid variant. Read More Tesla News: The Tesla Model Y Just Got Even Cheaper Elon Musk to Remain Tesla CEO 'Unless I Die' Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Source: Tesla / X Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Tesla Treats the Model S and Model X to Yet Another Minor Refresh, And a $5000 Price Hike
Tesla's two oldest models currently in production, the Model S and Model X, are going through yet another minor refresh, this time focusing on appearance and small quality-of-life improvements — accompanied by a price hike, of course. New paint colors are the highlight for the exterior of the sedan and SUV, with the most exciting one being an alluring Frost Blue Metallic for an extra $2500. A new Diamond Black also arrives as a $1500 option to replace the previous black paint. The Model S Plaid specifically has a new front bumper with redesigned side air intakes; Tesla says the new design is 'optimized for high-speed stability.' All the wheels have been redone, with 19- and 21-inch options on the Model S; the Model X offers both 20- and 22-inch wheels. Other exterior highlights include the addition of a front camera primarily for parking, but it also provides more data for Autopilot and Smart Summon systems. Lastly, the headlights are new, and bring adaptive driving beams to the table. Tesla doesn't elaborate, but the carmaker claims bushing and suspension changes improve the ride of both vehicles. 'More effective' noise cancellation reduces the sound inside the cabin, Tesla says. The interior experience joins the modern world of ambient lighting, too, as the Texas-based automaker adds customizable LED lighting throughout the new models, including changeable colors for the footwells. Packaging updates slightly enhance the Model X's cargo space, adding 2.5 cubic feet of storage. The steering yoke continues to become less relevant with this update, too, as Tesla has removed it as an option from non-Plaid models. It remains as a $1000 check box on the Plaids, but a traditional wheel is standard. You'll be paying significantly more to climb into these updated Model S and Model X models, as both start at $5000 more than before, no matter if you go for the Long Range (up from 402 to 410 miles of range thanks to the new 19-inch wheels) or Plaid versions. That means the Model S Plaid now starts at $101,630 and the Model X Plaid at $106,630, including the mandatory destination-and-order fee. Go for the new blue paint, upsized wheels, an interior color other than black, the yoke and Tesla's 'Full-Self Driving' package, and the cost balloons up to $119,630 on a Model S Plaid. You Might Also Like You Need a Torque Wrench in Your Toolbox Tested: Best Car Interior Cleaners The Man Who Signs Every Car Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Insider
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Insider
Tesla's new Model X and S are quieter, heavier, and more expensive
Tesla's most expensive EVs just got pricier. The carmaker unveiled refreshed versions of the Model S and X on Friday, featuring a host of upgraded features — and a $4,500 price increase. Tesla said the new versions of its electric crossover SUV and sedan, which are now on sale in the US, come with more effective noise cancellation, smoother suspension, and increased range. The Model S Long Range now has 410 miles of range, which Tesla says is its longest-range EV yet, and the Model X All Wheel Drive and Plaid variants have also had their range increased. The upgrade also includes customizable dynamic lighting on the interior, and new front-facing cameras for Tesla's autopilot and "Actually Smart Summon" (ASS) features. Both EVs, which are already the most expensive models Tesla offers, now cost an extra $4,500, and both are now slightly heavier. The Model S Plaid has gained an extra 26 pounds, while the new Model X Plaid is 186 pounds heavier than its predecessor. The updated Model S Plaid also has a top speed of 149mph, less than the 200mph max of the previous version. As two of Tesla's oldest models, the X and S were overdue for a refresh, but the updated EVs do not include many of the more innovative technologies Tesla introduced in the Cybertruck in 2023, such as the divisive pickup's steer-by-wire feature and 800-volt battery pack. The new X and S are unlikely to provide significant assistance in turning around Tesla's sales slump, with the automaker seeing deliveries drop around the globe amid growing competition and backlash against CEO Elon Musk's political interventions. Despite being an important part of Tesla's history, the two luxury EVs now make up a negligible proportion of the company's sales. Tesla sold 12,881 "other models" — which include the Model X and S as well as the Cybertruck — in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 323,800 of its mass market Model 3 and Y vehicles.
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Carmakers are Reinventing the Gear Shifter, Drivers Aren't Onboard
In recent years, carmakers have embraced the technological freedoms that come with electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced electronic systems. This shift has allowed for the removal of traditional mechanical linkages in cars, freeing up interior space for more modern features and, of course, new ways to shift gears. What seemed like a bold leap into the future, however, is increasingly raising the question: Are these high-tech shifters more of a distraction than a breakthrough? For many drivers, the answer seems to be a resounding 'yes.' Gone are the days of the bulky gear shifters that took up space on the center console or steering column. As car manufacturers explore electronic control systems, gear selectors are evolving into smaller, sleeker, and often more complex designs. For example, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 SUV hides its shifter behind the steering wheel, an innovation that caught the attention of Sean O'Malley, a senior test coordinator at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. 'We couldn't find the gear shifter,' O'Malley recalls of a test drive, noting to The Wall Street Journal how difficult it was for him and his colleagues to locate the device in a car that otherwise seemed straightforward. "It was definitely not obvious where it was." While many automakers, such as Hyundai and Tesla, have redefined how we interact with gear shifters, their designs can feel unfamiliar, even disorienting, to anyone not used to them. And the frustration doesn't stop with automotive testers. Car shoppers, renters, and valets alike have found themselves stumped by these unconventional gear selectors, which often require an entirely new set of instructions to operate. Some of the more out-there designs include joystick-like gear selectors, dials, and even touch-screen-based gearshifting. These innovations are often part of an effort to stand out in a competitive market by offering unique, futuristic interiors. Take, for example, the Crystal Sphere shifter found in Genesis's GV60 electric SUV. Described as "automotive art" by the brand, this illuminated orb rotates when the car is powered on, revealing a twist-knob shifter. While it may have wowed a few design enthusiasts, many drivers are left scratching their heads. One driver even reported the orb essentially eating a Post-it note they stuck near it, 'When I turned off the car, it grabbed the paper and pulled it inside,' the driver wrote in an online forum. 'Now, when I turn on or off the car, I can hear the paper. Can't really see it anymore.' Tesla, too, has taken a leap into touch-screen territory with models like the Model S Plaid, where shifting is done on the vehicle's touchscreen. For Jeff Tropeano, a Colorado resident who owns a Model S, the system took some getting used to. "Once you know where something is in your car, it's not that stupid anymore," Tropeano said. But his wife, who doesn't drive the car often, still struggles with the system every time she gets behind the wheel. The push for novel designs is not confined to electric vehicles. The Chrysler Pacifica minivan, for instance, features a dial shifter placed uncomfortably close to the radio's volume knob. One driver expressed concern that the dial was a recipe for mistakes, imagining a situation where someone might accidentally turn the dial while trying to adjust the volume, creating an unintended gear shift. Though Chrysler didn't comment on this issue, it's clear that the user experience is suffering when controls are unintuitive. While these new systems may be more visually striking, they are not without their risks. In fact, some of the new gear shifters have been called out for safety issues. A few years ago, Chrysler's dial shifter system was linked to numerous rollaway accidents and a fatality, prompting federal regulators to declare it 'not intuitive.' Similarly, a recent Consumer Reports test highlighted a potential safety hazard in the Rivian R1S electric SUV, where the vehicle accidentally shifted into reverse while the driver attempted to adjust the adaptive cruise control. Even seemingly small design choices can present significant risks if they confuse the driver. The last thing automakers want is for drivers to get flustered and make dangerous mistakes when shifting gears. Yet, this appears to be the reality for many, as the lack of standardization across vehicles only adds to the confusion. In many cases, the rise of unconventional shifters has been met with frustration and confusion. Linda Hoff, a 65-year-old Michigan resident who rents cars frequently, found herself lost when attempting to reverse a Nissan Rogue equipped with a joystick-like gear selector. "I didn't even know how to drive this damn car," Hoff said, admitting that it took a tutorial from the rental agency before she figured it out. Hoff's experience isn't unique. Many drivers who aren't accustomed to newer systems feel the same disconnection. Even those who drive newer vehicles regularly find themselves irritated by the lack of consistency. Will Clayton, a 33-year-old finance worker from Greenville, South Carolina, often rents cars for business trips. When he encountered the Chrysler Pacifica's dial shifter, he immediately wondered if anyone had tested the design before it was rolled out. 'I can't think of any consumer push for a radical change in gear-shifters,' Clayton commented, echoing the sentiments of many frustrated drivers. "Whose idea was this?" The trend toward quirky gear selectors is not likely to disappear anytime soon. With the rise of EVs and an increasing reliance on electronic interfaces, automakers have the freedom to get creative with their designs. Some of these changes may eventually find their way into the mainstream, particularly as drivers become more accustomed to the new systems. However, it's clear that the shift to more exotic gear selectors isn't going to be easy for everyone to embrace. As automakers continue to push the boundaries of design, one thing is certain: not every innovation will land with the driving public. As the market floods with new and bizarre gearshifting solutions, many drivers will undoubtedly continue asking, 'Whose idea was this?'
