The Model X comes in a simplified set of configurations, with a list of options to upgrade where desired. A Model X in the base Long Range Plus configuration is claimed to be able to hit 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds although Tesla does not brag about a specific horsepower number. Model X Performance models quicken the pace to 0-60 mph in only 2.7 seconds. Both of those figures are staggering, making both models one of the fastest cars on the road. A single-speed transmission is all that is needed to transmit that power to the road, since unlike a traditional gasoline engine, electric motors make plenty of power all the way up to the redline.
The two challenges electric cars must overcome have traditionally been lack of power range per charge. Range for the Model X Plaid model is a claimed 326 miles, and the Base model tops out at 335 miles. As part of the deal, drivers get access to Tesla's ever-expanding network of "Supercharger" fast charging stations. With these stations placed across the United States, owners may plug in their Teslas to recharge for no additional fee. Tesla claims that about 20 minutes at a supercharger station will charge the batteries about halfway.
Standard features on the Tesla Model X include most of the basic luxury SUV amenities, though several features stand out. The so-called "Falcon-Wing" doors might be the most talked about feature on the Model X. The front doors open as any normal car door would, but the rear doors open up and out of the way, folding in the middle to avoid touching any adjacent cars. The advantage is a generous access into the vehicle, making ingress and egress particularly easy. Another unique feature of the Model X is the panoramic glass roof. The windshield stretches back, curving above the driver's head before finally meeting the tops of the rear doors. There is no break in the glass before that point, meaning one piece of glass acts as both a windscreen and a moonroof.
Other standard equipment on the Model X includes a class-3 tow package, a 22-speaker premium sound system, an auto-leveling suspension system and power-adjustable heated front seats. A heated leather steering wheel, proximity keyless entry and dual zone front climate control are also included.
Tesla's most famous option is probably "Enhanced Autopilot." When equipped, the Model X will keep pace with the other cars on the road, speeding up and slowing down with them, but it will also keep to its lane, even around gentle corners. The optional Full Self-Driving system also includes a 360-degree camera and can, under certain circumstances, park itself.
Standard safety features include front and rear parking sensors, active lane departure, blind spot warning, forward collision mitigation, rear collision warning, pedestrian detection system and traffic sign information display.
Tesla does not update the Model X on a year-to-year basis, instead choosing to incrementally improve the car over time through production changes as well as over the air updates. The Tesla Model X carries over with minimal changes for 2024.
The electric vehicle field is a small, but competitive and constantly expanding field. The Tesla Model X may be the premiere electric vehicle available. The main competitors include Mercedes EQE SUV, BMW iX and Audi Q8 e-tron. It is the first electric crossover to have available seating for 7 and those "falcon wing" doors are one of a kind. With a standard battery configuration that Tesla claims to be good for well over 300 miles on a charge, it sets a bar too high for any other electric vehicle at any price.