2024 Tesla Model X Review: Not So Cutting-Edge Anymore
While the Cybertruck may be the big news in the EV world right now - at least where Tesla is concerned - its other models still sell well in their respective markets. For the midsize SUV segment, the Tesla Model X remains one of the top contenders with an excellent maximum range of 335 miles and impressive performance specs for such a large vehicle, courtesy of 690 hp twin motors. But while it may still have more range than the base BMW iX, the Rivian R1S can surpass it, just like some other newer EVs. With competition heating up as much as it is, and more premium automakers starting to take the electric segment seriously, it is now time for Tesla to step up its game if it wants to stay near the front of the pack.
New for 2024
The new Tesla Model X SUV remains mostly unchanged, but it gets some quality-of-life updates, like a redesigned glass roof that lets in more natural light. The contentious yoke steering wheel is no longer the only option, and a more traditional flat-bottomed one takes its place (the yoke is still available as an option). Buyers can also choose from an additional exterior paint color called Stealth Grey. There are some changes for the X Plaid, too, but we review that trim separately.
2024 Tesla Model X Price: Which One to Buy
With only one model in its standard lineup, the price of the Tesla Model X starts at $79,990 MSRP. This doesn't include the $1,390 destination charge, but the overall cost is somewhat offset by the incentives you get when buying an electric vehicle in some regions of the USA.
As for which model to buy, there isn't exactly much choice, and options are limited, too. You only get to choose the $6,000 Enhanced Autopilot or the $12,000 Full Self-Driving Capability. There are still many concerns around fully autonomous driving, and the system is far from perfect, so you could easily do without it. The Autopilot is a bit more reliable in its specified circumstances. We'd also avoid the larger wheels as they hurt fuel economy and hinder the maximum towing capacity.
Long Range |
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Long Range |
$ 79990 |
All-wheel-drive dual-motor electric powertrain (670 hp) |
20-inch wheels |
Tri-zone climate control with remote start |
Heated and ventilated front seats |
17-inch touchscreen |
Interior and Features
The clean and minimalist interior of the Model X is no longer unique to Tesla cars, but build quality remains a concern.
Tesla presents the Model X as a premium SUV, and while the interior seems to sing the same tune at a glance, a closer inspection reveals that some components are a little off-key. The overall appearance is futuristic but minimalist, with an enormous touchscreen located over an otherwise featureless central console. Luckily, the old gamer-like yoke has been replaced with something people will feel more comfortable with. Controversy remains about quality, and this negatively affects sound damping and overall comfort. Like most large SUVs these days, you can fit, or try to fit, seven passengers inside the Model X, but the rear-most seats are extremely limited in space. Luckily, the second row is quite spacious, and it becomes even more comfortable when you swap out the bench for a pair of captain's chairs. Power-adjustable seats help ensure you can find a comfortable driving position, while standard heating and ventilation mean you can handle any sort of weather. Getting and and out is quite easy, and the ambient lighting certainly makes the whole experience more dramatic.
Space
Like most full-size SUVs these days, you can fit up to seven passengers inside the Model X, but the rear-most seats are extremely limited in space. Luckily, the second row is quite spacious, and it becomes even more comfortable when you swap out the bench for a pair of captain's chairs. Power-adjustable seats help ensure you can find a comfortable driving position, while standard heating and ventilation mean you can handle any sort of weather. Getting and and out is quite easy, and the ambient lighting certainly makes the whole experience more dramatic.
Cargo
Interior space is not only good for passengers, as the trunk can also support up to 13 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row. This isn't bad, but cargo space is far more generous if you treat the SUV as a five-seater, which gives you 37.1 cu-ft. Folding down all but the frontmost seats allows you to store as much as 85.1 cubes. There is also 6.5 cubic feet of space in the frunk.
Sadly, small-item storage is not as impressive, with narrow door pockets, and a relatively small center armrest cubby. Luckily, each row of seats gets a pair of cupholders, and there is a standard glove compartment.
Tesla Model X | Rivian R1S SUV | BMW iX | |
---|---|---|---|
Seating | 5 Seater | 7 Seater | 5 Seater |
Headroom | 41.7 in. front 41 in. rear | 41.1 in. front 39.7 in. rear | 42 in. front 39.5 in. rear |
Legroom | 41.1 in. front 38.7 in. rear | 41.4 in. front 36.6 in. rear | 40.2 in. front 38.9 in. rear |
Cargo | 13 - 85.1 ft³ (6.5 ft³ frunk) | 5.1- 93.9 ft³ (11.1 ft³) | 35.5 - 77.9 ft³ |
Materials and Colors
There are three interior color schemes to choose from, but only the all-black with Ebony decor is free of charge. For an extra $2,000, you can have either Black and White or Cream, both with Walnut decor. No matter which option you go for, cruelty-free vegan leatherette is the only upholstery on offer. However, the quality of the materials is not overly impressive, and the build quality is actually quite poor, with many panels not lining up perfectly. Rattles around the cabin are not unexpected.
Features and Infotainment
If there is one thing Tesla does well, it's tech. Since there is only one trim for the Model X and not a lot of options, almost everything comes included as standard. Tri-zone climate control, keyless entry, heated and ventilated front seats with 12-way power adjustability and memory, a heated steering wheel, remote start, a 12.3-inch driver-information display, and self-closing doors are all part and parcel of the base model. For infotainment, an enormous 17-inch touchscreen grants access to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, navigation, and SiriusXM, all played through a comprehensive 22-speaker sound system.
Long Range | |
---|---|
Tri-zone climate control | S |
Heated and ventilated front seats | S |
Remote start | S |
17-inch touchscreen | S |
22-speaker sound system | S |
Performance
One area where Tesla has never failed to impress is the sheer quickness of its cars, and even the large Model X can hit 60 mph in under four seconds.
Two electric motors power the Tesla Model X, supplying it with 670 hp, sent to all four wheels via a single-speed automatic transmission. This impressively powerful setup allows the Model X to sprint from 0-60 mph in a brisk 3.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 155 mph. All of this means that the Tesla has no trouble overtaking other cars on the highway, but you may notice some droning from the motors when you push them to their limits.
While it may not be a Plaid in terms of performance, the regular Model X is plenty quick and responsive. It may lack the character of an ICE car, but the Tesla EV is grippy, and the suspension does a good job of keeping everything you want it to be around the corners. The main thing holding it back from feeling like a sports SUV is the lifeless steering feel. On the plus side, comfort is guaranteed by the standard adaptive air suspension.
Fuel Efficiency
Tesla has always been the one to beat in terms of electric mileage, and even its largest model gets great mpg returns. According to the EPA, it manages 107/97/102 MPGe across the city/highway/combined cycles, and with a 100-kWh battery, the Model X can achieve a maximum range of 335 miles.
This battery takes around 6.5 hours to fully charge the Model X on a Tesla home charging setup, while another four hours are needed on a standard charger. Tesla's Supercharger network will add up to 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes.
Electric Single Speed Automatic AWD | |
---|---|
Power | 670 hp |
Top speed | 155 mph |
MPG | 107/97/102 mpg |
0-60 | 3.8 sec |
Battery Range | 348 miles |
Charge Time | Up to 200 miles can be added in 15 minutes on a SuperchargerAt least 6.5 hours needed on Wallbox |
Safety
Despite a number of reliability concerns, the Tesla Model X remains a top pick for safety organizations like the IIHS.
While there is no comprehensive safety rating for the Tesla Model X from the NHTSA or IIHS, the mechanically similar Model Y scored very well with the IIHS and even earned a Top Safety Pick+ award in 2023. But considering how many driver-assistance features, there should be no need to worry.
Starting off with ten airbags, the Model X expands this with forward collision avoidance tech, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, blind-spot assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and the compulsory rearview camera. You can option a number of semi-autonomous driving systems, such as auto lane change, autopark, smart summon, autosteer, and even all functionality Autopilot in areas that support it.
Long Range | |
---|---|
Forward collision mitigation | S |
Blind-spot assist | S |
Lane-keep assist | S |
Autopark and summon | O |
Fully autonomous driving | O |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Rollover Rating |
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5/5 |
Reliability
Tesla does not have a good reputation for reliability, and JD Power only has an overall rating, rather than one for quality and dependability. So far, the 2024 model has no recalls issued, but the 2023 version was recalled 10 times and was subject to numerous complaints. Some of the reasons included doors unlocking during a crash, an incorrect driver airbag, and crashes caused by the self-driving software. Some of these issues were carried over from 2022, where a total of 16 recalls were lodged.
The warranty for the Tesla Model X includes four years/50,000 years of limited coverage, and eight years/150,000 miles for the battery and powertrain.
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
---|---|---|---|
4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 8 Years / Unlimited Miles | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
Design
All Tesla cars are built to be visually appealing and evoke a feeling of being part of the future. The Model X does this with smooth and sleek curves and a lack of any conventional grille. The LED headlights are rimmed by daytime running lights on the underside. You also get LED foglights right from the get-go. Perhaps the most striking feature is the panoramic windshield, which is one of the largest of any production vehicle. The profile is simple but slimmed down by smooth creases and the rear fascia boasts a trunk lid spoiler and C-shaped LED brake lights that extend from the edges across the trunk. The SUV comes outfitted with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard but it can get a set of 22-wheel, though we wouldn't recommend these.
Verdict: Is The 2024 Tesla Model X A Good SUV?
Though it is starting to feel a bit dated now, the 2024 Model X remains a popular choice for buyers trying to get into the electric market. It's a spacious SUV with multiple layout options to fit just about any family. Performance is good and overall range is still up there with the best of them. However, low quality, constant recalls, and disruptive styling fail to wow potential buyers. Now that rivals have caught up in the key areas where Tesla excels, it can no longer afford to cut corners in areas where everyone else puts in the work. Lowering the price of ownership simply isn't enough to make the Model X a top choice anymore, especially now that legitimate alternatives are starting to hit the market at a rapid rate. If there isn't already something you like more than Tesla's large SUV, give it a few months, and there may be another option.