2021 Tesla Model X Plaid Review: The Proof Is In The Plaid
With a ludicrous 1,020 horsepower from its tri-motor electric powertrain, the 2021 Tesla Model X Plaid is evidence that Elon Musk, once again, has something to prove. That something is that electric cars are not just as proficient as regular combustion-engined cars, but rather that they are more proficient and that they don't have to sacrifice economy for power. The Model X Plaid SUV boasts a 0 to 60 mph dash of 2.5 seconds, a quarter-mile sprint of 9.9 seconds, and a top speed of 163 mph. This means that the Tesla outperforms rivals such as the Porsche Taycan Turbo S and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupe. Despite all that performance potential, the Model X Plaid SUV still maintains class-leading EV aptitude, including a driving range upwards of 330 miles. Is there really anything left for Musk to prove when it comes to electric cars and the future of the automotive industry? Well, with the Model X Plaid's exorbitantly high pricing and questionable build quality, there's certainly still space to grow.
2021 Model X Plaid Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 198.3 in | 116.7 in | 66.0 in | 78.7 in | 67.1 in | 67.3 in | 5,390.0 lbs |
2021 Model X Plaid Performance
2021 Model X Plaid Interior
2021 Model X Plaid Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 8 Years / Unlimited Miles | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Tesla Model X Plaid A Good SUV?
With more power than any SUV truly needs and the quickest acceleration time of any regular vehicle, the Model X Plaid is the highest-performing roadworthy SUV ever built. But its instantaneous access to 1,020 hp and a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of 2.5 seconds are not the only factors that make it a great car. Its tri-electric motor EV powertrain also grants it an impressive driving range, which leads the classification, and a 5,000-pound towing capacity. Of course, some will admire the Tesla Model X for the futuristic charm conveyed by its flowing and minimalistic design elements which are carried from its exterior through to its cabin. The F1-styled yoke steering wheel may not be appealing to everyone, but there's no denying that the digital driver display, 17-inch infotainment touchscreen, and secondary rear-seat screen, which incorporates wireless controller connectivity, imbue the Tesla with a genuinely futuristic and one-of-a-kind look and feel. Safety shouldn't be a concern, either, since the NHTSA review of the 2021 Tesla Model X Plaid returned a perfect five-star rating. Really, the only thing holding the SUV back is its massive price tag. Nevertheless, Tesla continues the pioneer the EV market with impressive and truly superior electric vehicles, the Model X Plaid being one of the most spectacular.
What Tesla Model X Plaid Model Should I Buy?
The Plaid is the performance-specified version of the familiar Model X, and as such, is put forward as a standalone model. At a price of $144,490, the 2021 Tesla Model X Plaid SUV may be the most expensive in the line, but it is also comprehensively outfitted with all of Tesla's top-shelf creature comforts, conveniences, and infotainment technology, including the new yoke-styled heated steering wheel, the new 17-inch infotainment system touchscreen, a 22-speaker sound system, and front and rear seat heating functionality. The standard driver-assist suite is quite advanced and extensive, and Tesla's AutoPilot self-driving software is a compelling proposition. It will install the Tesla Model X with the ability to steer, accelerate and brake automatically, making the most burdensome parts of driving easier. If opted in, you also won't have to pay more for it once Tesla has sent out more over-the-air updates.