When it's time to purchase a new vehicle, many criteria can steer you towards or away from a certain model and, in the case of the Tesla Model X, this luxury SUV is attractive for its astonishing acceleration, impressive handling, and numerous advanced tech features. What may deter you, however, is a questionable level of attention shown to build quality and few actual luxury features. Nevertheless, its impressive range and clear sense of style can be good enough to help you overlook these problems. A fully electric SUV, the Model X is powered by a pair of electric motors that turn all four wheels so fast that you get to 60 mph in less than four seconds, making it easily faster than rivals like the Jaguar I-Pace. The Model X's range on a full charge is also commendable. Should that not be quick enough, a Plaid model (reviewed separately) is available for even more ludicrous acceleration. Whichever you choose, is the Tesla good enough to trump its competitors or is it just a fashion statement?
Tesla makes many changes to its vehicles throughout the year so the changes reflected here may not apply to every 2022 Model X. Nevertheless, there are some changes that we know about. The Model X's range is now 351 miles according to the manufacturer, and the price has risen dramatically by nearly $20,000. The 'Long Range' name has also been dropped; the base SUV is now simply known as the Model X. Other than this, there are no other major changes since the 2021 update was quite a big one with a new infotainment display and steering wheel.
See trim levels and configurations:
Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Model X |
Electric
|
Single Speed Automatic
|
All-Wheel Drive
|
$120,990 |
SUVs are not generally renowned for their handling characteristics, but the low center of gravity that results from floor-mounted batteries has given the Model X an impressive level of poise in the corners, with minimal body roll. The acceleration is one thing, but your brain has to completely readjust to how capable the Model X is in the corners, remaining composed and sharp as the all-wheel-drive grip pulls it around bends with impressive style. Unfortunately, the steering is devoid of feel, but that is to be expected on a vehicle where everything runs off electric assistance. That said, at least you can adjust the weight of the wheel to your liking.
In terms of comfort, the standard adaptive air suspension system soaks up imperfections well, making it easy for you to relax on long journeys, a benefit that is once again enhanced by the substantial weight of the vehicle. However, the optional 22-inch wheels are less forgiving, so we'd steer clear of these.
When it comes time to stop, the regenerative braking system does a good job of slowing the car and it will take a little bit of getting used to for you to nail perfectly smooth stops as your natural instinct is to use the brake pedal. Rather, let the system slow itself and use the brakes only when necessary and you'll find a new level of driving enjoyment. This too can be configured, meaning you can set how the regenerative braking system acts to better suit what feels natural for you.
NHTSA safety ratings are not available at this time.
The Tesla Model X is certainly unconventional and highly advanced. It boasts insane acceleration, exceptional handling for the class, massive cargo space, and decent towing capacity too. As an electric vehicle, it is expected to perform well and offer decent range, but the Model X stands out by being noteworthy even when compared to other fully-electric vehicles. It's also very safe as we've seen above, and offers novel features, games, and hidden abilities that make it all the more charming. Optional features are also not excessively priced, considering the base price, but even in standard form, the Model X offers more than most would need, with plenty of space for up to seven individuals. It is let down by its average build quality and misaligned panels, but other than that, it is truly special. If you can afford one, the Model X is certainly the best electric SUV on the market.
Competitor | Horsepower | MPG | Price (MSRP) |
---|---|---|---|
Tesla Model X | 670 hp | 107/97 mpg | $79,990 |
Tesla Model Y | 425 hp | 127/117 mpg | $43,990 |
Tesla Model S | 670 hp | 124/115 mpg | $74,990 |
The Model Y is Tesla's newer but more compact crossover model. The Long Range version of the Model Y begins at a much more accessible $62,990 and boasts a 330-mile range and a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds. That means it's not as quick as the Model X nor does it have the same range but it's still better than virtually every other SUV. Of course, you can go for the Model Y Performance which is quicker than the Model X and nearly $50,000 cheaper. The Model Y is spacious inside but not as expansive as the Model X and it does without the fancy Falcon Wing rear doors. If you don't need the additional space and range offered by the Model X, the Y could be for you, especially if you value affordability and performance.
The Model S is arguably Tesla's most beautiful vehicle yet, especially from the front. Like the Model X, the Model S was recently revised with a new steering wheel and infotainment system. The Model S is cheaper than the equivalent Model X, faster to 60 mph (3.1 seconds to 3.8 seconds for the Model X), and has a much longer range of over 400 miles. The available Model S Plaid offers insane acceleration and a range of nearly 400 miles. Being a sedan, the Model S can't match the Model X in terms of cargo capacity. Otherwise, the two vehicles are similarly equipped. With essentially the same capabilities and features but more range and more power, the Model S is an excellent choice and the one we'd choose if we didn't need ultimate space.
The most popular competitors of 2022 Tesla Model X: