Tesla Model S Vs Model X: The Two Veteran Evs Compared
Of the four electric vehicles currently available in Teslas fleet, its Model S and Model X sit as the two longest in production. At a higher price point than Teslas two newer models, these veteran EVs offer a combination of the efficiency, performance, and luxury that originally put Tesla on the map. Below is a thorough comparison of Teslas Model S sedan vs. its Model X mid-sized SUV.
Tesla Model X Plaid Proves Quicker Than Claimed In Real
The Tesla Model X Plaid may not usually receive as much attention as its sibling, the Model S Plaid, but the six-seat all-electric SUV is nothing to scoff at. With 1,020 horsepower and three electric motors, Tesla claims that the vehicle could go from 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. Thats enough to give some supercars a run for their money.
If a recent real-world test is any indication, however, it appears that Tesla actually understated some of the Model X Plaids capabilities. The test was conducted by YouTubes Vehicle Virgins channel as part of a more extensive review of the flagship SUV. The YouTube reviewer was generally impressed with the Model X Plaid, noting that while it feels slightly slower than the Model S Plaid, the all-electric SUV still feels very quick and responsive in its own right.
Things became extra interesting, however, when the auto reviewer set up a VBOX to test the Model X Plaids 0-60 mph performance. After engaging Drag Strip Mode and waiting for the vehicle to get ready, the auto reviewer launched the flagship all-electric SUV. Surprisingly enough, the Model X Plaid did not show a 0-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds like what Tesla is claiming on its official website. The vehicle completed its 0-60 mph run in 2.3 seconds instead.
Watch the Tesla Model X Plaids 0-60 mph launch in the video below.
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What Is Tesla Model X
Tesla describes its Model X EV as a mid-sized SUV that currently sits as the automakers second longest running model on its shared assembly lines with the Model S. The two EVs also share over a quarter of the same parts although they look quite different in design.
Originally unveiled in 2012, first deliveries of the Model X didnt begun until 2015 due to a focus on the Model S production followed by a slew of delays.
While neither of these two Tesla models saw arguably overdue overhauls to their design in 2020, the new year said otherwise. In late 2020, Tesla had announced a complete production shutdown for both models through the holidays and into the new year. This move has led toward speculation about a possible refresh of both EVs. Finally, Tesla came forth and confirmed a refresh was in fact coming for both veteran models.
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Tesla Model S Vs Tesla Model X: Autopilot And Other Features
When it comes to tech features then both cars sport similar characteristics including Teslas Autopilot driver assistance package. Again, what you actually get is largely dependent on your budget and naturally theres a little more scope with the Model X interior since theres more space to play around with.
Indeed, head for the six seat captains chair interior for the Model X and you can beef up the interior look and comfort levels considerably, along with the cost.
Either way, both the Tesla Model S and the Tesla Model X offer lots on the infotainment front, including Bluetooth, hard drive storage, satellite radio, smart device integration and a Wi-Fi hotspot for starters. Add on big-ticket kit, such as the full self-driving option and youre also going to add $12,000 to the asking price.
Of course if you live in the U.S. both the Model S and Model X are not eligible for Tesla’s Full Self Driving subscription, which costs just $200 a month. That’s a lot to spend, but it would take you four years to reach the same $12,000 asking price if you bought the module in one fell swoop. And since there are no contracts or obligations, you can stop anytime.
Full Self Driving Update 27/01/2022
Teslas most advanced driver-assistance system will be available for a monthly subscription
Elon Musk has said hell be shocked if Tesla doesnt produce a Full Self Driving system update that makes its latest cars safer than human drivers by the end of 2022.
Teslas Full Self-Driving system , which up until now was a £6,800 option on its Model 3, S and X vehicles, will now be available as a monthly subscription.
While not technically able to drive the car autonomously 100% of the time, it does offer an advanced suite of driver aids from collision warnings and emergency braking assist to auto parking and lane changing. It even has a smart summon feature which allows the car to navigate to you in a parking lot.
With periodic over-the-air updates adding to the systems abilities, Teslas FSD tech is one of the most advanced systems of its kind. However, some owners may not yet be ready to part with a lump sum for a technology that is still in development and the monthly subscription option will be a far more viable choice for them.
Features such as automatic steering and stopping on city streets are planned for release in due course.
Pricing for the US market is $199 per month if you have basic autopilot fitted or $99 if you have the enhanced autopilot feature . UK pricing has yet to be announced but should be approximately £145 at current exchange rates. The subscription can be cancelled at any time.
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Model X Cargo Space Vs Model Y Cargo Space
For the Model X, Tesla’s best number is the 92.3 cubic feet of total cargo space with the six-seat configuration, including the 6.6 cu-ft “frunk” under the hood .
It’s not a surprise that the Model X has significantly more total cargo space than the Model Y and, more important, space inside the vehicle for larger objects. It’s also worth noting the Model X’s Falcon Wing doors and larger rear hatch will make loading both people and larger, bulkier items easier than in the Model Y. On the other hand, its conventional rear doors allow the Model Y to be fitted with a roof rack to accommodate larger items.
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The Model S Has Superior Range At A Lower Cost
It’s a rare occurrence that the cheaper option has superior range, but that’s exactly what the Tesla Model S provides at a sub six-figure price tag. Since the batteries that power Tesla cars degrade over time like all rechargeable batteries it’s necessary to purchase the electric vehicle that meets a buyer’s needs at the time of sale. In fact, it’s best to overestimate the required range of a vehicle with the expectation that it will decrease due to external factors like lifespan, temperature, and the frequency of charging. With that said, the 348-mile range of the Model X is a standout option for drivers who will make use of the SUV’s extra space for passengers and cargo.
Aside from the maximum range, there are key differentiating factors between the Model S and Model X electric cars. The Model S is the cheaper and quicker option starting at just under $100,000, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. Both vehicles are rated at a 155 mph top speed with all-wheel drive motors, but because the Model X is heavier, it’s slower off the line the SUV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. That extra weight corresponds to additional room in the cabin, with seven seats and 88 cubic feet of storage capacity. It also comes at an additional cost the Model X is roughly $15,000 more expensive than the base Model S. Potential Tesla customers will have to take all these factors into consideration before deciding which one to buy.
If You Are Looking For A Summary Of The Tesla Model S/model X Refresh Here It Is
Tesla recently announced a new, deeply refreshed Model S and Model X, including new top of the line “Plaid” versions . Production should start soon , after a period of a break to upgrade the Tesla Factory in Fremont, California. The Model S Plaid+ version will appear a little bit later, in “late 2021.”
According to Tesla, the new Model S/ Model X are equipped with a new powertrain , an entirely new interior, exterior updates and “other improvements”. Those other improvements are, for example, a lithium-ion 12V auxiliary battery, heat pump .
Tesla explains that both the battery pack and modules have been fully redesigned. Together with other changes, it improved energy efficiency and allows Tesla to increase the number of high-speed quarter-mile runs by 5-times, compared to the prior architecture.
There is no word about change in the cells, which means that both models are still equipped with cylindrical 18650 type, compared to 2170 in Model 3/Model Y, and upcoming 4680.
The Model S Plaid and Plaid+, as well as the Model X Plaid, are equipped with three electric motors with high speed, high-power, “carbon-sleeved rotors” .
Thanks to three electric motors and higher system output, the Plaid versions will become the quickest production cars ever introduced.
We would like to note a few of the features:
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Model S And Model X Plaid Driving And Safety
You might expect a car that performs so well to have to sacrifice an element of safety to achieve those levels of performance. However, the electric car giants have included an array of safety features in the latest models alongside drive assist technology that maintains Teslas excellent safety record.
The future of automobiles seems to be headed towards eliminating the need to actually drive the car yourself and Tesla have taken another step towards that. Its latest autopilot technology can steer, accelerate and brake for you, though you must actively supervise.
Automatic emergency braking is included should you need it. 360° cameras providing maximum visibility, as well as 12 ultrasonic sensors will likely render it useless, but it is nice to know it is there. If for some reason, however unlikely, that the car is involved in an accident, front impact protection is enhanced by the chassis front end pillars.
Speaking of the chassis. Its high strength architecture and floor mounted battery back keeps the car safe in any large impact and drastically reduces the rollover risk. Tesla themselves recently posted the below video, showing the Model Y being tested. We expect the Model S and X Plaids to deliver similar results.
Model S And Model X Plaid Price
With both the Model S and Model X expected sometime in 2021, leasing prices are somewhat unconfirmed. To buy them outright will cost you £110,980 currently.
You can however search our leasing options on the original Model S and Model X and assume that the upcoming models wont be too dissimilar in price.
Dont want to wait for the Plaid versions? Compare leasing offers on both the Model S and Model X on Moneyshake.
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Model S And Model X Plaid Practicality
Aside from being able to drive over 340 miles on a single charge, the latest Tesla models come with a range of handy features that add to its already impressive practicality.
We have already mentioned the ability for all passengers to wirelessly charge their mobile phones. Tesla make further strides with software updates to your car that are done over-the-air. As well as the summon feature, which allows you to automatically retrieve your car.
You wont find yourself lacking storage space either. The back row of seats can be folded down flat in both versions, with the taller Model X Plaid offering up to 2,577-litres of storage.
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Manuel Carrillo III
Automotive Reviews Editor
A Porsche 911 S brought Manuel Carrillo III home from the hospital after he was born, so it’s no surprise his lifelong trajectory has centered on cars, leading him to a robust career creating rich automotive media for publications prior to joining CNET.The Southern California native briefly lived in Sydney, and is proud to have developed a barely passable Aussie accent. He also serves on the board of directors of the Motor Press Guild. When not reviewing cars or nerding out on OEM premium audio, you can find manual-labor-averse Manuel doing his best to convince his closest friends to fix the very Porsche that delivered him home.
Chris Paukert
Executive Editor / Cars
Following stints in TV news production and as a record company publicist, Chris has spent most of his entire career in automotive publishing. Mentored by “Automobile Magazine” founder David E. Davis, Jr., Paukert succeeded Davis as Editor-in-Chief of Winding Road, a pioneering e-mag, before serving as Autoblog’s Executive Editor from 2008 to 2015.Chris is a Webby and Telly award-winning video producer and has been serving on the jury of the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards since 2010. He proudly joined the CNET team in mid-2015, bringing a small cache of odd, underappreciated cars with him.
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Tesla To Unveil Model S Plaid In China On November 5
Tesla shared a poster in China showing off the Tesla Model S Plaid, ahead of plans to debut the electric sedan at the upcoming China International Import Expo in Shanghai beginning on November 5 .
The poster shows a shot of the Model S Plaid in front of a raceway-style sign displaying 2.1 seconds, signifying the vehicles quick acceleration from 0-100 km/hr.
As translated from Chinese, the poster reads, One of the fastest accelerating mass production cars in the world, and one of the mass production cars with the lowest drag coefficient in the world, it has repeatedly refreshed the records of mass production electric cars on multiple tracks in the world.
Tesla Model S Plaid vs $10 Million Bugatti Divo in 1/4 Mile Drag Race
Fuel Economy And Real
While EVs such as the Chevy Bolt and Polestar 2 deliver serviceable driving range the Model S remains an impressive alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles when it comes to long-distance usability. The base model receives the highest MPGe ratings at 121 city and 112 highway. In our real-world, 75-mph highway fuel economy test, a 2020 Model S we tested posted a 222-mile highway range number against its 326-mile EPA estimated driving range the Plaid managed 280 miles of its claimed 390 miles of range. For more information about the Model S’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
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Tesla Model S And Model X Plaid On Sale In Europe: Price Specs And Release Date
The wait for a new Tesla Model S or Model X is over as both models go on sale in Europe for the first time. Any downsides? Well, theyll set you back more than £115,000 Read on for full details.
You can now buy a new Tesla Model S or Model X Plaid well, if you live in Europe, at least. These range-topping cars are back on sale as Tesla gets ready to start the first deliveries of its Plaid-powered flagships in Europe.
Which To Choose: Tesla Model S Or The Model X
Overall, these are Teslas longest produced vehicles for a reason. Both helped make the automaker a household name, and provide the luxury and performance many other EVs have yet to match.
In terms of overall performance, the Model S in any trim stands on its own. Head to head, the Model S won on paper in nearly every category except price and cargo space, offering more performance value for your dollar.
That being said, the Model X SUV sits as a close second, especially after this latest refresh. It offers impressive performance on a larger and heavier vehicle.
The Model X is also a clear winner in additional features, tendering Falcon Wing doors, best in class cargo space, and multiple seating options to fit five to seven passengers.
If your preference is performance , the Model S is the better bet. However, if you prefer to get behind the wheel of an EV that can haul a lot of cargo and/or passengers while still providing great range and speed, the Model X is a no brainer.
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Range Charging And Battery Life
Under the Tesla’s floor lies a battery pack that yields a low center of gravity and evenly distributed weight from front to rear. Driving range and acceleration performance varies from model to model, with the base version’s battery providing up to a 412-mile range while the Plaid model offers up to 390. Upstart Lucid Motors says its Air luxury sedan is rated for up to 517 miles per charge.
