- Power
- 670 hp
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drive
- AWD
- Fuel
- Electric
- Seats
- 7
TeslaSUVModel X2016–present
A spectacular but complicated flagship, buy the newest, best-documented example you can.
- 🇺🇸 North America
- 🇪🇺 Europe
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇨🇳 China
- 🇦🇺 Australia & NZ
- Power
- 670 hp
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drive
- AWD
- Fuel
- Electric
- Seats
- 7
- Body
- SUV
Overview
What this generation is, and who it suits.
The Tesla Model X is the brand's flagship SUV, launched alongside great fanfare over its signature double-hinged falcon-wing rear doors. Sharing its platform with the Model S, it offers up to seven seats, strong all-wheel-drive performance and, in refreshed Plaid form, absurd acceleration for a family SUV. Like the Model S it has never been replaced by a numbered new generation, instead receiving continuous updates including the major 2021 refresh with new interior and powertrains.
The Model X's ownership story is more complicated than its sedan sibling's. The falcon-wing doors and complex seals were persistent sources of faults and wind noise, particularly on earlier cars, and overall it carries more mechanisms to go wrong than any other Tesla. When sorted it is a uniquely rapid, spacious family EV; a neglected example can be a warranty case study. Pre-purchase inspection of doors, half-shafts and air suspension is essential.
Pros & cons
What's good
- Enormous performance for a three-row family SUV
- Distinctive falcon-wing doors and theatre-like cabin
- Supercharger network access in supported markets
- Continuous over-the-air feature updates
What to watch
- Falcon-wing doors are complex and historically fault-prone
- More mechanisms and squeaks than any other Tesla
- Expensive to repair without official support nearby
- Early cars share ageing-component risks with early Model S
Owner reviews
Written by people who have lived with this model.
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Trims & specs
One card per trim, with the spec spread across every year it was sold.
Frequently asked questions
Are the falcon-wing doors reliable?
They improved substantially over the years but remain the car's most complex system, with sensors, actuators and seals that can fail. Test every opening cycle thoroughly on any used example.
Is the Model X practical as a family car?
Yes, with six or seven-seat layouts, a large cabin and strong safety credentials. The doors help access in tight spaces but cannot accept conventional roof boxes, which limits luggage expansion.
What does towing do to the range?
The Model X is rated to tow a useful amount, but expect electric range to fall dramatically with a trailer attached, as with all EVs. Plan charging stops accordingly on towing trips.
