The Tesla Model X emerged in 2015 for the 2016 model year as the third offering from Tesla, after the Roadster and Model S. At its debut, there was nothing else quite like it on the road. With seating for up to seven and a range of up to 257 miles, the car essentially had no competitors. A lot has changed in the five years that followed, as legacy brands have introduced intense competition, but as a tech leader, Tesla has adapted to and welcomed change. For 2021, the Model X gained a refreshed interior, greater tech, and even greater expanded range.

Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel

2021 Tesla Model X Powertrains And Range

MX-Hero-Desktop-1
Via: Tesla

In an effort to not encroach on Model Y territory, the Model X has been pushed further upmarket. For 2021, the Tesla Model X is now available in just two configurations: the 'Long-Range' and the performance-oriented 'Plaid.' Both feature the brand's signature flagship 100 kWh battery.

The Model X Long-Range features two electric motors that make a combined 670 hp. The Tesla Model X 'Long-Range' can also go 360 miles on a single charge. The Tesla Model X 'Plaid' arrives on the market in late 2021 as the most powerful SUV ever built. Utilizing three electric motors, the 'Plaid' produces an earth-shattering 1,020 hp. The range is slightly shorter at 340 miles per charge.

Related: Here Are The Coolest Options Tesla Offers For Their 2021 Models

2021 Tesla Model X Performance And Handling

ModelX-Homepage-D
Via: Tesla

In either of its two available configurations, the 2021 Tesla Model X is a class-leading performer. The standard 670-hp 'Long-Range' variation offers a 0-60 time of just 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The 1,020-hp 'Plaid' brings performance to the next level with a neck-snapping 0-60 times of only 2.5 seconds, which means that this seven-passenger SUV is quicker to 60 than most supercar offerings. The top speed of the Plaid is 163 mph.

The Model X's handling is sublime as well. With most of the vehicle's weight in the passenger compartment floor, the center of gravity is low, and center, meaning the Model X is not top-heavy like many other SUVs. The 'Plaid' variation further improves handling with a revised performance air suspension set up, adaptive dampers, and larger brakes. The 'Plaid' also comes with special Michelin Sport tires explicitly designed for application on the Model X Plaid.

Related: 2021 Tesla Model S: Costs, Facts, And Figures

2021 Tesla Model X Features, Interior, And Technology

wp3028163-tesla-model-x-wallpapers
Via: Tesla

The 2021 Tesla Model X is one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road. With it comes a host of unique features and party tricks. Perhaps, the most stunning of which is its patented falcon-wing doors. The rear doors make entry into the rear cabin supremely easy. Access to the third row is also made simple. The doors themselves are different from a standard gull-wing door due to the addition of a second pivot point above the rear glass. That pivot point allows the falcon wing doors to open in extremely tight parking spots. Sensors at the base and sides of the electrically actuated doors stop the motion if it detects that it will hit something. At the rear of the Model X, an adaptive spoiler raises electrically when the SUV reaches highway speeds to increase stability further.

2021 Tesla Model X updated interior
Tesla

The inside of the Model X is just as compelling as the fully refreshed interior exterior. The new yoke style steering wheel is perhaps the most controversial point; no standard styled steering wheel is offered. Despite wariness on day-to-day useability, the yoke wheel does provide a clear view of the car's large 12.3 inch driver display. Consumers will also note the lack of stalks on the steering column. Both the turn signal actuation, and automatic wiper on/off are located on the yoke.

The massive 17-inch HD center screen is the finest in the automotive industry. Within the surprisingly simple user interface consumers can control every aspect of the car. All of the doors, frunk, and rear hatch can be open and closed from within. The hidden air vents can be positioned from here, you can even change what your horn sounds like and not just in pitch. Consumers can configure the horn to emit any sound they want, whether it be their favorite song or even a recording of themselves.

Consumers can sit back and relax while watching Netflix on a charging stop, though it wont take long. An 80% charge at one of Teslas now 25,000 Superchargers can be reached in a brief 15 minutes. Meaning just enough on road trips to use the restroom and grab a snack. Rear seat passenger suffer gladly with a now standard 8-inch rear screen. Passengers can use it to play games or stream video.

Tesla Autopilot Radar Graphic
Via: Tesla

Many things make Tesla unique, but none more than autopilot. For years the system was limited to highway use after pending years of regulator approval. But now, as of September 2021, the first Teslas are operating on streets fully autonomously. Eager buyers are now receiving updates via over-the-air software that give their cars the full capabilities they paid for some years ago. With the complete autopilot package (a $10,000 option), the Model X can autonomously navigate city streets, stop at red lights, change lanes, and do almost anything an attentive driver would do.

Despite the scrutiny, Tesla data shows and maintains that the system is on average nine times safer than a human driver. The system also includes smart summon, meaning consumers via Teslas phone app can have their car pick them up from the front of their place of work or at the entrance to their favorite shopping center. The Model X can also locate an empty parking space and park itself in standard and parallel spots.

Related: Watch A Tesla Model S Drag Race A Formula 1 Racecar

2021 Tesla Model X Pricing

Tesla Model X
Via: Tesla

Cutting-edge technology means that the 2021 Tesla Model X comes at a premium. The base Model X 'Long Range' has a starting price of $99,990, while the base 'Plaid' starts at $119,990. Adding options such as autopilot, premium wheels, premium paint, and a premium interior means fully loaded the Model X crests $140,000. This doesn't seem to be swaying consumers; however, even with Tesla Fremont, California, factory operating at max capacity, orders placed today will not be filled for several months. Orders placed in September 2021 are not predicted to be filled until April 2022. Overall, the 2021 Tesla Model X is an incredible SUV, and there is a reason that it is so revered.