Tesla made big news this week with the launch of its redesigned Model S sedan but slipped in some news about its Model X SUV as well.
Tesla doesn’t release vehicles in model years, like traditional automakers. Instead, it updates features and trim levels on an irregular schedule. This update is a new top-of-the-line trim level for the X, but we expect to see some of its features migrate down the lineup over the next few months. The Plaid edition takes the place of the earlier Performance trim.
On the outside, the Plaid gets a reshaped front fascia and rear diffuser. But the real redesign comes inside. The steering wheel has been replaced with a rectangular yoke, a bit like those found in Formula 1 race cars. The central touchscreen is now a 17-inch entertainment center with 10 teraflops of processing power, capable of running complex video games.
The Model X Plaid carries three motors, putting out an impressive 1,020 horsepower. Carbon-sleeved brake rotors promise shorter stopping distances (though we don’t know the numbers yet, as no one outside Tesla has driven the car yet). Torque vectoring should make the handling crisp.
Tesla says the X Plaid will jump from to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds (significantly quicker than the low-end Model X Long Range, at 3.8 seconds), and has a top speed of 163 mph. It has a range of 341 miles.
The Model X Plaid starts at $119,990, with deliveries slated to begin in April.
