2024 Tesla Model X

The Tesla Model X was the EV brand’s first SUV when it came out in 2015, and it continues to be a measuring stick for high-end electric luxury SUVs. It’s more than just an SUV version of the Model S sedan. It has many of the virtues of the Model S, like its excellent powertrain options and cutting-edge tech, but it also has available 3-row seating and industry-exclusive Falcon Wing rear doors. Its maximum range of 335 miles beats most rivals like the Mercedes-EQ EQS SUV and Audi Q8 e-tron, and the Plaid model’s 2.5-second 0-60 mph time makes the Model X a practical SUV with supercar-like acceleration. The Model X comes with a few of the hangups of the Tesla brand, like inconsistent build quality and some trouble with getting it serviced. However, according to the majority of our consumer reviews, the pros vastly outweigh the cons.

Tesla doesn’t really do model years, and there are no significant changes for the Model X in 2024. Of note, the Model X recently returned to a regular steering wheel as standard, and the controversial yoke is a $1,000 option.

The 2024 Tesla Model X starts at $79,990. That’s for the base dual-motor model. The high-performance Plaid model begins at $94,990. A few options that can add to the price tag include 22-inch wheels ($5,500), 3-row seating ($3,500 for seven seats, $6,500 for six seats), Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000), and Full Self-Driving Capability ($12,000). Thanks in part to a starting sticker price that ekes in under the $80,000 limit for SUVs, as we write this, a base Model X with no options can qualify for a $7,500 federal incentive.

These are the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) and do not include the $1,390 destination charge/delivery fee.

A few of the closest rivals of the Tesla Model X include the Audi Q8 e-tron ($74.4K), Mercedes-EQ EQS SUV ($104,400), and BMW iX ($87,100). There’s also the more family-oriented Volvo EX90 on the way ($76.6k) with standard 3-row seating.

As for the other startup EV brands, there’s the Rivian R1S ($78K) and the upcoming Lucid Gravity, which promises 440 miles of range, over 800 horsepower, and seating for up to seven. We expect pricing for the Gravity to be similar to that of the Model X.

If this all seems a bit ridiculous, the smaller and more affordable Tesla Model Y is undoubtedly capable and starts at about $44K.

Before buying a new Model X luxury electric SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to find out what you should really be paying. Model X resale values are exceptional. Recouping more money when you sell a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on your next one.

The popular dual-motor powertrain in the base trim of the Tesla Model X delivers satisfying acceleration with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds. Instant torque is one of our favorite things about electric motors. The tri-motor powertrain in the stunning Plaid model makes the Model X the quickest production SUV on the market with a genuinely supercar-like 2.5-second 0-60 mph time. Having too much fun in the Model X will drain the battery faster, but you get more than 300 miles on a full charge in both trims.

The Model X has the dynamic chops to cope with such power. An adaptive suspension is standard, and the floor-mounted battery means an advantageously low center of gravity. All-wheel drive is also standard, while the steering is pleasingly precise.

That smooth and comfy adaptive suspension and hushed cabin, thanks to the quiet electric motors, contribute to making this electric luxury SUV a pleasant family vehicle. Such a fast and powerful SUV with available 3-row seating, a 5,000-pound tow rating, and low fuel costs make the Model X a veritable Swiss army knife of a do-it-all vehicle.

Range and Charging

Generally speaking, the Model X goes farther and charges faster than most of the competition. In that regard, the Model X and Rivian R1S are the standouts. The dual-motor Tesla Model X goes up to 335 miles on a full charge, and the tri-motor Plaid model has a 326-mile range. The max range ratings of Tesla’s closest rivals from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi are right around the 300-mile mark.

The one rival that beats the Model X in maximum range is the Rivian R1S, which claims a 400-mile range when equipped with the dual-motor powertrain and the Max Pack battery. The Lucid Gravity isn’t out yet, but Lucid claims it will achieve a range of over 440 miles.

At a Tesla Supercharger or other DC fast charging station with a 250-kilowatt charger, the Model X can replenish 80% of its charge in as little as 30-40 minutes. Since all of its closest rivals also have DC fast charging capabilities, they have charge times similar to the Tesla if you just look at the time and percentage numbers. But keep in mind the Model X has an above-average range, which means it tends to get more miles worth of juice per hour of charging than its lower-range rivals.

With over 50,000 charging stations globally, the well-established Tesla Supercharger network of fast charging stations goes a long way in easing range anxiety.

In standard form, the 2024 Model X electric SUV is a 5-seater. A third row for two can be added to either a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row or a 3-person bench. We recommend the captain’s chairs as long as six seats are sufficient for your needs. They make the second row more comfortable and the third row easier to access.

Big infotainment touchscreens are now the norm, and Tesla should be given credit (or blame) for starting that trend. The one in the Model X measures 17 inches on the diagonal and is the access point for many functions, although there’s a notable absence of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. We like that the driver has a proper instrument cluster — which is not always the case in Tesla vehicles.

We’re also glad Tesla has made a regular, round steering wheel standard again in the Model X. The controversial, airplane-like steering yoke is now a $1,000 option. It’s not for everyone, but it’s distinctly Tesla.

We like the double-wide wireless charging pad in the center console, heated seats (not just the fronts), and things like vegan-friendly simulated leather upholstery. However, our readers are not always impressed by how everything has been put together. All Tesla models have been subject to inconsistent build quality, and some of our consumer reviews confirm that the Model X is no exception. One advantage of rivals from more established luxury marques is the consistently excellent interior quality that matches their price tags.

Beneath that vast glass roof, occupant space is ample. The legroom in the second row is 38.7 inches or 39.8 with the 6-seat arrangement. The third row could be more adult-friendly, but it’s fine for younger family members who still have some growing to do.

Maximum cargo space in cubic feet goes from the high 80s to the low 90s, depending on how many seats are fitted. There’s also an appreciable 6.5 cubic feet of storage area under the hood.

Many EVs use aerodynamics in their body design to maximize efficiency, often resulting in egg-shaped SUVs. The Tesla Model X has a bit of this going on, but it has some sharp body lines to keep things interesting, and the retractable spoiler is a nice touch. The body of the Model X has been a sore spot for some owners in terms of the Tesla’s spotty build quality. Uneven panel gaps and paint flaws aren’t uncommon, which can be frustrating for a luxury vehicle in this price range.

Up to 335 miles of range
The impressive range of the Tesla Model X beats its rivals from Mercedes, BMW, and Audi. It helps bring practicality to this high-performance luxury SUV.

17-inch touchscreen
A huge touchscreen is the centerpiece of the Model S interior. It controls almost every function of the car and can even do streaming and gaming while waiting at a charging station.

Semi-autonomous driving tech
The standard Autopilot system bundles increasingly common features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Enhanced Autopilot adds Navigate on Autopilot, automatic lane-changing, automated parking, and Smart Summon. Finally, Full Self-Driving Capability adds Autosteer on city streets and automatic stop-and-go at traffic lights and stop signs.

Falcon Wing doors
The unique Falcon Wing rear doors on the Model X have multiple hinges so that they can open up like “gull-wing” doors, and they’re good about not hitting cars next to you or the walls in your garage (but be mindful of low ceilings).

Supercharger network
Tesla has its global network of fast-charging stations, so road trips are a distinct possibility. The company’s vehicles can also be plugged into other chargers via an adapter.

Available 3-row seating
An optional third row of seats can bring the seating capacity up to seven, and it opens up the options of second-row captain’s chairs, making the second row more comfortable and the third row more accessible.

Both versions of the Tesla Model X use a 100-kilowatt-hour battery. The motors use the energy in that battery very efficiently, achieving a 102 combined MPGe rating for the dual-motor model and 98 MPGe with the Plaid model. Tesla’s rivals from Rivian, Mercedes, BMW, and Audi all get less than 90 MPGe. What that means, in practice, is that the Tesla is a bit easier on your electric bill. It has the lowest estimated fuel costs in its class but could be surpassed by the Lucid Gravity when it gets an official EPA efficiency rating.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

Tesla’s basic new-car warranty lasts four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This is a typical arrangement among luxury cars. The battery in the Model X is covered for eight years or 150,000 miles. Based on what we read and hear from owners, experiences with the reliability and maintenance costs of Tesla models have been a mixed bag. Owners have also reported long wait times at service centers and poor parts availability. If you live in an area with many Tesla cars on the road but only a few service stations, you could encounter some trouble when your Model X needs service.

Safety

The Telsa Model X hasn’t been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) since 2021, but it received a 5-Star overall safety rating back then.