2023 Tesla Model X Review, Specs, and Pricing

Overview

The 2023 Tesla Model X delivers the performance and prestige expected from the Tesla brand, but its appeal is waning in today’s competitive luxury electric SUV market. With new contenders like the BMW iX and Rivian R1S offering better value, the Model X faces stiff competition. Tesla offers three variants of the Model X: the dual-motor Standard Range with 670 horsepower and a 269-mile range, the Long Range model with an estimated 348-mile range, and the high-performance Plaid version, which boasts a staggering 1020 horsepower and a 333-mile range. While the Model X impresses with its rapid acceleration and solid driving range, its interior falls short of the luxurious experience expected at its price point, making it a tougher sell compared to more affordable and opulent rivals.

What has Changed for 2023?

For 2023, the Tesla Model X introduces a new key card, though the traditional car-shaped fob is still available as an optional add-on. A standard steering wheel is now offered at no additional cost, and existing owners can opt for a $700 retrofit. Tesla has also brought back the Standard Range model, featuring a more affordable price and a 269-mile driving range. Aside from these updates, the Model X remains largely unchanged for the new model year.

2023 Tesla Model X: EV Motor and Performance

The base 2023 Tesla Model X is equipped with two electric motors—one on each axle—providing all-wheel drive and impressive speed. Tesla claims a 0-to-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds for this setup, but in our testing, we achieved an even quicker 3.3-second run. The high-performance Plaid variant, featuring a 1020-horsepower, three-motor configuration, is said to hit 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, though we haven't yet confirmed this at our test track. When we tested the Model S Plaid, the sedan counterpart to the Model X, it reached 60 mph in a staggering 2.1 seconds. While the Model X offers decent handling, its standout feature remains the powerful acceleration provided by its electric motors.

2023 Tesla Model X: Battery Life, Charging, and Range

The 2023 Tesla Model X comes standard with a battery that provides an estimated 269-mile driving range. The Long Range model features an even larger battery, offering up to 348 miles per charge. However, opting for the high-performance Plaid model reduces the estimated range to 333 miles. Recharging is fast and convenient at Tesla's nationwide Supercharger network. For home charging, while it’s slower using a 240V or 120V connection, it's often more convenient for owners. To accommodate this, Tesla offers in-home charging equipment for purchase.

2023 Tesla Model X: Interior and Comfort

The 2023 Tesla Model X features a sleek, nearly buttonless interior design that’s quintessentially Tesla. The driver is presented with a digital gauge display and a distinctive yoke-style steering controller, which many find frustrating and difficult to adjust to. Fortunately, a regular steering wheel is available at no extra cost. One standout feature is the expansive windshield/glass roof that extends from the base of the hood up and over the front seats, offering an almost uninterrupted view of the road and sky. However, despite these high-tech elements, the Model X's cabin is underwhelming, especially considering its hefty price tag. Issues such as non-descript air vents, misaligned panels, and flat-backed seats with limited adjustability detract from the luxury experience expected in this price range.

2023 Tesla Model X: Connectivity

The 2023 Tesla Model X's interior is centered around a massive touchscreen infotainment system that dominates the dashboard, controlling nearly all of the vehicle's features and settings. Complementing this is a secondary digital display directly in front of the driver, serving as the gauge cluster. While Tesla's infotainment system is undeniably advanced, it lacks support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Passengers in the rear seats have access to their own small display, offering entertainment options and some control over the car's features.

2023 Tesla Model X: Pricing

The 2023 Tesla Model X is priced from $81,630 to $110,130, depending on the selected trim and options.

Which one to Purchase?

The Plaid model, equipped with three electric motors, promises blistering acceleration, but this performance comes at a steep price. Additionally, its 333-mile estimated driving range falls short of the less expensive Long Range model. To save money, we'd opt for the Long Range Model X, which offers an impressive 348-mile estimated range while still delivering excellent speed.

2023 Tesla Model X: Warranty

Tesla provides a robust warranty for the Model X, focusing on the powertrain and hybrid components. However, it doesn’t include the extensive bumper-to-bumper coverage or complimentary scheduled maintenance found with the Jaguar I-Pace.

• Limited Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain Warranty: 8 years, with no mileage limit

• Scheduled Maintenance: No complimentary scheduled maintenance included.

2023 Tesla Model X Specifications

Additional Features

Dimensions and Cargo Capacity