2019 Tesla Model X Review: Performance, Design, and Features

Introduction

While plug-in hybrids were a common sight in the world market, fully-electric ones were almost non-existent. Back then, which is less than a decade ago, electric vehicles (or EVs) weren’t very popular. Almost none of them were exciting enough, plus their range was quite poor. However, when Tesla entered the market with the Model S in 2012, all of that began to change rather quickly. And it happened again in 2015, which is when the Tesla Model X hit the streets. Unlike its sedan sibling on which it’s based, the Model X was designed as an SUV.

Market Presence

With the raging success of the Model S, the Model X soon took flight, and orders came pouring in. Despite many delays and several technical bugs that plagued the Model X, today, it’s one of the most in-demand EVs around. In fact, in Dubai, the Model X is quite a common sight as it’s also used extensively by Uber. As for its rivals, the Tesla Model X can be paired against the Audi Q7 or Range Rover Sport.

Exterior Design

Where the Model S looks pleasing and well-proportioned, the Tesla Model X isn’t quite that beautiful. Its bulky and rounded shape means it looks more like a minivan rather than an SUV. The front of the Model X is characterized by:

• Steeply-raked windscreen
• Vast sloping hood
• Stylish LED headlamps with Tesla-special LED DRLs
• Narrow slit up front with the brand logo
• Chunky bumper with a centrally-placed air dam and position lights along the sides

The Model X’s bulbous and rounded side silhouette highlights its low-drag profile. Additional features include:

• Plastic body cladding
• Flush door handles
• Turbine-design 20-inch alloy wheels
• Sleek wing mirrors
• Fascinating “falcon doors”

The chubby rear end houses:

• Massive tailgate
• Active rear wing
• Trendy 3D-styled LED taillights
• Air-diffuser integrated beefy bumper

The Tesla Model X measures:

• Length: 5.037 meters
• Width: 2.271 meters
• Height: 1.676 meters
• Wheelbase: 2.964 meters
• Cargo capacity (with seats folded down): 2,180 liters

Interior Features

As with the Model S, the primary theme inside the Tesla Model X is one of minimalism and clean design. This is clearly evident by the lack of numerous buttons, switches, and dials. The Model X’s interior is also a technological tour de force, featuring:

• Massive 17-inch high-definition touch-display in the dash
• Fully-customizable digital instrument console display
• Ample space in all rows, except for the third row

Getting in and out is easy, and the seats are fairly comfortable. However, the overall build quality and fit & finish aren’t that great, though far from terrible. The Model X comes equipped with:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Automatic climate control
• Power tailgate
• Google Maps navigation
• All-round parking sensors and cameras
• Internet connectivity
• Leather upholstery
• And more

Its safety catalogue includes:

• 8 airbags
• Rollover stability & traction control
• Collision detection
• And others

Engine and Performance

The 2.5-ton Tesla Model X P100D uses dual electric motors with a combined output of over 700 hp and 1,070 Nm of torque. With the advantage of all-wheel drive and Tesla’s “Ludicrous Mode” launch control, the Model X can achieve:

• 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds
• Top speed of 250 km/h
• Maximum range of 542 km (with performance package)

Verdict

The 2019 Tesla Model X costs between AED 349,125 and AED 602,070 for the 75D and P100D, respectively. Meanwhile, insurance starts from AED 5,442 for the base trim.