2026 Tesla Model X
7/10
C/D RATING
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MSRP
- Faster than it needs to be, impressive range, widespread Supercharger network makes for stress-free charging.
- Formerly groundbreaking design showing its age, falcon-wing doors still feel a bit contrived, inconsistent build quality.
- Ferociously quick yet still capable of delivering 300-plus miles of range, the Model X delivers the genuine Tesla experience in an SUV wrapper.
Specs
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EPA Est. Range
335–352 Miles
Seating
5–6 Seats
Powertrain
Electric, Gas
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Limited Warranty
4 Years/50,000 MilesBy Andrew Wendler
Overview
As the largest SUV in the current Tesla lineup, the Model X’s mission is clear: deliver the speed, range, and left-of-center design and tech choices that define the brand in a three-row SUV. That means a choice of two AWD powertrains, a futuristic shape with genuine gull-wing doors, and a heavy reliance on the touchscreen for most operational functions instead of traditional knobs and buttons. It’s also incredibly quick, with our test drivers knocking off the 60-mph sprint in 3.6 seconds. Less impressive is the interior fit and finish, which feels a little out of place in a vehicle that starts at over $90k. Groundbreaking when it arrived a decade ago, the Model X is still impressive, but it is beginning to show its age.
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What’s New for 2026?
Tesla says the 2026 Model X benefits from updated suspension bushings that provide improved ride quality. Tesla claims increased space for the third row and cites an uptick in the amount of sound-damping materials and the inclusion of active noise canceling as efforts to create a quieter cabin environment. A new exterior color dubbed Frost Blue joins the palette, and new dynamic ambient interior lighting activates on entry for a bit more welcoming sizzle. New wheel designs are said to be more aerodynamically efficient, and both the new adaptive headlights and a new camera installed in the front bumper aim to improve forward visibility.
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Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2026 Tesla Model X starts at $101.630 and goes up to $116.630 depending on the trim and options.Model X$101,630Plaid$116,6300$50k$100k$150k$200k
The Plaid model with its three electric motors is sure to deliver insane acceleration, but that added performance is mighty expensive. And its 335-mile estimated driving range isn’t as good as the less expensive All-Wheel Drive model’s estimate, so we’d save the cash. The Model X All-Wheel Drive offers up to 352 miles of estimated driving range and is still mighty quick.
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Getting Started with EVs
- EV Range: Everything You Need to Know
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- Your 2024 Guide to EV Tax Credits
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
The base Model X comes standard with two electric motors—one at the front axle and one at the rear—which enable all-wheel drive with a claimed total output of 670 horsepower. The 1020-hp Plaid high-performance model has a motor up front and two at the rear. The X’s handling is respectable, but it’s still a big and heavy SUV with the fun party trick of blistering acceleration generated by its electric motors.
0–60-MPH Times
The X’s base setup is plenty swift, hitting 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds at our test track. The tri-motor Plaid variant boasts a claimed 60-mph time of 2.5 seconds, but we haven’t verified its acceleration times at our test track yet. When we tested the Model S Plaid sedan—which is based on the same basic underpinnings as the Model X—it managed a viscera-compressing 2.1-second 60-mph time.
View Exterior PhotosMarc Urbano|Car and Driver
More on the Model X SUV
- Tested: 2026 Tesla Model X Still Wows
- Tesla Updates Model S, Model X, Raises Prices
- Tested: Teslas Show Unrealistic Range Estimates
Towing and Payload Capacity
While the Model X wouldn’t be in our top ten list of ideal towing vehicles, it is rated for up to 5000 pounds.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The base model comes with an EPA-estimated driving range of 352 miles. The faster Plaid model drops the estimated driving range to 335 miles. As to recharging, it’s quick via one of Tesla’s Superchargers, which are available across the country. In our highway range test, we managed 300 miles in the base Model X before needing to recharge. Charging at home via a 240-volt or 120-volt connection will be slower, but probably more convenient for owners, so Tesla offers in-home charging equipment for purchase.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
The EPA estimates that the base Model X is good for 110 MPGe city and 99 MPGe highway, while the Plaid earned ratings of 105 MPGe city and 94 MPGe highway. MPGe stands for miles per gallon of gas equivalent, an EPA metric that estimates PHEV and EV vehicle fuel efficiency. For more information about the Model X’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Love it or hate it, a stark and nearly buttonless interior design is classic Tesla. The driver faces a digital gauge display and a unique rectangular yoke-style steering controller instead of a conventional circular steering wheel; the yoke is often frustrating to use and difficult, if not impossible, to get used to. At least a regular steering wheel is available as a no-cost option. Also unique is the Model X’s combination windshield and glass roof that runs seamlessly from the base of the hood up and over the front-seat passengers for a nearly uninterrupted view of what’s ahead and what’s above. Despite these whiz-bang features, the Model X’s cabin leaves us wanting, especially considering its price approaches the six-figure barrier for the Plaid. The cabin has a nondescript look, the seats are relatively flat, and we’ve noticed poorly aligned panels and other build-quality issues.
View Interior PhotosMarc Urbano|Car and Driver
The Car and Driver Difference
- Our Comprehensive Car Testing Explained
- Why We Test: Every Number Tells a Story
- Why We Test EVs the Way We Do
Infotainment and Connectivity
A huge touchscreen infotainment system dominates the dashboard and controls nearly all of the Model X’s various features and settings. A secondary digital readout directly in front of the driver serves as the gauge cluster. Tesla’s infotainment system is certainly high-tech, but you won’t find Apple CarPlay or Android Auto capability in it. Rear-seat riders are treated to their own small display, which provides entertainment and some control over the car’s features.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Model X comes with Tesla’s Autopilot feature and can be optioned with Full Self-Driving. Tesla’s driver-assist modes employ several cameras to detect objects, people, and other vehicles, and use them to help steer, accelerate, and brake the Model X. But don’t be fooled by their names: these systems do not provide fully autonomous operation; the driver must remain in charge at all times. The Model X also offers a Summon feature that allows the user to park or retrieve the SUV from tight spots while standing outside. For more information about the Model X’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Tesla offers a comprehensive warranty package to protect the Model X’s powertrain and battery components, but lacks the lengthy bumper-to-bumper coverage and complimentary scheduled maintenance packages of some competitors.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers eight years and unlimited miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
