The Tesla Model S and Model X are beginning to show signs of a long-anticipated refresh, with new test vehicles spotted in California sporting a handful of design and tech changes. Just days after a camouflaged Model S was seen lapping the Nürburgring in Germany, some updated vehicles were caught in the open by frequent Tesla spotter, The Kilowatts (@klwtts), this time without any camouflage.
Model S Changes
The uncovered Model S reveals a reworked front bumper and grill insert, now featuring a newly integrated front-facing camera like the new Model Y. At the rear, a new diffuser adds a sportier touch to the otherwise familiar design. Inside, the addition of a new ambient lighting strip appears to have been covered up with duct tape, again matching changes made to the Model 3 and Model Y.
Model X Changes
A Model X prototype was also spotted, carrying many of the same changes. The front bumper camera makes an appearance here as well, joined by newly designed wheels and the same interior ambient lighting.
The Model X may also be the first to debut a brand-new exterior paint option, described by The Kilowatts as “more luxurious and maybe a little more pastel” than Glacier Blue.
While fans are excited to see Tesla’s luxury models receiving attention, some have expressed disappointment at the relatively minor nature of the visible updates. Many were hoping for deeper technical improvements, including Tesla’s rumored 48-volt electrical architecture, steer-by-wire steering system, HW5/AI5 computer, and bi-directional charging (PowerShare). These may still be part of the update, but if they are missing, many will be disappointed at only the subtle interior and exterior design updates.
These subtle changes align closely with recent comments made by Tesla VP of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy, who teased a “late 2025” refresh for both vehicles during a podcast interview earlier this year. Moravy offered little in the way of specifics, but emphasized that the Model S and Model X would be getting “some love,” reaffirming Tesla’s commitment to its low-volume, high-impact vehicles.
Earlier this week, a camouflaged Model S was seen undergoing high-speed testing at the Nürburgring, hinting at the very changes now visible in California. The test vehicle featured camo-covered front and rear sections to conceal the new front bumper and rear diffuser. That prototype also sported new 21-inch wheels that resemble those found on the new Model 3 Performance, but were absent from today’s sightings.
With prototypes now testing in multiple locations, Tesla appears to be on track for an official launch of the refreshed Model S and Model X sometime in late 2025, as previously indicated by Moravy.
