Tesla has officially unveiled updated versions of its premium electric vehicles, the Model S and Model X, for the U.S. market. The latest refresh brings significant upgrades to both vehicles, including new exterior styling, enhanced ride quality, additional tech features, and the introduction of two new paint options. The updates also come with a $5,000 price increase across all trims.
So far there have been no updates to the Canadian configurator and the “legacy” Model S/X are still only available north of the border.
New Looks and Colour Options
Both the Model S and Model X now come with updated exteriors styling that includes new front and rear bumpers (Model S only), new aerodynamic wheels, and fresh paint options.
Customers can now choose from Frost Blue Metallic (US$2,500) or Diamond Black (US$1,500).
The updates also bring all-new wheels designs. The Model S now includes 19″ Magnetite Wheels as standard, with optional 21″ Velarium Wheels for US$4,500. Meanwhile, the Model X gets 20″ Perihelix Wheels as standard and 22″ Machina Wheels for an additional US$5,500.
Performance and Comfort Upgrades
Tesla has introduced a host of mechanical and comfort-related enhancements with this update. Both models now feature:
- Improved suspension with new bushings for a smoother ride.
- Better cabin insulation with less wind and road noise.
- Enhanced Active Noise Cancellation to further refine the driving experience.
In terms of visibility and safety, both vehicles now include a front bumper camera with a washer, joining the Model Y and Cybertruck as the other Tesla vehicles with a front bumper camera.
Additionally, Tesla has now made the yoke steering wheel only available on the Plaid variants as a US$1,000 option.
Enhanced Interior Experience
Tesla has revamped the interior lighting experience with dynamic ambient lighting that now animates upon entry, giving a more luxurious and futuristic feel. LED footwell and door pocket lighting is now customizable across a full spectrum of colours, adding further personalization.
More Space in Model X
Tesla has also redesigned the Model X interior to offer more space for third-row passengers and cargo, a notable improvement for families or those needing added versatility.
With these updates, Tesla aims to keep the Model S and Model X competitive in the luxury EV space, blending performance, efficiency, and innovation into a more refined package. Deliveries of the refreshed models are expected to begin immediately across the U.S.
Pricing
Here are the new base prices for the Model S and Model X in the U.S. Each variant is US$5,000 more than its predecessor.
- Model S Long Range: $84,990
- Model S Plaid: $99,990
- Model X Long Range: $89,990
- Model X Plaid: $104,990
What’s Missing?
Many Tesla fans were hoping for a more substantial update to the Model S and Model X, both of which have seen lagging sales in recent quarters. Among the list of upgrades that some were expecting, but are missing, include improved range and performance, steer-by-wire, 48V/800V architecture, a more substantial design update, Hardware 5 (AI5), and other features that would make the vehicles live up to their luxury reputation.
One item that is missing that almost everyone was expecting is the turn signal stalk. Tesla brought this element back in the new Model Y, saying it returned after customer feedback showed the turn signal buttons on the steering wheel were not ideal.
