March 01, 2023

Tesla Model X has everyone impressed, even us

The Tesla Model X has already won awards and accolades. Media coverage has been quite impressive thus far. Even a Wall Street Analyst took the time to test drive the Model X and came away thrilled about the car. Most recently, those in the media covering tech, finance, and yes... cars, have all praised the Tesla Model X. And, I recently got a chance to spend some time with the car. I'll get to that in a minute. But first, let's see what's being said about the Tesla Model X in these disparate spheres of influence.

Source: Tesla Motors

The folks at Ars Technica admitted, "This could be the best SUV we've driven... In Ludicrous mode, the Model X is McLaren F1-quick—floor it leaving a toll booth and you'll hit 60mph in just 3.2 seconds. Would a conventional SUV with this much power (762hp/568kW) be anywhere near as usable? We doubt it. A Tesla customer at the [test drive] event likened the experience to piloting a shuttle pod in Star Trek—it certainly feels unlike any 'regular' SUV we've driven to date."

Source: Ars Technica (photo: Jonathan Gitlin)

According to financial outlet, Motley Fool, writer Daniel Sparks says, "I personally think it's a game-changer... With Tesla set to unveil its lower-cost Model 3 on March 31, and begin delivering the vehicle in late 2017, the flashy SUV serves as somewhat of a marketing ambassador for the company's brand -- a halo product. Further, with Tesla anticipating Model X sales will grow to rival Model S sales, gross profit generated from the Model X sales will play a key role in helping fund the development and production-ramp of Tesla's upcoming Model 3." It surely seems, based on Wall Street's reaction, that the Model X will amplify and invigorate the brand as the Tesla Model 3 launch fast-approaches.

Source: Motley Fool

Motor Trend magazine calls the Tesla Model X, "the quickest SUV we've ever tested... We don’t just mean it’s the quickest accelerating electric SUV ever built — it’s the quickest SUV we’ve ever tested. Period." As proof, Motor Trend also published this stunning display of Tesla Model X power on its Instagram feed. Check this out: Alfa Romeo 4C racing an Alfa Romeo 4C (while being towed by a Tesla Model X)...

What's faster? An @AlfaRomeo #4C or an @AlfaRomeo #4C... being towed by a @teslamotors #ModelX #P90D #ludicrous? @jasoncammisa

A video posted by Earth's Automotive Authority (@motortrend) on Mar 18, 2016 at 6:36pm PDT

So what do I (personally) think? Well... I was blown away. We've already published many in-depth reviews of the Tesla Model X, so instead -- I wanted to focus on a few of the subtle (and not-so-subtle) design details. Here's a quick video to explain...

I was impressed with the fit and finish of the interior and the elevated elegance (as seen in the details) of the exterior. To me, the new Model X is a sign that Tesla is becoming more sophisticated in their overall design aesthetic. Indeed, this is a good sign of things to come with the Tesla Model 3. In closing, check out a few final pix below...

Bravo Tesla! You've designed a beautiful, breakthrough SUV to follow up the amazing Model S. And, of course, last... we shouldn't forget to mention this ultra-cool detail...