Tesla Model X 2022: refreshed interior with fire-breathing Plaid added to the range

The Tesla Model X was one of the first, and many would argue best, fully-electric large SUVs available on the market for some time. 

But as legacy manufacturers begin to roll out more EV rivals such as the seven-seat Mercedes-Benz EQB midsize SUV and Volkswagen ID8 large SUV buyers will soon have more and possibly far cheaper options to choose from.

With this in mind, Tesla has given the Model X a notable update that modernises the SUV, which will be offered in either Long Range or high-performance Plaid specification here in Australia. 

What’s inside the Model X?

While the exterior of the Model X remains largely the same the interior has been given a makeover, copying over many of the changes recently announced for its Model S sibling.

These include the infamous ‘Yoke’ steering wheel but also the addition of a second screen in front of the driver in place of the old style single large tablet in the centre.

The centre tablet has morphed from a large portrait screen to a landscape 17-inch unit that is capable of playing video games which passengers can interact with via a bluetooth controller.

Those in the backseat can also access this feature via a secondary screen mounted in the back of the front centre armrest, with sound played through the 22-speaker, 960-watt audio system with active noise canceling.

Buyers can select a choice of five, six or seven seats; with the cabin offering up to 2,577 liters of storage space if you include the front storage area under the bonnet.

Breaking down the performance

Available in a choice of two grades, the entry-level Long Range offers exactly that while the Plaid is a more high performance option. Both won’t be here until at least the end of 2022, according to Tesla.

The Model X Long Range starts at $180,871 (before on-roads) and uses a dual motor setup, with one mounted on the front and rear axle, producing 500kW of power in total, which is quick enough to get to 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds according to Tesla.

Those wanting a bit more grunt can opt for the Model X Plaid ($205,571 before on-roads) that adds an additional motor to the rear wheels producing a ballistic total output of 761kW.

Tesla claims the seven-seat SUV can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 2.6 seconds, however unlike the Long Range, this figure is counted after subtracting a one foot rollout, so the time could be notably longer if tested under normal conditions.

The Model X Long Range can travel up to 580km and the Plaid a bit less 547km according to the more conservative WLTP standard, with both capable of recharging at an impressive rate of up to 250kW.

Importantly for an SUV, and rare for an electric vehicle, is the ability to tow. Tesla says the Model X in other grades can handle up to 2,268kg which is enough to pull a small caravan or boat.

Buyers who want the full Tesla experience will need to purchase the $10,100 ‘Full Self Driving’ pack that is essentially an advanced form of adaptive cruise control with a twist.

It allows drivers to go about their business while providing limited inputs to the car in some situations and gain other handy features like the ability to summon the Model X from a car park. 

Buyers won’t be able to get their hands on the updated Model X until the end of 2022 but orders are open now for interested parties. 

Tesla Model X 2021: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• Long Range: $180,871
• Plaid: $205,571