Model S and Model X electric vehicles. For both, the new versions replace the Performance versions, which are no longer available to order, but both gain dramatically improved performance figures. Both lines are also now sporting updated interiors.
Launched in 2012 and the longest-selling of any of Tesla's current models, the Model S is described by Tesla as "the highest performing sedan ever built." The Model X mid-size luxury crossover was launched three years later in 2015 also with a focus on performance but, as you might expect for a crossover, also on utility. Both are aimed at luxury markets, with the Model S starting at $72,990 and the Model X at $83,190 with current environmental savings factored in by Tesla. Neither of those 'Long Range' versions have performance to be sniffed at. The Model S will accelerate from 0-60 mph 3.1 seconds, reach a top speed of 155 mph, and give 412 miles between charges, while the Model X will do 3.8 seconds, also 155 mph, and 360 miles.
The new Plaid variants of the two vehicles, though, knock those figures into a cocked hat in of acceleration and top speed. The Model S Plaid will hit 60 mph from a standstill in 1.99 seconds — over a second shorter — and max out at 200 mph, while the Model X Plaid knocks even more off its 0-60 mph acceleration time at 2.5 seconds before topping out at 163 mph. By any measure for production cars — family production cars at that — these are seat-pinning acceleration figures and dizzying top speeds. Which to punt for, in contrast, comes down to much the same set of mundane practicalities as with any car.
Choosing Between Tesla's Model S & X Plaid Variants
The simplest distinction is that for those who need more space for a family or an active lifestyle, the Model X is likely to be the better option. It can seat up to seven people and, Tesla claims, has "the most storage space and towing capacity of any electric SUV." If space isn't such an issue but speed and range are more important, such as for those who drive a lot for work, the Model S is likely the better call. Indeed, whereas the Model X only has the one Plaid variant, the Model S also has a Plaid+ variant that, most significantly, boosts the range from 390 miles to over 520 miles. It's also $20,000 more expensive than the Plaid version.
It should be said that for those with smaller families, the Model S is as suitable as it's ever been. Both the full Model S and Model X lines were given updated interiors along with the launch of the Plaid versions, with a display now added in the rear of the cabin on which back-seat engers can watch movies and TV shows or play games on the in-car Tesla Arcade gaming console. There's also now a 22-speaker, 960-watt, active noise canceling audio system, multi-device music and media Bluetooth compatibility, and a web browser and music streaming integration with the optional Connectivity package. The Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid are cutting edge both inside and out, with any decision between them coming down mainly to fine-margin lifestyle differences.