For those who thought the Tesla Model S wasn’t quite big or expensive enough – do not fear – there is a solution. The new Model X.
Described by Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, as a car that will “blow you away”, the new Model X is the carmaker’s stab at making an SUV. The Model S has taken the automotive world by storm. But can Tesla do the same with its new Model X SUV?
Well, we certainly hope so, as we think the idea of driving a ludicrously fast, all-electric SUV is nothing short of tantalising. So, here are seven reasons why we are excited about the new Tesla Model X.
It’s fast!
You may not have heard the expression ‘ludicrously fast’ very often, but with regards to the Model X, it is very appropriate.
Let start by talking about its ‘slowest’ speed. If you go for the standard model then you will have to settle for a zero to 60mph sprint time of 3.8 seconds. However, go for the Ludicrous Speed Upgrade and you can achieve that sprint time in just 3.2 seconds. An SUV going that fast will certainly feel ludicrous.
This power comes from a 256bhp motor in the front and a 496bhp motor in the rear, enabling the Model X to reach a top speed of 155mph.
It’s electric!
Although Tesla are renowned for performance, the electric aspect is of course a major selling point.
So, as well as the above performance, you get zero emissions to boot, thanks to its 90 kWh battery power. With zero emissions comes a host of benefits, such as zero road tax and, if you just so happen to get it as a company car (lucky you) then you will benefit from a low five per cent BIK tax rating.
Not only is the Model X zero-emitting, but it also boasts a range of 250 miles off a single charge – which is enough for a decent slog up or down the country.
It has all-wheel drive!
We haven’t driven the Model X yet so we don’t know how capable it will be off-road, but we do know that the AWD system in the Model S makes it more capable when it comes to soft road performance.
With All-Wheel Drive comes added traction, especially when it comes to whipping a car into bends.
As the Model X has an SUV character, then it may very well be capable of venturing odd-road. It could very well challenge the likes of the Volkswagen Touareg and Range Rover.
It’s got wings!
Never mind Red Bull, Tesla gives you wings – Falcon wings to be exact.
Yes, just like an exotic sports car, the Model X has gullwing-style doors, giving you some added class. Although you may assume that these doors will limit entry and exit practicality, Tesla actually claims that all you need is a foot either side of the car to gain full access. The doors can also automatically adjust to ensure that they do not hit a garage roof or wall in a car park.
As well as looking awesome, these doors actually optimise head space when getting in and out of the car and allow for parents to easily attend to their children without ducking down. This brings us on to our next point…
It’s practical
The Model X offers two different seating configurations: six or seven.
If you go for the six-seat configuration then you get three rows of two seats. Not only does this give you the ability to seat six, but the middle row of seats has a space in the middle to allow passengers to easily navigate the car if needed - or reach to the back seats and attend to any kids. Go for the seven-seat configuration and you get a two, three two layout.
The third row of seats can also be folded flat to allow for extra cargo space and the second row can be folded forward – and much like an MPV, there is storage space under the seats as well.
It’s got a massive windshield
This may only seem like a small thing, but once you drive a car with a panoramic windshield you will wonder how you drove without it.
Adding to its luxury, futuristic feel, the Model X’s panoramic windshield is the largest in production, according to Tesla.
It also has solar tinting to ensure you don’t get dazzled by the sun.
It’s a Tesla!
We can talk about the kudos of driving a BMW or Mercedes till the cows come home, but there is just something special about driving a Tesla. Ever wanted to feel like Tony Stark rolling up to work? Get a Tesla.
Do you want to drive something that looks and feels like a snippet of the future? Get a Tesla.
Prices are yet to be confirmed for the new Tesla Model X, but they are estimated to start from around £100,000.
