Tesla Model X Performance

Overview

The 2020 Tesla Model X Performance was the apex predator of electric SUVs, blending seven-seat practicality with truly ludicrous acceleration. Known for its distinctive Falcon Wing doors and minimalist tech-forward cabin, this all-wheel-drive beast commanded attention. As a discontinued model, it's now a fascinating proposition on the used market, with the provided data indicating an estimated pre-owned price around $30,997 in the US. It offered a unique mix of family hauling capability and supercar-scaring speed, making it a standout in the premium EV segment.

What's New for 2020?

For the 2020 model year, the Model X Performance, an evolution of the P100D, received Tesla's "Raven" adaptive air suspension. This upgrade significantly enhanced both ride comfort and handling prowess, making the SUV feel more composed and agile. It also incorporated a more efficient permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motor at the front, similar to the Model 3, contributing to improved range and more consistent power delivery. The electrifying "Cheetah Stance" launch mode, which lowered the front for optimal take-offs, was another key addition for maximum attack.

Design & Exterior

The 2020 Tesla Model X Performance cuts a striking figure with its sleek, aerodynamic silhouette, but the real showstoppers are its iconic Falcon Wing rear doors. These dramatic portals ensure you always make an entrance. The front features a clean, grille-less design, and the panoramic glass windshield extends overhead for an airy cabin feel. Key dimensions are a commanding length of 198.9 inches, a width of 78.7 inches (excluding mirrors), and a height of 66.3 inches. Performance-specific badging subtly hints at its capabilities.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Model X Performance embraces Tesla's signature minimalist aesthetic, dominated by a colossal 17-inch central touchscreen that controls nearly all vehicle functions. It offers flexible seating for five, six, or seven passengers depending on configuration. Material quality is good, though the focus is clearly on tech. Cargo space is impressive: 12.6 cubic feet in the rear trunk, expanding to a massive 85.8 cubic feet with seats folded, plus a handy 6.6 cubic feet frunk. Tesla's proprietary infotainment is feature-rich but lacks Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Performance & Driving Experience

Strap in, because the Model X Performance is ferociously quick, launching from 0-60 mph in a mind-boggling 2.6 seconds. This neck-snapping acceleration comes courtesy of its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system – a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) at the front and an AC Induction Motor (IM) at the rear – delivering a combined 580 kW and a colossal 841 lb-ft of torque. The Raven adaptive air suspension provides a surprisingly good balance of agile handling for its size and a comfortable ride. Regenerative braking is strong, enabling smooth one-pedal driving.

Range, Battery & Charging

The Model X Performance is equipped with a substantial 95 kWh usable battery pack, providing a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of approximately 273 miles. Its energy efficiency is rated at 2.87 mi/kWh. For home charging, the standard 11.5 kW on-board AC charger can replenish the battery overnight. When out and about, it uses the Tesla (NACS) charge port and can leverage Tesla's Supercharger network at speeds up to 200 kW for rapid DC fast charging, adding significant range in minutes. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) was not a feature on this model.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is paramount in the Model X Performance, reflected in its 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Standard Autopilot provides essential driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Many examples on the used market may feature the optional Enhanced Autopilot or the Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability package, which added more advanced features like Navigate on Autopilot, auto lane change, autopark, and Summon. These systems, while requiring constant driver attention, were at the cutting edge of driver-assistance technology for their time.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Originally, the 2020 Model X Performance came with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic new vehicle limited warranty. More importantly for an EV, the battery and drive unit were covered for 8 years or 150,000 miles, whichever came first, with a guarantee of at least 70% battery capacity retention. Tesla typically doesn't offer complimentary scheduled maintenance. While EVs generally require less maintenance than combustion engine cars due to fewer moving parts, potential repair costs for its advanced systems like the air suspension or Falcon Wing doors are worth considering on the used market.