Tesla Model X Plaid

Overview

The 2025 Tesla Model X Plaid is the absolute pinnacle of electric SUV lunacy, blending family-hauling practicality with supercar-slaying performance. This ain't your average grocery-getter; the Plaid trim delivers truly mind-bending acceleration thanks to its tri-motor setup, all while rocking those iconic Falcon Wing doors. It’s a tech-lover's dream wrapped in a sleek, unmistakably Tesla package. For those who want it all – space, pace, and pioneering tech – the Model X Plaid stakes a strong claim, starting at $104,990 new in the US market.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Model X Plaid continues its reign as Tesla's flagship performance SUV, carrying forward its latest enhancements. Expect the cutting-edge Autopilot Hardware 4 suite for improved driver-assist capabilities and future potential. Inside, the updated interior with its swiveling main display, rear passenger screen, and the choice between a yoke or traditional steering wheel remains a key feature. While major overhauls aren't on the docket, Tesla’s continuous software updates ensure the Plaid stays fresh with new features and performance tweaks pushed over-the-air, keeping it at the bleeding edge.

Design & Exterior

The Model X Plaid’s exterior is pure Tesla: smooth, aerodynamic, and instantly recognizable, especially with those show-stopping Falcon Wing rear doors. It’s a big beast, measuring 199.1 inches long, 78.9 inches wide (mirrors aside), and 66.1 inches tall, giving it serious road presence. Plaid models get subtle badging to hint at the monster within, often rolling on impressive 20-inch Cyberstream wheels as standard, with optional 22-inch Turbine wheels for extra visual punch. The massive panoramic windshield offers an unrivaled view out, blending seamlessly into the roof.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Model X Plaid, and you're greeted by Tesla's signature minimalist cool, dominated by a massive 17-inch cinematic touchscreen that controls nearly everything. This six-seater offers a futuristic vibe with its optional yoke steering (a round wheel is also available) and a secondary screen for rear passengers. Cargo space is impressive: 14.8 cubic feet in the trunk, expanding to a cavernous 88 cubic feet with seats down, plus a handy 6.5 cubic foot frunk. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are absent, Tesla's native infotainment is snappy, feature-packed with streaming and gaming.

Performance & Driving Experience

This is where the Model X Plaid truly shreds. With a mind-boggling 760 kW and 752 lb-ft of torque from its tri-motor all-wheel-drive system (one PMSM up front, two at the rear), it catapults from 0-60 mph in a blistering 2.5 seconds. Top speed? A cool 163 mph. It’s not just straight-line shove; the Plaid handles impressively for a big SUV, though the ride can be on the firm side. Strong regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving, making stop-and-go traffic a breeze. It’s an absolute rocket ship disguised as family transport.

Range, Battery & Charging

The Model X Plaid packs a substantial 95 kWh usable battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 318 miles – pretty solid for such a beast, with an efficiency of 3.35 mi/kWh. At home, the standard 11.5 kW on-board AC charger can top it up overnight in about 8-9 hours. Out on the road, hit up a Tesla Supercharger and you’ll see up to 250 kW DC fast charging, adding significant range in minutes via its Tesla (NACS) port. It's ready for those long hauls or quick power boosts.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla loads the Model X Plaid with safety tech, backed by a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard Autopilot includes adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, taking some stress out of highway driving. Blind-spot monitoring and collision avoidance systems are also part of the package. For those wanting the latest, the optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability package adds features like Navigate on Autopilot and Autopark, though it still requires attentive driver supervision. It’s a comprehensive suite designed to keep you and yours protected on the move.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Tesla backs the Model X Plaid with a basic vehicle warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Crucially, the battery and drive unit get a more extensive 8-year or 150,000-mile warranty, typically guaranteeing at least 70% battery retention. Unlike some rivals, Tesla doesn't usually offer complimentary scheduled maintenance, as EVs require less routine servicing. Overall reliability for the powertrain is strong, though as with any highly advanced vehicle, occasional tech gremlins aren't unheard of. Peace of mind comes from that beefy battery warranty for the long haul.