Tesla Model X Plaid

Overview

The Tesla Model X Plaid is not just an electric SUV; it's a warp-speed family hauler with those iconic Falcon Wing doors! This thing redefines performance, packing a tri-motor punch that embarrasses supercars, all while seating six. It’s a tech-lover's dream with a minimalist cabin and massive screen. For European buyers, the 2025 Model X Plaid starts new from around 114,990 €, with used examples fetching about 81,890 €. It’s practical lunacy on wheels, offering a unique blend of space, tech, and face-melting acceleration, positioning it as a truly standout option.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Model X Plaid continues Tesla’s philosophy of constant evolution rather than traditional model-year shake-ups. Don't expect a massive overhaul; instead, look for ongoing software enhancements refining Autopilot, infotainment, and potentially even efficiency. Recent interior updates, like the swiveling main display and improved material quality, carry over. The core Plaid powertrain remains its jaw-dropping self. Think of it as the same beast, just getting incrementally smarter and perhaps a tad more polished through over-the-air updates, keeping it fresh for the European market.

Design & Exterior

The Model X Plaid retains its distinctive, almost spaceship-like silhouette, dominated by those show-stopping Falcon Wing rear doors – still a party trick! While the overall design is familiar, its slippery shape contributes to efficiency. The Plaid gets subtle aero tweaks and badging to hint at its Herculean performance. Dimension-wise, it’s a substantial machine, measuring 5057 mm long, 1999 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1680 mm tall. It’s a blend of futuristic MPV and potent SUV, certainly a head-turner on European roads with its clean lines and panoramic windscreen.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Model X Plaid, and you're greeted by Tesla's signature minimalist cool, now with improved material quality. The Yoke steering remains an option, with a regular wheel available. A massive 17-inch cinematic display dominates the dash, handling everything from navigation to bonkers gaming. It comfortably seats six as per its configuration. Cargo? Plentiful! You get a useful 183-litre frunk, 425 litres in the boot, expanding to a van-like 2431 litres with seats down. Tech includes premium connectivity and a cracking sound system, though no official Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The Model X Plaid is savagely quick. Its tri-motor all-wheel-drive system, featuring one PMSM motor at the front and two PMSM units at the rear, unleashes a colossal 760 kW and 1020 Nm of torque. This translates to a blistering 0-100 km/h sprint in just 2.8 seconds – enough to rearrange your internal organs! Despite its size, adaptive air suspension provides a surprisingly composed ride and decent handling, though it's more of a straight-line missile. Regenerative braking is strong and adjustable, allowing for one-pedal driving bliss.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powering this beast is a 95 kWh usable battery pack, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 482 km – pretty decent for this level of poke! Efficiency is rated at an impressive 5.07 km/kWh. For charging, the standard 11 kW on-board AC charger will fill it up overnight. Hooked up to a DC fast charger, the Model X Plaid can guzzle electrons at up to 250 kW via its CCS Type 2 port (Tesla's version), meaning significant range can be added in minutes on Tesla’s widespread Supercharger network.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a strong suit, with the Model X Plaid boasting a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard Autopilot provides adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, taking the sting out of long journeys. You'll also get blind-spot monitoring and collision avoidance systems as standard. For those wanting more, Tesla’s ‘Enhanced Autopilot’ or the ‘Full Self-Driving Capability’ package can be optioned, adding features like auto lane change and summon, though its full functionality in Europe depends on local regulations. Always stay alert, driver!

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

In Europe, the Tesla Model X Plaid typically comes with a basic vehicle warranty of 4 years or 80,000 km, whichever comes first. The crucial battery and drive unit are covered for a more substantial 8 years or 240,000 km, guaranteeing at least 70% battery capacity retention. Being electric, routine maintenance is minimal compared to combustion cars – no oil changes here! Think tyre rotations, brake fluid checks, and cabin air filter replacements. Over-the-air software updates also keep the car feeling fresh without dealer visits.