2022 Tesla Model X Review

Like any Tesla, the exterior look of the Model X is distinctive, with a sleek silhouette that copes well with it’s the size. The centrepiece of the futuristic exterior are the Falcon Wing doors. These may seem like a novelty at first, but they are actually quite practical, opening in less than 30cms of space and providing easier access to the rear of the vehicle. If a strong colour is to your liking, it is worth noting that while a white finish is included for free, a Tesla Red Multi-Coat finish comes at an additional €2700 in Ireland.

Inside the Model X is very big on space and the panoramic windscreen design gives it an even more airy feel. The rear has legroom sufficient for three adults to sit in comfort, and although the headroom is reduced, adults can also sit comfortably in a third row if required. Buyers have the option of ordering a six or seven seat layout but, be warned these come with a significant additional price tag. 

Instrument wise the interior is dominated by 17-inch display touch screen, which controls many of the vehicle and infotainment functions. While this is an impressive piece of kit, it does lack the simplicity of more tactile controls for common functions such as heating. 

As you would expect from a Tesla, it has all the advanced technology and connectivity you could ever desire.   

The dual electric motors gives the Tesla Model X quite astounding performance in terms of acceleration. The Model X Plaid would leave many a supercar on the starting line with its 2.7 second 0-60 mph performance. Even in its basic form, the Model X delivers enough performance to get out of any muddy field, if it did happen to end up in one, but like any electric car, the other key considerations are range and charging. Tesla says that up to 360km is possible on a single charge, but in most real world situations expect more like 250-300km. 

One of Tesla’s big selling points is access to its own ‘Supercharger’ public charging points which can top up batteries to 80% in 40 minutes. However, you may be a little disappointed by the numbers in the network map for Ireland at present. More likely is an overnight wall point charge which takes around 14 hours. 

Of course, we can't say a huge amount about the reliability of the Model X, it being such a new car. But suffice it to say that Tesla are building these to last. They offer a standard 4 year warranty on the main components and body, and are so sure of their batteries that they are offering an 8 year warranty on those.

Dependent on journey types, the Model X will be less expensive to run than its internal combustion engine competitors. Servicing costs should also be lower and the Model X comes with a Tesla 4 year warranty. However, keep in mind that service points are limited to the major cities, so maintenance might not always be convenient. 

Even as a very sizeable SUV, the Model X is very easy to drive and quiet and comfortable on major roads. Unfortunately, Ireland is not blessed with endless smooth highways and the ride quality on less kind surfaces leaves something to be desired. You will also tend to feel its weight and stiffness in corners. 

High-strength architecture means this model offers excellent occupant protection. Tesla also is seen as leader when it comes to autonomous driving systems and the Model X reflects this with a range of advanced active safety and driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking. The optional Tesla Autopilot feature allows the car to steer, accelerate and brake automatically within its lane under active supervision. There are also the options of Enhanced Autopilot, with Auto Lane Change, Autopark and Smart Summon and the top of the range “Full Self-Driving Capability”. 

Advanced technology, space-age interior look and amazingly powerful performance have come together in a distinctive Tesla design package that also offers a high degree of interior space and practicality. This means that the Model X will have big appeal to a certain segment of the market, but may find it hard to turn the heads of more traditional premium SUV buyers. Also, while the Model X may have the technology to match its price tag, it perhaps lacks the build quality and level of finish you might expect.