Jeremy Webb road tests the Tesla Model X, and after just an hour, he discovered the Wow factor.
Tesla is making a lot of claims about their Model X SUV, stating it is “the safest, fastest and most capable sports utility vehicle in history.” This is a strong statement to back up, but over the week I had the car, it proved itself to me.
Whether it is the best in every category as the company claims is to be determined. I can’t possibly answer this as I have not driven every similar SUV made.
The superb Falcon Wing doors open upwards to allow easy access to the second and third-row seats from even the tightest parking space.
Only a foot of clearance on either side is required to allow the doors to articulate smoothly up and out of the way.
Passengers can enter from both front and rear directions. The side and overhead openings are so large that parents can buckle children in without ducking or straining and without bumping their child’s head on the roof.
The vehicle has automatic keyless entry and an automatic rear tailgate from the key fob, which is shaped like the car—a nice touch. The tailgate closes with the touch of a button on the lower seal.
The canopy windscreen is the largest single piece of glass installed in a car in the world. Offering superb views for all occupants, and gives the feel of sitting in a cinema. Lots of natural light enters the whole car.
Active safety technologies, including collision avoidance and automatic emergency braking, have begun rolling out through over-the-air updates.
Electric All-Wheel Drive for maximum efficiency and traction allows all the power from the motors to be delivered to the road, pushing the car along rapidly when required. The grip is great, and the Model X holds its course fantastically, giving the driver great confidence.
Parking sensors and blind spot warning aid the driver throughout their journey. If a vehicle approaches the Model X from behind, to the left or right of the centre, the blind spot system activates, notifying the driver there is a vehicle in close proximity. The parking sensors allow for safer parking with great confidence, as bleeps are emitted if the vehicle nears an object in front or back of it.
To maintain occupant comfort and safety, Tesla has fitted a medical-grade HEPA filter. Air entering the vehicle is cleaned of pollen, bacteria, viruses, and pollution before circulating it into the cabin. There are three modes: circulate with outside air, re-circulate inside air and a bioweapon defence mode that creates positive pressure inside the cabin.
Tesla is continually enhancing their models, and they can do this via over-the-air updates.
The Model X has Enhanced Autopilot, and the latest software update now has improved capabilities, including Autosteer up to 90 mph, Auto Lane Change, Summon (beta), Lane Departure Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking.
All the safety and technology that goes into the Model X, along with the great drive it provides, make it a desirable car. I would certainly be happy to own one. The car looks good, it is cable of achieving 351 miles of range.
Tesla says It is the most aerodynamic SUV in production. At 0.25, the drag coefficient is 20% lower than the next best SUV. For a large SUV, it handles well, with the all-wheel drive aiding this, as it does with performance, allowing the direct drive to power it along. The acceleration is truly rapid and exhilarating.
Versatility with the various seating options and storage capacity make it a perfect family vehicle. When choosing an SUV, this really does have the X-factor.
Tesla Model X Specifications
- Model X prices start from £70,500 for a 75D.
- 0-60 mph 100D 3.6 secs P100D 2.9 secs
- Top Speed 155 mph
- Width 89.4” With mirrors folded 81.5”
- Ground Clearance 5.4” – 8.3”
- Length 198.3”
- Wheelbase 116.7”
Warranty
8-year, infinite mile battery and drive unit warranty
4-year, 50,000 miles limited warranty
Learn about the Model X here.
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