2021 Tesla Model X Review

Although the Model X debuted over five years ago, it's still essentially a unicorn in the market. Even if you take its showstopping falcon-wing rear doors out of the equation, no other SUV — electric or otherwise — can match the Model X's acceleration. Throw in its impressive 360 miles of estimated driving range and you really do have a one-of-a-kind vehicle.

For 2021, Tesla has updated the interior of the Model X with a higher-definition 17-inch touchscreen, a new instrument panel, and a rather controversial steering wheel design that looks more like something from an airplane than a car. The automaker also changed the name of the Performance version to Plaid, a reference to the Mel Brooks movie Spaceballs.

Direct competitors are few, with Tesla's own Model S sedan the most similar in range and performance. If you don't need the space the Model X offers, the smaller Tesla Model Y is also worth a look. Audi's e-tron SUV is another all-electric luxury SUV, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE offers superior interior materials and build quality, though it's currently only available with a gasoline engine. Is the Model X a truly unique world beater? Read our Expert Rating below to find out.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' editorial team acquired and lived with a 2016 Tesla Model X for nearly two years, logging nearly 25,000 miles. As an all new-design for Tesla, it had a few teething problems at first and suffered from some build-quality issues. The 2021 Tesla Model X differs from our early long-term Model X by way of improved cabin materials and significantly upgraded software, and build quality in recent Teslas we've driven is much improved. It's the same generation, though, so many of our observations still apply. To learn more about the Tesla Model X, check out our 2016 Tesla Model X coverage.

The Tesla Model X is a battery electric SUV with seating for five, six or seven people. Two trim levels are available, Long Range and Plaid (formerly the Performance trim), and every Model X is all-wheel-drive. The estimated range is 360 miles for the Long Range and 340 miles for the Plaid. Of note: Tesla has the ability to upgrade or add features through over-the-air updates, so features may be added or expanded throughout the model year.