It’s time for a deep dive into my experience with the Tesla Model X Plaid after 10,000 miles. This car has been a source of both joy and frustration, and in this post, I’ll share a comprehensive review, highlighting the good, the bad, and the ugly. Get ready for a candid and detailed look at this high-performance electric SUV.
Exterior Impressions: Sleek, Stylish, and (Slightly) Flawed
Our Model X Plaid is decked out in Ultra Red paint, accented by XPEL Stealth PPF for a matte finish. We’ve also added some EVBase mud flaps for extra protection. While I love the overall look, the matte finish does tend to show dust more easily.
The Falcon Wing doors are undoubtedly a head-turner. The ultrasonic sensors that control the front doors have occasionally malfunctioned, causing them to open less wide than they should. Thankfully, Tesla service and software updates have been able to resolve these issues.
Interior Highlights: Spacious, Comfortable, and Tech-Filled
The Model X Plaid’s interior comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. The cream-colored interior adds a touch of luxury, and the carbon fiber accents give it a sporty vibe.
The massive 17-inch touchscreen is a centerpiece of the interior, offering a responsive and intuitive interface for controlling various vehicle functions. I also appreciate the secondary screen behind the steering wheel, which provides additional information and customization options.
However, there are a few things I don’t love about the interior. The touch-capacitive buttons are a bit finicky, and the horn is awkwardly placed on the steering wheel. The A-pillar is also quite wide, creating some blind spots.
Performance and Efficiency: A True Plaid Experience
The Model X Plaid’s performance is simply exhilarating. Plaid mode delivers mind-blowing acceleration that pushes you back in your seat. And the adaptive air suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads.
Despite its size and performance, the Model X Plaid is surprisingly efficient, especially on road trips. We’ve taken it on numerous trips to Las Vegas, and it consistently delivers impressive range and efficiency.
The Annoying Clicking Noise
One persistent issue that has plagued both of our Model X Plaid and Long Range is a clicking noise that occurs at low speeds when turning the steering wheel. Tesla service has attempted to fix it multiple times, but it keeps coming back. It’s a minor annoyance, but it’s definitely not something you’d expect in a car of this price range.
Check out the buyback of our previous Model X Long Range
Space and Utility: A Mixed Bag
The Tesla Model X offers ample space for passengers, but cargo space is a bit limited, especially when all three rows of seats are in use. We often find ourselves folding down one of the third-row seats to accommodate our luggage.
And the biggest disappointment? No 110V outlet! It’s a strange omission in an electric car, and it limits the car’s utility for things like charging laptops or powering small appliances.
Final Verdict: Would I Buy It Again?
Despite its impressive performance and comfort, the reliability issues, limited cargo space, and lack of a 110V outlet make it difficult for me to recommend the Model X Plaid without reservations. If you’re looking for a spacious and reliable EV with ample cargo space, there are better options available.
However, if performance is your top priority and you don’t need a lot of cargo space, the Model X Plaid is still a thrilling and capable machine. Just be prepared for the possibility of encountering some quirks and quality issues along the way.
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