Tesla just gave its premium electric duo—the Model S sedan and Model X SUV—a noteworthy refresh. And yes, it comes with a $5,000 price bump. So, what do you actually get for the extra cash? More than you might expect: quieter cabins, extended range, subtle design tweaks, and smarter tech.
Tesla Model S and X Get Major Overhaul
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Quieter cabin | Enhanced glass and noise cancellation |
| Extended range | Up to 410 miles for Model S Long Range |
| Added front camera | Boosts Autopilot & Summon accuracy |
Quieter, Smoother, Smarter: The New Driving Experience
Tesla didn’t reinvent the wheel here, but it sure smoothed it out. The updated Model S and X now come equipped with acoustic-lined glass, new suspension bushings, and improved active noise cancellation. The result? A noticeable drop in cabin noise, especially on highways.
Inside, a touch of ambient lighting now lines the dash and doors—a subtle upgrade that gives the interior a moodier, more premium feel.
More Miles per Charge
Range got a bump too. The Model S Long Range can now travel up to 410 miles on a single charge, while the Model X variants also enjoy slight efficiency gains. Tesla attributes part of this to new aerodynamic wheels (19-inch Magnetite on the S and 20-inch Perihelix on the X).
For daily commuters and long-distance drivers alike, that extra range isn’t just nice—it’s meaningful.
New Camera, Better Tech
Tesla also added a front bumper camera, giving the Autopilot and Smart Summon features an edge in object detection and maneuvering. While full self-driving (FSD) is still a work in progress, this change nudges things forward.
Style Tweaks That Work
The exterior got a facelift, but nothing too loud. Look for redesigned bumpers, new paint options like Frost Blue Metallic, and sleeker wheel options. It’s subtle but effective—enough to stand out at a stoplight.
Under the hood, both models got a bit heavier. The Model S Plaid gained 26 lbs, and the Model X Plaid packed on 186 lbs. And yes, Tesla quietly dropped the Model S Plaid’s top speed from 200 mph to 149 mph—likely in the name of ride quality.
Price Breakdown
| Model | New Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Model S AWD | $84,990 | Long Range: 410 miles |
| Model S Plaid | $99,990 | Top speed capped at 149 mph |
| Model X AWD | $89,990 | Includes new tech and range bump |
| Model X Plaid | $104,990 | Heavier but better equipped |
What You Don’t Get
Here’s what didn’t make the cut:
- No 800-volt architecture (Cybertruck still owns that crown)
- No steer-by-wire system
- No major infotainment overhaul
- No return of the yoke steering wheel
If you were hoping for a fully reimagined interior or dramatic performance boost, this isn’t that update.
Should You Shell Out the Extra $5K?
Honestly? If you’re eyeing the S or X already, the refresh brings enough improvements to justify the bump. You get a quieter, comfier ride, better driving tech, and a few aesthetic wins. But if you’re chasing Tesla’s bleeding edge, you’ll want to wait for the next-gen models.
As someone who’s spent time behind the wheel of the refreshed Model Y, the quieter ride alone is worth the upgrade. Tesla is finally giving these high-end vehicles the luxury touches they deserve.
FAQs
How much quieter are the new Model S and X?
They include acoustic-lined glass, updated suspension, and noise-canceling tech, leading to a significantly more serene ride.
Why did the Model S Plaid lose its 200 mph top speed?
Tesla reduced it to 149 mph, likely for better drivability and thermal efficiency.
Does the upgrade include any self-driving improvements?
Yes, a front bumper camera improves Autopilot and Summon capabilities, but FSD is still in beta.
