Used 2018 Tesla Model X

For 2018, the Tesla Model X continues to be the only fully electric 3-row SUV on the market. Beyond an electric powertrain that can deliver nearly 300 miles on a single charge, the Model X displays a number of unique features that include Falcon Wing rear doors and an autonomous-driving system known as Autopilot. Because electric motors are all about torque and lots of it, the Model X can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds. The base Model X 75D can travel up to 237 miles on a charge, the 100D 295 miles and the P100D 289 miles. On the flip side, the Model X is expensive and its interior isn’t as versatile as many gasoline-powered rivals.

In everyday driving, you’d be hard-pressed to distinguish among the Model X’s three trim levels. The ride is smooth and comfortable, power is abundant and accommodations are fairly comfortable, so long as you’re not jammed into the 3rd-row seat. Responsive steering feedback helps this big-crossover SUV feel a bit smaller and more agile than one would think, making the Model X an easy vehicle to live with. The real thrill in owning a Model X, however, is the instantaneous rush of speed that comes when you put your foot down. On the P100D trim, the available Ludicrous Mode delivers 100 percent of the electric motor’s power to the wheels, delivering a breathtaking zero-to-60-mph run in 2.9 seconds. For about $50,000, the 75D may not be as fast or go as far, but it’s no slouch.

Inside, the Model X is essentially identical to the Tesla Model S sedan. That means comfort is high, as is material quality, but fit can be inconsistent. It also means the controls for the climate, audio and other functions are electronic and found on a massive 17-inch touch screen that makes up the majority of the dashboard. It’s the largest screen in the business, and it’s fast to react and simple to use. Also unique are the Tesla’s power-operated Falcon Wing doors that open up instead of out. They’ll wow your neighbors but can be frustrating in tight spaces.

Much of the Tesla’s appeal is that it looks like nothing else on the road. Well, except for another Tesla. When viewed from the front, the 2018 Tesla Model X is almost indistinguishable from its sexy sedan brother, the Model S, which is still one of the best-looking cars around. And the family resemblance continues with the SUV’s steep windshield, flush chrome door handles and fastback roofline. However, while the Model S pleases the eyes with a low silhouette and wide stance, when viewed from some angles the Model X looks awkwardly tall and a bit slab-sided.

17-INCH INFOTAINMENT SCREEN
If you’re the type who lives for the next Consumer Electronics Show, the 2018 Model X’s massive 17-inch infotainment screen will have you jumping for joy. Serving as the car’s command center, the tablet-like screen uses a pinch-and-swipe function to control audio, climate and navigation.

AUTOPILOT
The Tesla Model X’s Autopilot allows the car to do the braking, accelerating and steering with no input from the driver. A system of GPS, external sensors and numerous cameras permit the vehicle to see traffic and pedestrians. It’s even smart enough to alert the driver if he or she needs to take control.

There’s no such thing as a “stripper” Tesla. The Model X comes very well equipped, even in base 75D configuration. Standard equipment includes all-wheel drive, air suspension, navigation with real-time traffic, LED headlights, power-folding, heated outside mirrors, keyless entry, power Falcon Wing rear doors and a power rear liftgate. Standard is a 2-row configuration that seats five. There’s also an 8-year/infinite-mile warranty on the battery and drive unit as well as a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty on the rest of the vehicle. The 100D and P100D models get a few more features, and the P100D comes with Ludicrous Mode for ultimate acceleration.

A third row is optional as are 2nd-row captain’s chairs, so the new Model X can be configured as a 5-, 6- or 7-passenger SUV. Available are a Subzero Weather Package with seat heaters throughout the cabin and a heated steering wheel, an optional 17-speaker audio system, a towing package and a Premium Upgrades Package, which allows the front doors to open automatically as you approach the vehicle, a HEPA air-filtration system with a Bio-weapons Defense Mode and leather interior trim. You can also order Full Self-Driving Capability, which enables the car to drive itself and park itself.

Every 2018 Tesla Model X is powered by two AC electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack, with either 75 kWh (75D) or 100 kWh (100D and P100D). All three models use the same single-speed transmission and all three models are all-wheel drive. The 100D offers the most driving range, an incredible 295 miles. The 75D can travel 237 miles on a charge. Tesla says charging from a standard 240v 48-amp wall connector will take about eight hours. That quickens to five hours using a 72-amp wall connector and only an hour using one of Tesla’s nationwide Superchargers.

AC electric motors with 75-kWh lithium-ion battery pack (75D)
N/A horsepower
N/A lb-ft of torque
Range with full charge: 237 miles

AC electric motors with 100-kWh lithium-ion battery pack (100D)
N/A horsepower
N/A lb-ft of torque
Range with full charge: 295 miles

AC electric motors with 100-kWh lithium-ion battery pack (P100D)
N/A horsepower
N/A lb-ft of torque
Range with full charge: 289 miles