Tesla has refreshed its flagship Model S and Model X vehicles with a series of enhancements that come alongside a notable price adjustment. Both models now carry a $5,000 premium across their respective Long Range and Plaid configurations, positioning the updated vehicles at higher price points than their predecessors.
The changes span exterior design elements, interior lighting systems, and functional improvements that Tesla says enhance the overall driving experience. However, the question remains: do these updates justify the price increase?
Tesla’s Model S and Model X updates represent a strategic repositioning of the company’s premium vehicle offerings. Model S Long Range now starts at $84,990, while the Model S Plaid reaches $99,990. Similarly, Model X Long Range begins at $89,990, with the Model X Plaid commanding $104,990.
This pricing adjustment places both models firmly in luxury territory, where Tesla competes against established premium manufacturers. Tesla clearly believes the enhanced features warrant the additional cost, though market reception will ultimately determine whether consumers agree with this assessment.
Tesla has implemented several exterior changes that modernize the vehicles’ appearance while adding functional capability.
The addition of a front bumper camera with washer functionality addresses a practical need for Tesla’s Autopilot system. Camera enables “enhanced visibility when using Autopilot and Actually Smart Summon,” according to Tesla’s confirmation.
The placement and washer integration suggest Tesla has learned from real-world usage patterns where front-facing cameras can become obscured by road debris or weather conditions. Enhancement directly impacts the vehicles’ autonomous driving capabilities.
Tesla has expanded color options with two new exterior choices: Frost Blue Metallic at $2,500 and Diamond Black at $1,500. Additions provide customers with more personalization options while generating additional revenue through premium color pricing.
The company has also updated the front Tesla logo from chrome to matte black, reflecting current design trends that favor understated branding over traditional chrome accents.
Updated Model S front Tesla logo from chrome to matte black
The interior updates focus heavily on ambient lighting systems that transform the cabin experience.
Tesla has introduced multi-color ambient lighting across the dashboard, center console sides, and both front and rear doors. LED footwell lights in front and rear positions now offer customizable colors, along with LED lights in door pockets that can be adjusted to user preferences.
These lighting enhancements create a more personalized cabin environment while aligning with luxury vehicle expectations in this price segment.
Beyond visual changes, Tesla has addressed practical concerns that affect daily driving comfort.
Updated Model S/X feature reduced wind and road noise through engineering improvements. Tesla has also enhanced its Active Noise Cancellation system, creating a quieter cabin environment that matches luxury vehicle standards.
Model X receives additional practical benefits with more space for third-row occupants and expanded cargo capacity, addressing long-standing criticisms about the vehicle’s interior packaging.
Tesla has included adaptive driving beams in the updates, improving nighttime visibility while automatically adjusting to oncoming traffic.
Both models receive new wheel designs: 19″ Magnetite Wheels for the Model S and 20″ Perihelix Wheels for the Model X.
New wheels on the updated Model S and Model X
The Tesla Model S and Model X updates demonstrate the company’s commitment to iterative improvement, though whether these enhancements justify the higher pricing will depend on market acceptance. For Tesla, these updates aren’t just refreshes – they’re clearly designed to model customer expectations at higher price points.
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