Because Tesla completely redesigned this electric SUV in 2021, we don’t expect any sweeping changes in the 2022 Tesla Model X.
But there is Tesla’s capability to update the software in its vehicles on the run.
In other words, it can make most software enhancements as you silently cruise down the highway. They don’t require a model-year change to do that.
More than one automotive pundit has voiced the idea a Plaid+ trim might find its way into the Model X for 2022. However, with Tesla axing it from the 2022 Model S, the likelihood of it appearing in the X has fallen to near zero.
So, we believe the all-wheel-drive (AWD) Model X will return with the same two-trim lineup: Long Range and Plaid.
For the time being, at least, the Model X is the electric SUV that other electric SUVs aspire to be.
It’s blisteringly quick, has an impressive range, and is loaded with driver assistance technologies.
The X, however, is not all sunshine and unicorns.
We think the top-hinged (“Falcon Wing” in Tesla speak) rear doors are impractical and a bit gimmicky. They may also become a reliability issue at some point.
Moreover, we believe any vehicle as advanced as the Model X should offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The X doesn’t. Nor does any other Tesla.
Then there is the horse-choking price that is way out of reach of the average car buyer.
Oh, and if you want any color but white, it will set you back between $1,500 and $2,500.
If you can afford one, you will probably need to wait for it. At this writing, the estimated delivery for a new Model X ordered today is at least seven months out.
2022 Tesla Model X Long Range (starting at $120,490)
The 2022 Tesla Model X Long Range (with bike rack attachment) in Deep Blue Metallic.
Propelling the Long Range are two electric motors situated on the front and rear axles. The battery pack is under the passenger floor.
This Model X model has a top speed of 155 miles per hour and can sprint from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds.
Its range on a full charge is up to 348 miles.
The government uses a different formula to estimate mileage for vehicles with the capability to operate on electric-only propulsion. It’s called Miles Per Gallon equivalent (MPGe).
Using this formula, the Long Range delivers a government-estimated 107 MPGe in the city, 97 MPGe on the highway, and 102 MPGe in combined driving.
Every Model X comes with smartphone access that frees you from carrying a key or a fob.
Both Model X grades are similarly outfitted.
Standard features include 20-inch wheels, seating for five, a panoramic sunroof, 12-way power front seats, heated front/rear seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Also included are heated windshield-washer nozzles, LED headlights, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Among the infotainment goodies are a 17-inch touchscreen, a 17-speaker audio system, navigation system, satellite radio capability, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
Tesla makes its Autopilot group of driver aids standard. They include forward collision warning, forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
High-beam assist and adaptive cruise control are also included.
An enhanced Autopilot, which Tesla calls Full Self-Driving Capability ($12,000) is available on both Model X grades. It requires a driver’s eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
Among its technologies are automatic lane changing, self-parking, remote parking, automatic traffic-light-and-stop-sign response, and automatic navigation.
Adding the $1,200 destination fee to the Long Range base price totals $121,690. With no money down, the monthly cost for financing that amount for 60 months at 3% interest is about $2,187. Find a 2022 Tesla Model X Long Range for sale.
2022 Tesla Model X Long Range includes:
- Up to 348 miles range – On a full charge, the electric propulsion system can go up to 348 miles. The top speed is 155 mph.
- 17-inch touchscreen – Every system control is housed in this mammoth touchscreen.
- Over-the-air updates – Updating the software is remote. There is no need to go somewhere to install the latest software.
2022 Tesla Model X Plaid (starting at $144,490)
The 2022 Tesla Model X Plaid in Midnight Silver Metallic.
Basically sharing all content with the Long Range, Plaid adds a third motor, loses a bit of range, and gains some performance.
It also gets carbon-sleeved brake rotors.
Capable of making the 60 mph charge in a stupid-quick 2.5 seconds, Plaid also has a top speed of 163 mph.
Its range on a full charge is up to 340 miles.
Not surprisingly, Plaid loses some mileage performance. It drops to 100 MPGe city/95 MPGe highway/97 MPGe combined.
Adding the $1,200 destination fee to the Plaid base price brings the total to $145,690. Financing that amount for 60 months at 3% with no money down works out to about $2,618 per month. Find a 2022 Tesla Model X Plaid for sale.
2022 Tesla Model X Plaid includes:
- Up to 333 miles of range – On a full charge, the electric propulsion system can go up to 333 miles. The top speed is 163 mph.
- Third motor – Increasing performance and decreasing mileage, a third motor is added to the rear.
- Carbon-sleeved brake rotors – Improving thermal stability, these rotors are less likely to warp from the heat.
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