Tesla Model X Crossover Races to Production

In less than a month, the Tesla Model X will roll off its California assembly line and into the driveways of the initial buyers. The much-anticipated follow-up to the ground-breaking, top-scoring Model S promises to expand the appeal for premium electric vehicles by adding SUV-like packaging.

The Model X costs about $5,000 more than comparable Model S versions due to the greater size and body complexity, putting starting prices at about $80,000. Like most new car roll outs, the Model X production will initially focus on top-end versions.

Beyond its elevated ride height, the Model X will be distinguished from the Model S, and near every other car, by its unique rear “falcon wing” doors that swing upward. Certain to turn heads in a parking lot, these doors are intended to aid access and are programmable to accommodate different garage ceiling heights.

The Model X further features an automatically retracting rear spoiler, rear accessory hitch for a bike rack or ski carrier, and power-folding and heated side mirrors, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic braking. Like the Model S, it is supported by the free Supercharger network, allowing quick, free roadside recharging, and an eight-year, unlimited-mile warranty.

Model X Signature Series

The initial run of Model X Signature Series cars will use a 90-kWh battery pack, with a claimed output of a staggering 762 hp. These AWD models boast a 3.8-second 0-60 mph and an EPA-estimated 240-mile range. (Less powerful 70-kWh and 85-kWh versions will soon follow.) Fully loaded, the Signature Series includes Autopilot with self parking and automatic lane steering; smart air suspension with location memory; premium interior and lighting; power liftgate; ventilated leather seats with heating and cooling; and flat-folding third-row seat.

While configuring, adding Ludicrous speed (lowering 0-60 mph times to 3.2 seconds); Subzero Weather package with heated steering wheel, wipers, and washer nozzles; and tow package with a two-inch receiver and wiring harness will bring the total to $143,750, plus $1,200 for destination and fees.

Customers who paid a hefty $40,000 deposit when ordering a Signature Series will be the first to receive a Model X, followed by customers who merely put down $5,000 (even as long as three years ago). Those buyers will get their vehicle later in the fall.

For those who order now, Tesla estimates deliveries will be in early 2016 based on the current queue. In other words, get in line, behind Consumer Reports.

Tesla Model 3

While the Model X will remain a high-tech, high-priced dream machine to most consumers, the Model 3 promises to bring many of the virtues down to mainstream budgets. Production will start in about two years, according to Tesla, when the battery-producing Gigafactory is fully operational. Prices are expected to start around $35,000 and no doubt climb from there with additional features and larger battery packs.

Read our complete Tesla Model S P85D road test—for free.

More from Consumer Reports:
Learn more about the Tesla Model S
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