You might think that buying a Tesla Model X is a no-brainer, but not all models are created equal. In fact, some years are better than others, and understanding the differences can save you from a costly mistake.
The Model X has had its share of standout years, like the 2019 Raven model, which boasts improved suspension and motors. But which years should you avoid, and what key issues should you look out for when buying used? Let’s examine the best and worst years of the Tesla Model X.
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Key Takeaways
- The 2016-2017 Model X P90D is considered one of the worst years due to limited range and reliability issues with the early models’ small batteries.
- The 2019-2020 Model X Long Range is a better option, offering a longer EPA range of 328 miles and improved performance.
- The 2022 Model X Plaid is a top pick, boasting a 311-mile EPA range, 0-60mph in 2.5s, and a top speed of 163mph.
- Avoid early models with falcon wing doors, which can lead to more issues and higher maintenance costs.
- Purchasing a used Model X between two and four years old can help minimize depreciation losses and provide a more affordable option.
Understanding Tesla Model X Depreciation
When you buy a Tesla Model X, you’re not just investing in a luxury electric vehicle – you’re also committing to a significant depreciation hit.
The Model X’s depreciation rate is steep, with a 74.30% drop in value after just one year. By year three, it’s down 49.84%, and after five years, it’s a whopping 57%.
However, purchasing a used Tesla Model X between two and four years old can help minimize these losses. Buying a two-year-old Model X can save you $35,964 compared to buying new.
Buying a Tesla Model X New Vs Used
You’ve got two options when considering a Tesla Model X: buying new or opting for a used model.
If you choose new, you’ll get the latest features, a full warranty, and that new-car smell. However, you’ll pay the premium price, which can be steep.
Buying a used Model X, on the other hand, can save you around 20-30% off the original price. You’ll still get a luxurious electric SUV, but with some mileage and potentially outdated tech.
Weigh your priorities: do you want the latest and greatest or a more affordable option with some trade-offs?
What About Tesla Model X Insurance Costs?
You’re likely wondering how much it’ll cost to insure your Tesla Model X.
On average, you can expect to pay around $2,000 to $3,000 per year, depending on factors like your location, driving record, and coverage levels.
To get a better sense of your yearly premium, it’s essential to compare insurance quotes from different providers and understand how they break down the costs.
Average Insurance Cost
The cost of insuring a Tesla Model X can vary significantly depending on several factors, including your location, driving history, and the level of coverage you choose.
On average, you can expect to pay around $2,000 to $3,000 per year for insurance premiums. This is slightly higher than the national average for other luxury SUVs.
However, the exact cost will depend on your specific circumstances and the insurance company you choose. Be sure to shop around and compare rates to find the best deal for your Model X.
Yearly Premium Breakdown
Breaking down your Tesla Model X insurance costs can help you better understand what you’re paying for and identify areas where you might be able to save.
Your premiums are typically divided into liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. You’ll also pay for personal injury protection and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
The cost of these coverages varies by model years, with newer models typically costing more to insure. For instance, a 2022 Model X may have higher premiums than a 2017 model.
Comparing Insurance Quotes
Comparing insurance quotes is a crucial step in finding the best rates for your Tesla Model X.
You’ll want to research and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to get the most competitive rates. Be prepared to provide details about your vehicle, driving history, and personal information to get accurate quotes.
You can use online insurance comparison tools or work directly with insurance agents to get quotes. Make sure to review the coverage options, deductibles, and limits to guarantee you’re getting the best policy for your needs.
The Best Model Years to Buy a Tesla Model X
You’re likely looking for a Tesla Model X that offers the best value for your money, and that’s where understanding the best model years to buy comes in.
The 2021 model year is the top pick, with 75% of its useful life remaining at an average price of 50% of the original price.
The 2022 and 2020 model years are also attractive options, providing a relatively good value considering their price, maintenance costs, and remaining years of overall predictable expenses.
Buying a used Model X between 2 and 4 years old can be a good strategy to minimize depreciation costs and get a relatively new vehicle.
Tesla Model X Depreciation Rankings
As you weigh your options for a used Tesla Model X, understanding its depreciation rankings can help you make a more informed purchase decision.
The Model X ranks 43.15% for Depreciation compared to other vehicles, with a 5-year resale value of $38,738.
You can expect a 57% depreciation after 5 years, with rates of 74.30%, 59.94%, and 49.84% after 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively.
According to CarEdge, the 2021 Model X is the top pick for best model year value, offering 75% of its useful life remaining at 50% of the original price.
Model X Naming Convention and Significant Changes
You’re likely familiar with the various Model X designations, but have you ever wondered what they actually mean?
The naming convention has undergone changes over the years, with older models using a combination of letters and numbers, and later models quoting range and featuring a “D” for dual motor/all-wheel drive.
As you delve into the Model X’s evolution, it’s essential to understand these designations and the significant updates that have shaped the lineup.
Naming Conventions
Tesla’s Model X naming convention has undergone changes over the years, reflecting the evolution of the electric SUV’s features and capabilities.
You’ll notice that older models used a combination of letters and numbers, while later models’ quote range and end in “D”, indicating dual motor/all-wheel drive.
- Older convention: letters and numbers (e.g., “P” for Performance, digits roughly corresponding to battery size)
- Later convention: range quotes (e.g., “Long Range” or “Performance”) and “D” for dual motor/all-wheel drive
- 2022 Plaid model: tri-motor options and significant interior overhaul
- Raven model (2019): improved suspension and motors
- MCU update (2018): improved performance and added features
Older Model Designations
The older Model X naming convention relied on a combination of letters and numbers to convey specific information about the vehicle’s features and capabilities. You’ll see a “P” indicating Performance models, and the digits roughly corresponding to battery size. A “D” at the end indicates dual motor/all-wheel drive, and all cars come with Autopilot hardware.
| Model | Battery Size | Features |
|---|---|---|
| P90D | 90D | Dual motor, Performance |
| P100D | 100D | Dual motor, Performance |
| 75D | 75D | Dual motor |
| 90 | 90D | Single motor |
This naming convention helps you understand what you’re getting with your Model X.
Later Model Updates
As the Model X continued to evolve, its naming convention underwent a significant transformation.
You’ll notice that the older designations have given way to a more straightforward approach.
- The 2018 MCU update improved performance and added features.
- The 2019 Raven model introduced improved suspension and motors.
- The 2022 update brought a significant interior overhaul and tri-motor options, making it a notable improvement over previous models.
- The new naming convention quotes range, such as “Long Range” or “Performance”, and all designations end in “D”, indicating dual motor/all-wheel drive.
- The 2022 model change also introduced the “Plaid” model, marking a new era for the Model X.
New or Used? Battery Size and Range Considerations
When weighing the pros and cons of buying a new or used Tesla Model X, you’ll want to ponder your priorities – particularly in regard to battery size and range. If you’re looking for a long range, the sweet spot is likely the long-range version, which offers AWD, sub-5 second 0-60, and a range of 292-310 miles. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
| Model Year | Battery Size | Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 100D | 292-310 miles |
| 2021 | Long Range | 305-325 miles |
| Used (2-year-old) | Long Range | 292-310 miles |
Consider a 2-year-old Model X to save around $35,964 compared to buying new.
Model Years and Performance: A Breakdown
You’re likely wondering which Model X years offer the best performance and range for your money.
The answer lies in the various model years and their respective features.
Here’s a breakdown of the top Model X years:
- 2022 Model X Plaid: 311 miles EPA range, 0-60mph in 2.5s, and a top speed of 163mph
- 2016-2017 Model X P90D: 250 miles EPA range, 0-60mph in 3.7s, and a top speed of 155mph
- 2016-2019 Model X P100DL: 289 miles EPA range, 0-60mph in 2.8s, and a top speed of 155mph
- 2019-2020 Model X Long Range: 328 miles EPA range, 0-60mph in 4.4s, and a top speed of 155mph
- 2019-2020 Model X Performance: 272 miles EPA range, 0-60mph in 2.6s, and a top speed of 163mph
Autopilot and Advanced Safety Features
As you investigate the Tesla Model X’s Autopilot and advanced safety features, you’ll want to ponder the system’s reliability concerns, which have been a topic of discussion among owners and critics alike.
Beyond that, you’ll find a suite of advanced safety features, including emergency braking systems, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring, designed to keep you safe on the road.
These features have been continually refined through over-the-air software updates, making the Model X a leader in semi-autonomous driving technology.
Autopilot Reliability Concerns
While Tesla’s Autopilot system has transformed the electric vehicle market, it has also been plagued by reliability concerns that have raised questions about its overall performance.
You may have experienced some issues with your Autopilot system, and you’re not alone.
Some common problems include:
- False collision warnings that can be alarming and distracting
- Autopilot disengagement, which can be frustrating and require your immediate attention
- Navigation errors that can lead to incorrect routing or failed destinations
- Inconsistent Autopilot functionality, which can vary depending on the hardware version
- Software update glitches that can temporarily disable Autopilot features
Advanced Safety Features
The Tesla Model X boasts an impressive array of advanced safety features, headlined by its Autopilot system.
You can easily identify if your Model X has Autopilot by checking the side repeaters on the front wing for a camera.
The Autopilot hardware version, such as HW2 or HW3, can be checked through the car’s settings or with the seller’s documentation.
The level of Autopilot features depends on the software option you choose, allowing you to customize your Autopilot experience.
With Autopilot, you’ll enjoy advanced safety features and semi-autonomous driving capabilities, making it a desirable option for many buyers.
Emergency Braking Systems
You’re likely familiar with the Tesla Model X’s impressive Autopilot system, which we discussed earlier.
The Autopilot system is a key component of the Model X’s emergency braking systems, using a combination of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors to detect and respond to emergency situations.
- Enables automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance
- Reduces crash rates by up to 50% in Tesla vehicles, according to NHTSA data
- Has undergone several software updates, including the “Enhanced Autopilot” update in 2019
- Offers additional features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-change assistance with the Advanced Safety Features package
- Has limitations, including inability to recognize certain road signs and traffic signals
Key Issues to Look Out for in Used Model X Purchases
Because buying a used Tesla Model X can be a complex and overwhelming task, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential pitfalls and key issues that may arise.
You’ll want to avoid early models, especially those with small batteries, due to limited range and reliability issues. The Falcon wing doors, a complex feature, can lead to more issues.
Additionally, owning a Model X out of warranty can be risky, so be cautious when selecting an extended warranty provider. A pre-purchase inspection is recommended to guarantee the vehicle is in good condition, and dealerships may be the best option for getting a thorough inspection.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Tesla Model S, Tesla Model Y and Tesla Model 3. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
