Tesla brings refreshed Model S and X back to Europe

It was only in July that Tesla removed its two luxury series, Model S and Model X, from its European configurator. It looked as if, at least on the local market, the final hour had come for the two veterans – after all, the sedan is now thirteen years old and the SUV has at least a decade under its belt. Even though both models have been continuously modernised over the course of their production, these are unusually long model cycles, especially in the electric car sector.

Although the end of the two pioneers has often been predicted, Tesla has now revamped them once again. They are now available to order again in continental Europe, with the first models due to be delivered in November. The revamped Model S is available from €109,990, while the Model X costs at least €114,990.

Visually, little has changed

Externally, the update is barely noticeable on the two luxury models. The design changes are limited to new 19-inch or 21-inch wheels and dynamic ambient lighting in the interior. Speaking of the interior, the third row of seats in the Model X has been adjusted to provide better shoulder room in the rear of the seven-seater.

At the same time, the Model S and Model X have also been optimised in terms of noise comfort. Thanks to better insulation, including new sound-absorbing materials, passengers are better shielded from wind and road noise. Active noise cancellation has also been improved. Subtle changes to the chassis serve the same purpose. The engineers have also fine-tuned the air suspension to make it more comfortable.

The user interface has been adapted and designed specifically for each model. A front camera is included as standard. A blind spot warning light and improved visibility, thanks to new adaptive headlights, ensure greater safety.

According to the company, Tesla has also made further improvements in terms of efficiency. New aerodynamic rims and low-rolling-resistance tyres are designed to increase the range slightly. In addition, the powertrain is said to deliver more consistent performance even at particularly high and extremely low temperatures.

Up to 744 kilometres of range

Both the Model S and Model X are available exclusively with all-wheel drive. The power storage system is likely to remain the familiar 95 kWh battery. Tesla states the WLTP range for the revised Model S Long Range as 744 kilometres. It is said to go from zero to 100 in 3.2 seconds, while its top speed is limited to 240 kph.

Due to its higher weight and poorer aerodynamics, certain compromises still have to be made with the Model X even after the update. The SUV can travel a maximum of 600 kilometres on a single battery charge. In addition, it takes 0.7 seconds longer to accelerate to the standard country road speed. The top speed, on the other hand, is identical. The 750 kW Plaid version of the Model X breaks the 100 kph mark in 2.6 seconds and has a top speed of 262 kph. With the optional 22-inch wheels fitted, the range is 567 kilometres.

More refinement for the Model S Plaid

After its European market launch at the end of 2022, the Model S Plaid was the fastest sports sedan in the world for quite some time and therefore a real image booster for the American company. The top model still has a special significance for Tesla, which is why the redesign is a little more extensive. Both the front and rear aprons have been redesigned. At the front, there is a new front spoiler designed to increase downforce. At the rear, an optimised diffuser is intended to improve aerodynamics. There is also a carbon rear spoiler. New stabilisers are designed to improve handling at high speeds.

Tesla’s development department has also modified the drive system – the rotors have been optimised and will now feature a carbon sleeve. The company continues to quote acceleration from zero to 100 kph in 2.1 seconds. If you order the optional ceramic brakes, the Model S Plaid can reach an impressive 322 kph. Otherwise, the model reaches its limit at 262 kph. The range of the top version is 611 kilometres, making it suitable for long distances. Buyers of the Plaid version can also charge for free at Superchargers for the entire duration of ownership.

Source: Info via email

This article was first published by Elias Holdenried for electrive’s German edition.