2017 Tesla Model X reader test team review
The Model X is the first all-electric SUV to go on sale. Tesla claims good practicality, ease of daily use, a premium interior and blistering performance. Do our readers concur?
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Maurizio Cappitta
Age: 36 Job: Sales development manager Drives: Jaguar XKR
βI admire Tesla, but Iβm unsure about electric cars. I wanted to see whether the Model X would change my view β whether an electric SUV could really put a grin on my face.
βThe way I see it, Tesla is doing to the motor industry what Apple did to mobile phones. βTraditionalβ manufacturers are now building cars with lots of technology in them, but Tesla builds its cars around the latest technology.
βI anticipated that the Model X would be like driving a household appliance β something that just does the job β but I was wrong. The instant torque is unbelievable. If you floor it away from a set of traffic lights, it leaves other cars far behind, and you can see other drivers thinking: βWow, what is that? How did it do that?β. Thatβs what makes this car special to me.
βI was unsure about the Model Xβs Falcon Wing doors; what happens if you park in a narrow space or thereβs a low roof? But itβs double-hinged, and it scans its surroundings, so it can open in very small spaces and adjust itself not to hit anything.
βI love that the car's driving and infotainment software is wirelessly updated for free, so you always have the latest functions.β
Russell Hunt
Age: 49 Job: Financial adviser Drives: BMW X1
βIβm getting more interested in electric cars, and I drive an SUV, so the Model X is ideal for me.
βItβs so easy to drive. In the city, it really takes the stress away, due to the lack of noise, electronic driving assists and the lack of a gearbox.
βThe main benefit of electric motoring for me is the increased fuel efficiency. Officially, the range is up to 351 miles, and my commute is around 15 miles, so I could simply charge this car at home overnight.
βThe instant torque is really quite exhilarating. This car can throw you down the road like a rollercoaster. The fact that itβs almost silent is a bit disconcerting for passengers, mind.
βAnnoyingly, the middle seat in the second row cuts off your vision in the rear-view mirror, so you have to use the reversing camera on the screen when youβre driving, which isnβt ideal. Iβd also worry the camera lens could get dirty and obscure your view.
βThe interior material quality is not representative of a car at this price point. If you look at a Range Rover Sport or an Audi Q7, you can see the difference. And Iβd expect to get leather seats as standard.
βBut overall, Iβm very pleased. Itβs great to drive, thereβs lots of technology and itβs family-friendly.β
Read more - our full Tesla Model X review
Read more - the best (and worst) electric cars
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