2018 Tesla Model X – A Game Changer in the EV Market

The 2018 Tesla Model X is a truly remarkable vehicle, pushing the boundaries of electric vehicles with futuristic technology, exceptional performance, and sleek design. Tesla has long been at the forefront of the EV revolution, and the Model X is a shining example of their ambition to redefine what an electric car can be. Let's dive into this groundbreaking SUV's features, pros and cons, and why it continues to stand out in the EV market.

Design and Styling

The Tesla Model X is immediately recognizable, thanks to its falcon-wing doors, which are both a statement and a practical feature for those tight parking spaces. These doors are cool, no doubt, but they can be tricky to manage in low-clearance areas like some garages. While they add an impressive flair to the car’s design, they’re not without their quirks.

Exterior

The exterior of the 2018 Model X is smooth and minimalistic. It’s sleek, aerodynamic, and looks futuristic without screaming "sci-fi movie prop." The car has a clean, almost sterile aesthetic with no unnecessary frills. The front grille is nonexistent—something that might look strange to those used to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles but fits with the overall Tesla style.

The large panoramic windshield adds to its futuristic vibe, providing a wider field of view for both driver and passengers, making every drive feel a bit more epic. However, this large windshield can lead to some glaring issues in direct sunlight. The tint helps, but it’s not perfect.

Interior

Inside, the Model X feels like a tech-lover’s dream. The minimalist dashboard centers around the 17-inch touchscreen, which controls almost everything in the car. However, this reliance on touch controls can be a bit frustrating for drivers who prefer physical buttons for quick adjustments.

Tesla’s seats are comfortable but not as plush as some would expect for a luxury SUV. They’re more about function than form, with a focus on durability and practicality. The car can seat up to seven passengers depending on the configuration, and the seats can be folded down for increased cargo space.

Alex Collantes, a longtime EV enthusiast, shares their experience with the interior: "The interior feels like you’re in a spaceship, which I love, but I do miss some of the traditional luxuries. The seats are good, but not what you’d expect for a car in this price range."

Performance and Handling

Performance is where the Model X really shines. With the dual-motor setup and optional all-wheel drive, the 2018 Model X is a powerhouse. The 100D variant delivers an impressive 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. If you opt for the P100D, you can achieve this sprint in an astonishing 2.9 seconds. These are numbers usually reserved for high-end sports cars, not family SUVs.

Acceleration and Speed

Tesla’s all-electric powertrain provides instant torque, making acceleration feel almost instantaneous. This makes the Model X not only fast but also fun to drive. However, with great speed comes great responsibility—range anxiety can be an issue if you're not careful with the throttle.

While Tesla claims a range of 295 miles for the 100D and 289 miles for the P100D, this can decrease quickly with aggressive driving or colder weather conditions. For most drivers, this range will be more than enough for daily commutes, but longer road trips still require careful planning due to the current state of the Supercharger network.

Handling and Suspension

Despite its large size, the Model X handles impressively well for an SUV. It’s not as agile as a compact sedan, but it doesn’t feel as heavy or unwieldy as one might expect. The air suspension helps smooth out rough roads, but some owners report it can feel a little too stiff at times, especially on uneven surfaces. Tesla has improved this over the years, but the 2018 model could use a bit more finesse in this area.

Safety Features

Safety is always a top priority with Tesla. The 2018 Model X comes packed with features designed to keep drivers and passengers safe. Its Autopilot system—though not fully autonomous—offers assistance with lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and self-parking.

However, the system isn’t foolproof, and some drivers have reported issues with the Autopilot’s limitations, especially in heavy traffic or complex driving environments. It’s crucial to remain attentive even when Autopilot is engaged.

The NHTSA awarded the Model X a 5-star rating in all crash tests, making it one of the safest SUVs on the market. However, some critics argue that relying too heavily on autonomous features could create a false sense of security for drivers.

Advanced Safety Systems

• Forward Collision Warning
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Side Collision Avoidance

Tech Features

The Tesla Model X is brimming with tech. From the massive touchscreen to over-the-air updates, the tech is one of the main attractions for potential buyers. However, the system can be overwhelming for those not as tech-savvy.

Infotainment

The 17-inch display controls everything from navigation to climate settings to media playback. It’s crisp, responsive, and continuously updated thanks to Tesla’s software updates. The downside? No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. While Tesla’s own system is robust, many drivers miss the integration of these popular smartphone interfaces.

Over-The-Air Updates

Tesla's over-the-air (OTA) updates are a game-changer. They allow the company to roll out improvements, new features, and even bug fixes without the need for a dealership visit. This is a major selling point, but it also means you're somewhat reliant on Tesla’s schedule for updates. If there's a feature you’re waiting for, you might be in for a wait.

Alex Collantes appreciates the OTA updates, saying: "I love that Tesla keeps making the car better without me having to do anything. It's like getting a new feature every few months. But it would be nice if they rolled out updates a little faster."

Battery and Charging

The heart of the 2018 Tesla Model X is its battery. Available in 75 kWh and 100 kWh variants, the Model X offers impressive range, but as with any EV, there are pros and cons.

Range and Efficiency

The 100D variant offers up to 295 miles of range, while the 75D comes in at around 237 miles. For most people, this is more than enough for daily driving, but as mentioned earlier, aggressive driving or cold weather can lower this range significantly.

Tesla’s Supercharger network is extensive, but it’s not as ubiquitous as gas stations. While Tesla continues to expand the network, planning long road trips can still be a challenge in certain areas. Home charging remains the most convenient option, but not everyone has easy access to a charger, especially those living in apartments or condos.

Charging Time

Charging time depends on where you charge. Using a Supercharger, you can get up to 170 miles of range in about 30 minutes, but a full charge at home with a Level 2 charger can take up to 12 hours. This isn’t a huge issue if you’re charging overnight, but it can be a hassle if you’re in a hurry and don’t have access to a Supercharger.

Pros and Cons

Let’s break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Tesla Model X to help you decide if it’s the right electric SUV for you.

Pros

• Impressive Acceleration: 0-60 mph in as little as 2.9 seconds.
• Large Range: Up to 295 miles on a single charge with the 100D variant.
• Falcon-Wing Doors: Unique and practical for tight parking spaces.
• Advanced Tech: Massive touchscreen and frequent OTA updates.
• Safety: Top ratings in crash tests and an array of driver-assistance features.

Cons

• Expensive: The Model X is one of the more expensive electric SUVs on the market.
• Falcon-Wing Doors: While cool, they can be impractical in low-clearance areas.
• Stiff Ride: The air suspension is great, but can feel stiff on uneven surfaces.
• No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Tesla’s system is solid, but many drivers miss these popular interfaces.
• Range Anxiety: While the range is good, it can drop quickly with aggressive driving or cold weather.

Final Thoughts

The 2018 Tesla Model X is a game-changer in the electric vehicle market. Its futuristic design, powerful acceleration, and cutting-edge tech make it an exciting option for those looking to transition to an EV. However, it’s not without its flaws. The falcon-wing doors, while unique, can be a bit gimmicky, and the reliance on touch controls can frustrate those who prefer traditional physical buttons.

Overall, the Model X offers an incredible blend of performance, technology, and sustainability, but potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons before committing to this high-tech SUV.