2018 Tesla Model X Price – The Best Electric SUV Money Can Buy
When you think of electric SUVs, it's hard not to think about the 2018 Tesla Model X. It's a game-changer in the EV world. If you’re looking to enter the electric car market with an SUV, the 2018 Tesla Model X could be your dream ride. But what does it actually cost? What are the pros and cons of owning one? Here we’ll break it down with real-life examples, a personal story from Alex Collantes, and a closer look at the prices of different trims.
Why Choose the Tesla Model X?
The Tesla Model X is not just another electric car; it’s one of the most innovative SUVs of its time. If you're already familiar with Tesla's sedan offerings like the Model S, the Model X will feel both familiar and futuristic. Here's why people love it:
Performance and Power
Tesla's known for its electric performance. The 2018 Model X comes with two electric motors, one for each axle, giving it all-wheel drive as standard. This means impressive handling, fast acceleration, and an effortless driving experience. Even for an SUV, the Model X can hit 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, which is pretty fast for a car its size.
- Acceleration – The "Standard" Model X trim gets up to 295 miles of range. It may not be the fastest electric car on the road, but for an SUV, it’s unmatched in its class.
- Ludicrous Mode – If speed is your thing, go for the P100D model, with Tesla's Ludicrous Mode, which can push it from 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds.
- Falcon Wing Doors – Let’s not forget the cool falcon wing doors! They’re not just stylish but functional, especially in tight parking spaces.
Trims and Prices for the 2018 Tesla Model X
The 2018 Model X comes in three main trims: 75D, 100D, and P100D. Here’s a breakdown of the prices and the key features of each.
Tesla Model X 75D
The 75D was the base model for 2018. It was designed for people who wanted to get into a Tesla SUV without breaking the bank. This model came with a 75kWh battery pack and a range of 237 miles on a single charge.
- Starting Price: Around $79,500 when new
- Power: Dual electric motors, with a combined power output of 518 hp
- 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds
Potential drawback: The range on the 75D might feel a bit limited for long road trips compared to the higher trims. Plus, the acceleration isn't as thrilling as other Tesla models.
Tesla Model X 100D
This is where things start to get interesting. The 100D offers a 100kWh battery pack, which increases the range to an impressive 295 miles. This makes it much more suitable for road trips, and overall it’s the model most Tesla buyers preferred at the time.
- Starting Price: Around $96,500
- Power: Dual electric motors producing 518 hp
- 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds
Potential drawback: While it improves range, the price jump from the 75D may not feel justified for those who mostly drive in the city or on shorter commutes.
Tesla Model X P100D
The P100D is the most powerful and performance-focused version of the Model X. If you’re willing to splurge, this is the top trim that gives you the ultimate Tesla experience. It comes with the Ludicrous Mode, so it’s not just fast for an SUV, it’s fast period.
- Starting Price: Around $140,000
- Power: 603 hp from dual electric motors
- 0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds
Potential drawback: The P100D is the most expensive option by far. The added power and acceleration might be overkill for the everyday driver.
Pros and Cons of Buying a 2018 Tesla Model X
The Pros
- Performance: Every Model X offers impressive performance, regardless of the trim you choose.
- Electric Range: Even the lower-end 75D offers more than 230 miles, which is plenty for most daily drives. The 100D and P100D push this even further, making road trips less stressful.
- Innovative Features: From Autopilot to the Falcon Wing doors, the Tesla Model X is packed with cutting-edge technology.
The Cons
- Price: While the Model X offers a lot, it’s also expensive. The base price is higher than some traditional gas-powered SUVs, and the P100D's six-figure price tag is steep.
- Maintenance Costs: While Tesla’s electric motors are known for being low-maintenance, some repairs can be expensive, especially as the car ages.
- Interior Quality: Some owners have reported that the interior build quality isn't quite up to par with other luxury SUVs, with a few complaining about minor fit-and-finish issues.
Inside the 2018 Tesla Model X
Space and Comfort
The Model X is spacious. You can fit up to 7 passengers depending on the seat configuration you choose. It's ideal for families who need a roomy vehicle but still want something environmentally friendly. With the third-row option, you get more versatility for passengers or cargo space.
Tech Features
Tesla’s infotainment system was among the most advanced in 2018, featuring a 17-inch touchscreen that controls nearly everything in the car, from navigation to climate control. The Autopilot feature adds a semi-autonomous driving experience, making long commutes or road trips much less exhausting.
- Advanced Safety Features: Autopilot, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control
- Entertainment: Streaming services, full integration with mobile apps
Charging Options for the Tesla Model X
Tesla has built an extensive Supercharger network, so finding a place to charge your Model X is easier than ever. On a Supercharger, you can get up to 170 miles of range in just 30 minutes. For home charging, most owners install a 240-volt charger which can fully recharge the battery overnight.
Potential drawback: Some might find that charging times, even on a Supercharger, are still longer than filling up a traditional gas tank. Home charging setups can also add to the initial cost.
What Does Alex Collantes Think?
Alex Collantes, an avid Tesla fan and long-time owner, has shared his thoughts on the 2018 Tesla Model X. “It’s the best SUV I’ve ever driven. The performance is out of this world, and the electric range makes me feel like I can take it anywhere without worrying about charging all the time. But yeah, the price is definitely something to consider if you're tight on budget. Still, the Falcon Wing doors – they’re a showstopper! My kids love them.”
Alex’s Experience:
Alex mentioned that the Autopilot feature made his daily commute much easier, particularly on the highway. However, he also noted that he had experienced a couple of glitches with the system early on, requiring software updates to fix them. Despite this, he said, “I wouldn’t go back to a regular SUV – not after this.”
Should You Buy a 2018 Tesla Model X?
If you're considering the 2018 Tesla Model X, here are a few things to think about:
Who is it for?
- Families looking for a large, versatile electric SUV
- Tech lovers who want to experience the latest innovations in the automotive world
- Performance enthusiasts who want the power of Ludicrous Mode in an SUV
- Eco-conscious buyers who want to reduce their carbon footprint
Who might want to think twice?
- Buyers on a tight budget (especially with the high cost of the P100D)
- Those who need more than 300 miles of range for long trips without frequent stops
- People who aren't ready to commit to electric infrastructure in their area
Conclusion
The 2018 Tesla Model X is not just an SUV – it's a statement. It offers incredible performance, cutting-edge tech, and a design that will turn heads. Whether you’re buying it for the range, the Falcon Wing doors, or the bragging rights of having the quickest SUV on the market, the Model X is hard to beat. But with its high price tag, some minor interior quality issues, and the evolving nature of Tesla’s tech, it may not be for everyone. Still, for those who are sold on electric driving, it's one of the best options available.
Are you ready to make the switch to electric? The 2018 Tesla Model X might just be the SUV you’ve been waiting for.