Tesla Model S / X Refresh Announced: New Interior, Faster Acceleration, Increased Range, More

The Tesla Model S just got its first major refresh since it arrived in 2012 with the new version beginning to ship this March.

The big changes include improved performance and range while a new interior design shakes things up a little.

Tesla says the new Model 3 will be able to reach 60mph in less than two seconds thanks to improvements to its drag coefficient. It also claims that the car is now the “fastest accelerating production car ever made.”

Inside, the famous large display is now in landscape mode, rather than portrait. And there’s a new screen behind the center console for those sat in the back as well.

Notably, the new refresh also includes a new Knight Rider-like steering wheel. That is, it isn’t a wheel at all but more a U-shape. It’s very futuristic and might not actually make it through to the shipping product. We’ll have to wait and see.

As for specifications and prices you’re looking to spend $79,990 for the “Long Range” dual-motor modelwith 412 miles of range.

The new “Plaid” powertrain can be had for $119,000, which may only do 390 miles, but gets you from 0-60Mph in under 2.00 seconds. If you want a bit more range but can’t compromise on that acceleration, The “Plaid+” model with a 520 miles range starts at $139,000.

That Plaid+ version is obviously the one that everyone will want, but with pricing well into the six-figure territory, how many will opt for it?

The Model X also got some love, with a new dashboard screen like the Model 3’s. A passenger screen is included, as is a crazy 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds.

The new Model X starts at $89,990, where you get a Long Range dual-motor which gives you a 360 miles range, a top and a 0-60Mph time of 3.8 seconds. Of course, like the Model S, Tesla is selling a version of a Model X with the Plaid powertrain for $119,000. This gives you a range of 340 miles but get from 0-60Mph in 2.5 seconds. Wowzers.

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