The improved Tesla Model S and X are returning to Europe. Not interested
- Tesla is restarting the Model S and X in Europe after removing them from the configurator in July.
- Both models get a number of upgrades, but cost the same as before their sales hiatus in euros.
- The S Plaid gets the most upgrades, including exterior design revisions that improve its aerodynamic performance.
The Tesla Model S is one of the most important modern electric cars and has been sold almost non-stop since 2009. Sales and interest around it and sales numbers of the Model manufacturer. That’s why we weren’t surprised when they were removed from the online configurator in Europe in July and we were pretty sure they weren’t coming back.
However, Tesla did not plan to end production of the models. The break in their availability on the continent was due to Tesla preparing the revived models for Europe, and now you can order them again here. They feature the same updates as the refreshed S and X available in the United States, which is to be expected since both are still built there.
The Model S achieves a higher WLTP range of up to 462 miles (744 km), making it the longest-range Tesla you can buy today. The same model is rated at 410 miles (659 km) EPA, which is closer to what you can expect in real-world driving conditions.
The front end of the 1,020-horsepower S Plaid gets a slight tweak with a redesigned bumper that Tesla says helps with high-speed stability, as well as a redesigned diffuser and rear carbon spoiler. There are also new wheel designs for the Long Range and Plaid variants, both of which help increase aerodynamics and, combined with the new low rolling resistance tires, are a big part of why it now has more range.
The Model X SUV also gets new wheel designs, but the rest of the exterior remains untouched. The claimed WLTP range rises to 403 miles (649 km), and Tesla says it has made the third row of seats more spacious and also improved cargo space. Dynamic ambient lighting now extends throughout the cabin of both models, and you can drag the cursor across the spectrum to select the exact shade you want.
Tesla says they now ride smoother, thanks to a redesigned and improved air suspension with new bushings, which also improves their dynamic capabilities. The Model S Plaid is listed as having received “new stabilization components for better handling at high speeds,” but Tesla doesn’t say exactly what’s changed.
Traveling aboard the revised models should be an even quieter experience thanks to improved sound insulation and sound-absorbing materials. Wind and road noise levels should now be lower thanks to improved active noise cancellation.
In terms of safety, both cars get the new front-facing camera that was also added to the Model 3 and Y, as well as blind spot monitoring and adaptive headlights. But they still don’t have radar. Starting prices for the Long Range versions of the Model S are still €109,990 ($127,500) and for the Model X €114,990 ($133,000). The Plaids will set you back €119,990 ($139,000) and €124,990 ($145,000).
Both models may look the same, but Tesla says it’s done a lot of work under the skin to make them better cars. They were already very quiet and capable machines, but now they promised to be even better. Tesla doesn’t expect to sell too many anyway, though the update may bring renewed interest from buyers who now have plenty of alternatives. We’ll see how much better they are when we test them on European roads later this year.