Categrory: Equipment

A comprehensive review from the UK of the seven-seat Tesla Model X, for the definitive verdict on whether this is the family car for you.

Approach the car with the keyless entry, however, and the pop-out door handles hint at its Silicon Valley origins. Or maybe Broadway. That’s because there is a histrionic level of drama to how the rear doors on this large SUV open. You’ll either love them or hate them, but your kids will think they’re going to school in a supercar. Regardless, the so-called ‘falcon doors’ raise and fall like a Mercedes Gullwing and thanks to multiple cameras and motion sensors, they’re able to constantly adjust the angle at which they open or close in case there’s a car or obstacle in the way.

Visibility is excellent, thanks to a supersized windscreen that extends above and behind the front seat occupants, as is access, the falcon doors scalloping a significant portion of the roof away when unfurling. All versions of the Model X feature motorised front and rear doors, meaning they can be closed or opened at the press of a keyfob or swipe of a touchscreen. You’d need a £250k Rolls-Royce Phantom to find that kind of functionality elsewhere.

Technology & Connectivity 10/10

Then there’s Tesla’s optional Enhanced AutoPilot (£4,700), more accurately described as a co-pilot, that can assist the driver on certain roads using multiple cameras, ultrasonic sensors and radar. Tesla’s smart in how it updates its cars as well. Where some manufacturers require you to visit a dealer to update software bits, Tesla provides those same updates ‘over the air’. It’s entirely feasible to wake up one morning and your car is actually better than it was the day before.

Safety Features 9/10