Model S and X Tesla Updates - Progress Pursuit or Crushing Disappointment?
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Tesla's Updated Premium Models: What's New?
Tesla has recently rolled out updated versions of its luxury flagships, the Model S and Model X. The revamped vehicles showcase improved tech specs and features, but the price tag has also seen a significant bump. Despite the increased cost, the impact on sluggish sales might be minimal, mirroring the updates to the Model 3 and Y - where the main focus remains the robotaxi.
What's Changed, and How Much Will It Cost?
Beginning with the 2026 models, the pricing for all trim levels is now higher by $5,000:
- Model S Long Range: Now priced at $84,990 (up from $79,990)
- Model S Plaid: Now priced at $99,990 (up from $94,990)
- Model X Long Range: Now priced at $89,990 (up from $84,990)
- Model X Plaid: Now priced at $104,990 (up from $99,990)
Key Enhancements
The updates incorporate new Frost Blue paint ($2,500), extended range (up to 410 miles for Model S Long Range), enhanced noise reduction and Active Noise Cancellation for quieter interiors, improved aerodynamics, a front fascia camera boosting visibility, dynamic ambient lighting, a smoother ride due to new bushings and suspension design, adaptive driving beams, Model S Plaid-specific exterior styling optimized for high-speed stability, and Model X-specific updates offering more space for third-row occupants and cargo.
Sales Impact Compared to Model 3 and Model Y
While the Model S and X updates are more minor, they continue to represent Tesla's premium luxury offerings, with production quantities kept relatively low. Compared to the more affordable and mass-market Model 3 and Model Y, which benefit from regular tech upgrades, some potential buyers might lean towards these vehicles due to their feature-rich profiles and lower price points.
The Future Focus: Robotaxis
It appears that the recent updates for the Model S and X do not capitalize on advances in robotaxi or autonomous driving technology. The emphasis lies in comfort, style, and minor feature enhancements rather than autonomous features or robotaxi capabilities. Thus far, Tesla has yet to announce any robotaxi features for the refreshed Model S or X, with innovations likely reserved for future models or platforms.
Summary Table: Price and Key Changes
| Model | 2025 Price | 2026 Price | Notable Updates ||------------------|------------|------------|------------------------------------------------|| S Long Range | $79,990 | $84,990 | 410-mile range, noise reduction, new camera || S Plaid | $94,990 | $99,990 | Styling, ride, dynamic lighting, new camera || X Long Range | $84,990 | $89,990 | More space, noise reduction, new camera || X Plaid | $99,990 | $104,990 | More space, noise reduction, new camera |
Conclusion
The latest Model S and X releases offer incremental improvements and a higher price tag, but they fail to deliver the groundbreaking innovation that Tesla enthusiasts have come to expect. No robotaxi features have been introduced, with the broader market potentially favoring the value and feature richness offered by the Model 3 and Y.
[1] Tesla Model S and Model X Updated for 2026: Price, Key Changes and New Features (carscoops.com)[2] What's new with the 2026 Tesla Model S and Model X (motor1.com)
- The automotive industry is witnessing a shift towards electric-vehicles, with Tesla's updated Model S and Model X showcasing this trend by offering extended range and improved tech features.
- The finance sector is closely monitoring the impact of these price increases on sales, as Tesla's Model S and Model X now cost $5,000 more than their 2025 counterparts.
- Technology advancements in transportation, such as autonomous driving and robotaxis, are noticeably absent from the updated Model S and X, indicating a priority towards lifestyle and luxury features in these vehicles.
- Despite these updated premium models failing to match up to Tesla's usual innovative standards, they might appeal to consumers in the lifestyle and automotive sectors due to their improved comfort, style, and feature-rich profiles.
