The Tesla Model X is a large electric midsize SUV that was released in 2016.
It offers impressive performance, extremely quick acceleration and long distances between charges.
It has however been criticized for its stark interior and below-average build quality.
In this article, we’ll examine its best and worst years.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Tesla Model X Are:
The best Tesla Model X model years are 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. The worst model years of the Model X are 2018, 2017, and 2016. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Tesla Model X?
The Model X is a head-turning feat of modern engineering, below are its best years.
2022 Tesla Model X
The 2022 Model X is a top pick for those looking for one of the most desirable luxury SUVs.
Although there were no notable changes for 2022 Tesla did make some minor tweaks.
For starters, the Long Range trim was renamed to Model X, and its estimated range dropped from 363 miles to 351 miles, per charge.
The top-spec Plaid trim level also received an updated range projection, which is now 335 miles per charge compared to 340 miles.
For 2022 the controversial F1-style yoke steering wheel carries over.
- Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- Car and Driver: 6.5 / 10
2022 Model X, Edmunds review:
“The Model X is roomy; In a 5-seater we can have two midsized dogs in boxes in the trunk; two teenagers in the back and everyone’s stuff for a winter vacation. It’s SO great for trips. The car is fun, space-age and only slightly more expensive than the S…”
2021 Tesla Model X
The 2021 Model X is another top pick with fast-charging capability and pulse-raising acceleration.
For 2021 the Model X received a number of updates, much to the approval of Tesla enthusiasts.
A styling refresh was implemented for both the inside and outside.
For the exterior, cleaner and sharper body lines were added to give a more modern, sleek appearance.
For the interior, the model came with a revamped infotainment screen, a new dash and an all-new sporty F1-style square steering wheel (which some considered to be a polarizing feature).
The Long Range and Plaid models make up the 2021 lineup.
- Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- Car and Driver: 6.5 / 10
2021 Model X, Edmunds review:
“The review is based on almost 1000 miles on this SUV. Without Tesla world would not have known how good electric car technology can be. Instant acceleration that would leave a Ferrari in shock, smooth quiet ride, outstanding autopilot, unbreakable motor and elimination of annoying car salesmen are some of the finest features of owning a Tesla…”
2020 Tesla Model X
The 2020 Model X did not receive any significant updates but this model has proven to be less problematic than many of the earlier renditions.
On paper, the 2020 Model X offers over 300 miles of electric range and comes equipped with features such as folding falcon-wing doors as well as full access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
The quick charging of the Model X is another one of its big appeals.
- Edmunds: 3.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- Car and Driver: 6.5 / 10
2020 Model X, Edmunds review:
“Model X is unique. Either you like be it or hate it. To me, it is like buying your first iPhone. You won’t find the key pad. Things may be working today but won’t tomorrow due to the latest patch. You won’t be happy if you think you are buying a car. You will be very happy if you want to buy a technology. It is a toy that can be driven and it is fun.”
2019 Tesla Model X
If you’re looking for a slightly older Model X, the 2019 iteration is another good choice.
For 2019 a few changes were made.
A simplified naming system was introduced, with the lineup consisting of Model X Standard, Long Range and Performance.
In addition, autopilot was made standard for this model year.
- Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- Car and Driver: 10 / 10
2019 Model X, Edmunds review:
“Someone in March had written a review about being 6’4 and not fitting. I’m 6’8 and fit extremely well, room to spare! Found it very comfortable and roomy. For the taller folk, like myself, you have to drop the seat a bit as you do in every vehicle when that’s an option. Zero fit and finish issues…”
Consumer Scores For Best Tesla Model X Years
Below is a table that presents all the consumer ratings of the best Model X model years from reputable vehicle websites:
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | Car and Driver Rating |
| 2022 Tesla Model X | 3.1 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 6.5 / 10 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X | 3.1 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 6.5 / 10 |
| 2020 Tesla Model X | 3.4 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 6.5 / 10 |
| 2019 Tesla Model X | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 10 / 10 |
Related: 6 Most Common Problems With Tesla Model X (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Tesla Model X?
The Model X has had a few bumps in the road, listed below are the years to be a bit more cautious of.
2018 Tesla Model X
The 2018 Model X had significant and frequent issues with its suspension system.
Numerous owners have reported vigorous shaking, vibrating and loud noises coming from the suspension.
One owner had this to say:
“Under normal acceleration, [the car shakes and vibrates] violently. This is a known design flaw…”
Other owners complained that the infotainment screen would go blank whilst driving.
Here’s one owner’s account:
“Touch screen and main display unit and controller problems. It goes black very often, it becomes slow many times, restart takes a long time, sometimes Bluetooth stop working for all devices, no sounds chimes, no audio sometimes, the blank screen stays for long time sometimes during the drive.”
The 2018 Model X had a total of 5 recalls and 150 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Suspension issues
- Display goes blank
2017 Tesla Model X
Electronics was the biggest problem category for the 2017 Model X.
Many owners reported that the MCU failed (Media Control Unit – touchscreen computer that controls non-essential vehicle functions like HVAC, navigation maps, and entertainment).
Others faced intermittent warning messages popping up for no apparent reason, leading to confusion as to the safety of the vehicle.
Other owners had issues with the headlights not working:
“Headlights will not work. Due to the vehicle not having a method of turning on headlights without access to a properly working media control unit which happens to be of all touch screen functionality a blackout of the screen will cause the driver to have no other access to the headlights or other vital safety features. This issue has been ongoing with Tesla for a long period of time and it continuously put the occupants of the vehicle at risk for injury both severe or fatal…”
The 2017 Model X had a total of 6 recalls and 261 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- MCU failure
- Warning messages for no reason
- Headlight failure
- Suspension issues
2016 Tesla Model X
The 2016 Model X was the first Model X ever released, and unsurprisingly it came with a few teething issues.
Statistically, the 2016 Model X is the most problematic model to date.
The most common issue reported was the failure of the air suspension.
Owners also reported a wide range of electrical glitches, most commonly the screen going blank.
Another widely reported issue was fit and finish problems – owners reported bolts coming loose and plastic covers falling off.
The 2016 Model X had a total of 7 recalls and 386 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Suspension failure
- Electrical glitches
- Screen went blank
- Fit and finish issues
Related: 11 Common Problems With the Tesla Model X (Solution Guide)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
Listed below are the number of reported complaints and problems for each model year of the Model X.
| Model Year | Recalls (Cars.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) |
| 2022 Tesla Model X | 10 | 45 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X | 12 | 23 |
| 2020 Tesla Model X | 5 | 115 |
| 2019 Tesla Model X | 4 | 86 |
| 2018 Tesla Model X | 5 | 150 |
| 2017 Tesla Model X | 6 | 261 |
| 2016 Tesla Model X | 7 | 386 |
What Problems Do Tesla Model X Have?
- Suspension failure
- Electrical glitches
- Screen went blank
- Fit and finish issues
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Tesla Model X?
As far as premium SUVs go, the Model X is definitely one of the more attractive models although it faces some stiff competition.
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPGe) |
| BMW iX | 8.9 | $84,100 – $108,900 | City: 76 – 86 /Highway: 80 – 87 |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 8.8 | NA | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Cadillac Lyriq | 8.6 | $61,795 – $63,795 | City: 97 /Highway: 82 |
| Mercedes-Benz EQB | 8.4 | $54,500 – $58,050 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Tesla Model X | 8.4 | $120,990 – $138,990 | City: 103 – 107 /Highway: 93 – 97 |
| Audi e-tron | 8.2 | $65,900 – $69,100 | City: 76 – 78 /Highway: 77 – 78 |
| Tesla Model Y | 8.1 | $65,990 – $69,990 | City: 115 – 127 /Highway: 106 – 117 |
| Jaguar I-Pace | 7.8 | $71,300 | City: 80 /Highway: 72 |
| Volvo C40 Recharge | 7.8 | $58,750 | City: 94 /Highway: 80 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: How Long Does the Tesla Model X Last? (14 Important Facts)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-x
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-x
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Tesla/Model_X/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/tesla/modelx/
https://www.edmunds.com/tesla/model-x/
https://www.kbb.com/tesla/model-x/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2022/tesla/model-x
https://www.cars.com/research/tesla-model_x/recalls/
