Tesla Model S and X side by side
features March 14, 2025

Tesla Model S and X Refresh: What to Expect

A detailed look at the upcoming changes to Tesla's flagship vehicles

By Jay Seem

Tesla’s Model S and Model X, the vehicles that helped establish the company as a luxury EV pioneer, are set for their most significant update since 2021. While these premium models may represent a smaller portion of Tesla’s sales compared to the Model 3 and Y, they remain crucial showcases for the company’s latest technology and innovations.

The Timing and Scope

According to Lars Moravy, Tesla’s Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, both flagship models will receive “some love” later this year, incorporating many of the advances introduced in the refreshed Model 3 and Model Y. This update comes at a critical time, as luxury EV competition intensifies with new entries from traditional premium manufacturers.

Expected Design Changes

Exterior Updates

  • New front and rear light bars, similar to the refreshed Model Y
  • Updated front fascia with improved aerodynamics
  • Refined bumper designs
  • New wheel options
  • Enhanced active aerodynamic elements

Interior Innovations

  • Larger central display, potentially matching the Cybertruck’s 18.5-inch screen
  • Ambient lighting improvements
  • Updated materials and trim options
  • Enhanced sound system
  • Improved rear passenger comfort features

Technical Advancements

Powertrain and Performance

  • Upgraded battery technology for improved range and charging
  • Enhanced motor efficiency
  • Updated thermal management system
  • Refined suspension tuning
  • Improved regenerative braking system

Technology Integration

  • Next-generation FSD (Full Self-Driving) hardware
  • 48V electrical system adoption
  • Advanced driver monitoring system
  • Improved processing power for infotainment
  • Enhanced connectivity features

The Significance of 48V

The transition to a 48V electrical system represents a major technical upgrade, offering several advantages:

  • More efficient power distribution
  • Support for advanced driver assistance features
  • Improved heating and cooling capabilities
  • Better integration with future Tesla technologies
  • Reduced weight from smaller wiring harnesses

Market Position and Strategy

While Tesla CEO Elon Musk has described the S and X as “niche products” continued primarily for “sentimental reasons,” these vehicles serve several important strategic purposes:

  1. Technology Showcase: Premium pricing allows Tesla to introduce cutting-edge features before scaling them to mass-market models

  2. Brand Image: The S and X maintain Tesla’s presence in the luxury segment, competing with traditional premium manufacturers

  3. Innovation Testing: These models often serve as platforms for testing new technologies before wider deployment

  4. Profit Margins: Despite lower volumes, the S and X typically offer higher profit margins per vehicle

Competition and Market Context

The refresh comes as several competitors launch new premium electric vehicles:

  • Mercedes EQS and EQS SUV
  • BMW i7 and iX
  • Lucid Air
  • Porsche Taycan

Tesla’s updates aim to maintain the S and X’s competitive edge in:

  • Range
  • Performance
  • Technology
  • Overall value proposition

Expected Performance Metrics

Model S Projections

  • Range: Up to 425 miles (Dual Motor)
  • 0-60 mph: As low as 1.99 seconds (Plaid)
  • Top Speed: Up to 200+ mph
  • Charging: 250+ kW peak rate

Model X Projections

  • Range: Up to 375 miles (Dual Motor)
  • 0-60 mph: As low as 2.5 seconds (Plaid)
  • Top Speed: 165 mph
  • Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs

Production and Availability

The refreshed models are expected to begin production in late 2025, with initial deliveries starting in:

  • North America: Q4 2025
  • Europe: Q1 2026
  • Asia-Pacific: Q1-Q2 2026

Price Positioning

While official pricing hasn’t been announced, industry analysts expect:

  • Model S: Starting from $85,000 - $95,000
  • Model S Plaid: $115,000 - $125,000
  • Model X: Starting from $95,000 - $105,000
  • Model X Plaid: $125,000 - $135,000

Future Implications

The refresh of the Model S and X provides insights into Tesla’s broader strategy:

  1. Premium Market Commitment: Despite focus on mass-market vehicles, Tesla maintains commitment to luxury segment

  2. Technology Pipeline: Updates preview features likely to appear in other Tesla models

  3. Manufacturing Evolution: New production techniques could influence future vehicle programs

  4. Market Positioning: Refined flagship models help maintain Tesla’s premium brand image

Conclusion

The upcoming refresh of the Model S and X represents Tesla’s commitment to maintaining its position in the premium EV segment while showcasing its latest technological capabilities. While these vehicles may represent a smaller portion of Tesla’s sales volume, they remain crucial to the company’s brand identity and innovation pipeline.

The updates appear carefully calculated to address competition from traditional luxury manufacturers while maintaining the unique attributes that have made these models successful. As Tesla continues its evolution from a premium EV manufacturer to a mass-market mobility company, the refreshed S and X will play an important role in bridging the gap between luxury and mainstream segments.