Tesla Refines Aerodynamics, Updates Tech for Model S, Model X
After launching a revised Model Y at the beginning of 2025, Tesla promised its original product duo, the Model S sedan and Model X SUV, would be next. The beleaguered automaker, which has seen sales drop by nearly 50% in some markets, is now delivering on that promise.
Related: Tesla Model S, Model X to Receive Updates ‘Later This Year’
Aerodynamic Improvements
While not as immediately noticeable as the refreshed Model Y’s styling tweaks, the S and X wear new wheel designs. Along with fine-tuned aerodynamics, Tesla says the wheels increase the maximum range of the Model S to 410 miles, the highest figure yet achieved by a Tesla. The company also credits aerodynamic work for the Model S Plaid’s improved high-speed stability. The sedan sports a unique front bumper, an extended carbon-fiber lip spoiler on the trunk lid and an enlarged rear diffuser.
Power output from the electric motors of each vehicle is unchanged, with the dual-motor all-wheel-drive variants generating 670 horsepower and the tri-motor Model S and Model X Plaid making a claimed 1,020 hp.
Comfort and Tech Updates
A refined aerodynamic profile helps cut interior sound levels, too. Tesla says there’s less wind and road noise inside the vehicles, with enhanced active noise cancellation further helping increase cabin serenity. Occupants also benefit from a new suspension design with upgraded bushings that are said to make the ride even smoother. In the Model X, Tesla says it has made more space for third-row occupants and cargo even though the external size and shape are basically unchanged.
Tesla being at least as much a tech company as it is an automaker, there are a few upgrades to the vehicles’ onboard electronics, as well. A new camera mounted in the front bumper is said to improve visibility, likely refining the operation of the Autopilot and Full Self-Driving semi-autonomous capabilities. Adaptive headlights are claimed to reduce glare for oncoming drivers, and new dynamic ambient lighting enables animations on the dash and in the doors when drivers enter the vehicle.
More From Cars.com:
Release Date and Pricing
The updated Model S and Model X are on sale now. With these upgrades, Tesla is tacking an additional $5,000 onto the prices of its flagship offerings. Full pricing (including the $1,390 destination charge) is as follows:
Model S
- All-Wheel Drive: $86,380
- Plaid: $101,380
Model X
- All-Wheel Drive: $91,380
- Plaid: $106,380
Related Video:
Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.
