Tesla Launches New Model: Here’s an overview of Tesla’s June 13, 2025, launch of their refreshed Model S and Model X:
🆕 What’s New?
1. Mild exterior and tech tweaks
-
Front bumper camera installed to align with the Cybertruck and refreshed Model Y.
-
Subtle front fascia updates (spoilers, diffuser) for enhanced high-speed stability and a slightly sportier look on Plaid versions,
-
The new Frost Blue paint color is available.
-
Updated wheel options: 19″ Magnetite on Model S, Perihelix on Model X; optional Velarium/Machina wheels offer range vs. styling trade‑offs.
2. Quieter and smoother ride
-
Improved wind and road noise reduction thanks to acoustic glass and better sound cancellation technology.
-
Suspension upgrades with new bushings for a more refined ride feel.
3. Enhanced interior ambiance and utility
-
Dynamic ambient LED lighting is added along the dash and door panels, featuring unique animations upon entry.
-
Model X gains ~2.5 ft³ of extra third-row passenger/cargo space.
4. Range and performance updates
-
Model S Long Range now achieves an EPA-estimated 410 miles (5 miles increase with 19″ wheels).
-
Model X Long Range sees about a 23-mile bump, from 329 to approximately 352 miles.
-
These gains are largely due to aerodynamic improvements from new wheels and bumpers.
5. Hardware and tech status
-
Keeps existing FSD HW4 and MCU3 infotainment; no new steer-by-wire or 800V systems (as introduced in the Cybertruck).
-
Yoke steering wheel is now only available on the Plaid trims as a $1,000 option — base models revert to the wheel.
📈 Price & Weight Changes
-
Price increase: +$4,500 to +$5,000 across all trims:
-
Model S Long Range: $84,990.
-
Model S Plaid: $99,990.
-
Model X Long Range: $89,990.
-
Model X Plaid: $104,990.
-
-
Added weight:
-
Model S Plaid +26 lb; top speed reduced from 200 mph to 149 mph.
-
Model X Plaid +183 lb (per Verge) or +186 lb (per BI), with top speed unchanged.
-
📊 What’s Driving This Refresh?
Tesla’s strategy appears to be focused on incremental refinement—boosting comfort, range, and efficiency—while increasing prices. However, critics point out that it lacks major technological upgrades (e.g., steer‑by‑wire, 800V systems, new AI hardware). Amid slumping premium EV sales—Model S/X/Cybertruck deliveries totaled just ~12,881 units in Q1 2025—some expected more transformative changes.
✅ Summary
-
Exterior: Minor styling refreshes—new cameras, bumpers, paint, wheels.
-
Ride comfort: Noticeably quieter cabin, smoother suspension.
-
Range: Slight improvements (Model S +5 mi; X +23 mi).
-
Interior upgrades: Ambient lighting and more space in X.
-
Price/weight: $5k higher; Plaid trims are heavier, with reduced top speed on Model S.
-
Tech: No new under-the-hood breakthroughs—still HW4 FSD, no steer‑by‑wire or 800V.
-
Steering wheel: Yoke is now a Plaid-only option.
📝 Summary
Tesla’s latest Model S/X refresh offers incremental comfort, range, and visual upgrades, but stops short of delivering the next-gen tech evolution many expected. With stiffer competition and softening demand in the luxury EV market, these updates might help retain loyal buyers, but leave open questions about Tesla’s path forward.



