Tesla Model X Plaid Just Got A Lot More Expensive

It’s hard to keep track of Tesla pricing with all the changes that have happened in the last few months, the latest of which pertains to the Model X Plaid, now $5,000 more expensive than before, as first reported by Reuters.

The electric SUV is now priced at $94,990, which is still decent value considering the performance and luxury that is up for grabs. Previously, the Model X Plaid sported a price tag of $89,990, a far cry from its MSRP that once exceeded $130,000.

Oddly, the range-topper is the only Tesla to be smacked with an increase. The standard Model X still retails for $79,990, which is important, as buyers can take advantage of the $7,500 EV tax credit. The Model S Plaid retains the $89,990 MSRP, but, knowing Tesla, this could change at a moment’s notice.

Tesla has given no reason for the $5,000 increase, but we’re guessing the electric vehicle maker realized it had made the Plaid derivative too cheap. Even at $94,990, the powerful Model X is still a great deal.

Buyers get one of the quickest accelerating SUVs on the market, courtesy of three electric motors that produce 1,020 horsepower. This muscle is channeled to all four wheels, allowing the hefty Model X to reach 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. When equipped with 20-inch Cyberstream wheels, the top speed is limited to 149 mph. Splurge on the $5,500 22-inch Turbine wheels, and that figure increases to 163 mph. There is a price to pay, though, as the range is reduced from 333 to 311 miles, but at least Plaid customers can choose from all five colors at no extra cost.

The Tow Package is also included as standard. Aside from the 22-inch wheels, other options include Black/White or Cream upholstery ($2,000), the yoke steering wheel ($1,000), Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000), and Full Self-Driving Capability ($12,000). A fully optioned Model X Plaid will set buyers back $115,490, which is still cheaper than some top-spec German rivals, like the Merc AMG EQE.

Myriad changes have taken place throughout the Tesla lineup this year. The EV manufacturer introduced the new Standard Range derivatives of the Model S and Model X in mid-August, but less than a month later, it inexplicably removed these models from its lineup.

Elsewhere, Tesla recently reintroduced the rear-wheel drive Model Y to the United States, offering consumers an affordable alternative to the many electric crossovers on the market.