Tesla’s Controversial Model S/X Refresh: Heavier, Pricier, and Drawing Fan Fury
Tesla’s latest update to its flagship Model S and X has sparked outrage among EV enthusiasts, with critics slamming the revisions as underwhelming for vehicles that now cost $5,000 more while offering fewer performance thrills. The 2026 refresh—which adds ambient lighting and noise reduction but omits cutting-edge tech—has become a lightning rod for frustration about Tesla’s premium EV strategy.
What’s Changed (And Why Fans Are Mad)
The updates focus primarily on comfort rather than innovation:
- New suspension bushings for smoother rides
- Enhanced noise cancellation and reduced cabin noise
- RGB ambient lighting throughout cabin
- Aerodynamic tweaks and new Frost Blue paint option
- Added cargo space in Model X (now 94.5 cu ft)
Missing from the update:
❌ 800-volt architecture (used in Cybertruck/Rivian/Lucid)
❌ Rear-wheel steering or steer-by-wire
❌ Performance gains (Plaid models now have lower top speeds)
The Backlash Breakdown
Enthusiasts erupted on Tesla’s X announcement post:
“No steer by wire. No 800V. No additional power. You’re falling behind.”
“Go look at what Rivian/Lucid are doing. This isn’t competitive.”
Key complaints focus on:
- Increased weight (Model X Plaid up 186 lbs)
- Slower specs (Model S Plaid top speed drops from 200mph to 149mph)
- $5,000 price hikes across all trims
The New Numbers
| Model | Price (+$5k) | Range Change | Top Speed Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model S AWD | $86,630 | 410 mi (no change) | – |
| Model S Plaid | $101,630 | +20 mi (368 total) | 200mph → 149mph |
| Model X AWD | $91,630 | +38 mi (352 total) | – |
| Model X Plaid | $106,630 | +21 mi (335 total) | No change |
Why Tesla Didn’t Go Bigger
The muted refresh reflects stark sales realities:
- Model S/X deliveries cratered to <85,000 units in 2025 (vs. 1.4M Model 3/Y)
- Both models now grouped with Cybertruck/Semi as “Other Vehicles” in reports
- Development resources clearly shifted to high-volume models
The Bottom Line
While the quieter cabins and mood lighting may appeal to luxury buyers, the update feels like a placeholder rather than the revolution Tesla fans expected. With rivals like Lucid and Rivian pushing boundaries on performance and tech, these incremental changes suggest Tesla’s heart—and R&D budget—now lies elsewhere.
Available now in the U.S., the refreshed Models S/X seem destined to remain niche players in Tesla’s lineup—perfectly competent EVs that no longer represent the cutting edge.