Tesla’s Model S and Model X, launched in 2012 and 2015 respectively, are the elder statesmen of the electric vehicle (EV) world. These flagship models sparked a revolution, proving EVs could be fast, luxurious, and practical. Yet, as competitors like Lucid, Rivian, and Porsche introduce cutting-edge technology, the S and X have begun to show their age. In June 2025, Tesla unveiled the 2026 Model S and Model X, delivering a modest refresh to keep these decade-old cars competitive. This article dives into the updates, their significance, and whether they’re enough to reinvigorate Tesla’s aging icons in a fiercely competitive luxury EV market.
A Legacy of Innovation
The Tesla Model S redefined the automotive landscape when it debuted in 2012. With a sleek design, blistering acceleration, and a range exceeding 400 miles by 2020, it set the benchmark for EVs. The Model X followed in 2015, introducing futuristic falcon-wing doors and a focus on family-friendly luxury. Both models were game-changers, helping Tesla transition from niche startup to global powerhouse. However, their last major updates—in 2016 and 2021 for the S, and 2021 for the X—left them lagging behind newer rivals. Sales have dwindled, with Tesla reporting only 85,133 units of “Other Models” (including S, X, Cybertruck, and Semi) in 2024, compared to 1.4 million Model 3 and Y deliveries.
Tesla’s VP of Engineering, Lars Moravy, hinted at a refresh in February 2025, promising “some love” for the S and X. Spy shots and leaks fueled speculation, but the reveal confirmed a conservative approach: no radical redesign, no next-gen battery tech, and no steer-by-wire or 800-volt architecture. Instead, Tesla opted for subtle enhancements to refine the driving experience while maintaining the core identity of these vehicles.
Exterior Updates: Subtle Styling Tweaks
The 2026 Model S and Model X retain their iconic silhouettes, with changes so subtle that casual observers might miss them. The most noticeable addition is a new Frost Blue Metallic paint option, a premium $2,500 multi-coat color that joins Diamond Black ($1,500) and existing shades like Stealth Grey, Pearl White, Ultra Red, and Lunar Silver. Frost Blue adds a fresh, vibrant look, standing out against the otherwise reserved palette.
Both models feature new wheel designs—19- and 21-inch options for the S and X, and 20-inch for the X Plaid—optimized for aerodynamics and range. A front bumper camera, similar to those on the Model Y and Cybertruck, enhances visibility and may support future Full Self-Driving (FSD) improvements, though Tesla hasn’t confirmed its role in unsupervised FSD or robotaxi applications. Adaptive driving beams improve nighttime visibility, aligning with modern safety standards. The Model S Plaid sports a slightly revised front fascia for high-speed stability, but the changes are minimal.
Critics argue these updates fall short of a true facelift. Speculative renderings by digital artists like Nikita Chuicko suggested bolder changes, such as split LED headlights and a full-width taillight bar inspired by the 2026 Model Y. Instead, Tesla prioritized continuity, preserving the S’s sleek profile and the X’s distinctive falcon-wing doors, which remain a polarizing feature due to their complexity and past reliability issues.
Interior Enhancements: Refinement Over Revolution
Inside, the 2026 Model S and X focus on comfort and ambiance. Dynamic ambient lighting, now standard across Tesla’s lineup, wraps around the cabin, extending from the dashboard to the doors and center console. A unique startup animation, customizable based on the selected ambient color, greets occupants with a glowing Tesla logo that spreads across the interior. While visually appealing, this feature can be disabled for those who prefer a minimalist experience.
Tesla claims the cabins are quieter, thanks to reduced wind and road noise, enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, and additional sound-dampening materials. These improvements address long-standing complaints about cabin noise, particularly in the S, and align with refinements seen in the updated Model 3 and Y. The Model X gains 2.5 cubic feet of cargo space (totaling 94.5 cu ft) and slightly more room for third-row passengers, making it marginally more practical for families.
The controversial yoke steering remains an option on Plaid variants for $1,000, despite Tesla reintroducing traditional turn-signal stalks on the Model Y due to customer demand. The 17-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital cluster, and 8-inch rear screen carry over unchanged, as do the 22-speaker audio system and minimalist interior design. While functional, the lack of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or SiriusXM continues to frustrate some buyers, especially at this price point.
Performance and Range: Incremental Gains
The 2026 Model S and X retain their existing powertrains, disappointing those hoping for a Plaid+ revival or new battery technology like the 4680 cells used in the Cybertruck. The Model S Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD) now boasts a record-breaking 410-mile EPA-estimated range, up from 405 miles, making it Tesla’s longest-range vehicle ever. The Model S Plaid achieves 368 miles, up from 359, though its top speed drops from 200 mph to 149 mph, likely due to aerodynamic tweaks or software limits.
The Model X AWD sees a significant range boost to 352 miles, up 38 miles, while the X Plaid reaches 335 miles, a 21-mile improvement. These gains stem from new suspension bushings, improved aerodynamics, and unspecified engineering tweaks, though the cars are slightly heavier—26 pounds more for the S Plaid—possibly due to added sound insulation. Performance remains unchanged: the S AWD hits 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds, the S Plaid in 1.99 seconds, the X AWD in 3.8 seconds, and the X Plaid in 2.5 seconds.
While impressive, these ranges trail the Lucid Air, which offers over 500 miles in its top trim and 420 miles in its base model, undercutting the S AWD by $15,000. Tesla’s decision to stick with 18650 battery cells, rather than adopting the 4680 cells or an 800-volt architecture, limits efficiency and charging speed compared to rivals.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Model S and X come with a $5,000 price hike across all trims, reflecting the updates and rising production costs. In the U.S., the Model S AWD starts at $86,630, and the S Plaid at $101,630. The Model X AWD begins at $91,630, with the X Plaid at $104,990. In Canada, prices are significantly higher, with the S AWD at CDN$133,990 and the X AWD at CDN$140,990. These increases have sparked backlash, with fans on X calling the updates “underwhelming” for the cost.
The refreshed models are available now in the U.S., with Canadian availability still unconfirmed. Tesla’s focus on minor tweaks suggests a strategic shift, prioritizing newer models like the Cybertruck and upcoming affordable EV over its flagships.
Competitive Landscape
The luxury EV segment is more crowded than ever. The Lucid Air offers superior range and luxury at a lower price, while the Rivian R1S and BMW iX appeal to SUV buyers with modern tech and premium interiors. The Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT challenge the Model S Plaid’s performance, boasting advanced 800-volt systems and sharper handling. Tesla’s Autopilot and FSD remain industry leaders, but competitors are closing the gap, especially with partnerships like Volkswagen-Rivian enhancing software capabilities.
The Model X’s falcon-wing doors and the S’s minimalist design still draw buyers, but quality issues—such as peeling yoke steering and misaligned panels—persist. Tesla’s pivot to AI, robotics, and robotaxis may explain the conservative refresh, as resources shift to projects like the Cybercab and next-gen FSD hardware.
Looking Forward
The 2026 Tesla Model S and Model X are refined versions of iconic EVs, but their minor updates reflect Tesla’s divided focus. New colors, longer range, and quieter cabins enhance the experience, yet the lack of bold design changes or cutting-edge tech leaves them vulnerable to rivals. For loyalists, the S and X remain compelling for their performance and Tesla’s ecosystem. However, in a market demanding innovation, these decade-old cars risk fading into the background. As Tesla eyes the future with robotaxis and affordable models, the 2026 refresh may be the last hurrah for its pioneering flagships.