While it’s easy to focus entirely on the Model X’s falcon-wing doors, or on its “bioweapon defense mode,” or on its impressive panoramic windshield, that would mean not paying any attention to the (certainly not boring) basic specs — and the Model X really shines in that regard as well, so perhaps we should shine more light on those?
On that note… it’s really something to to see just how substantially the Tesla Model X outperforms what had previously been (arguably) the most impressive vehicle in the SUV/CUV class — the Porsche Cayenne Turbo. The Model X really does seem to be (arguably, again) the best SUV ever produced.
To look at the numbers, here’s a concise comparison of the two models (via Seeking Alpha):
As one can see, the Model X eclipses the Cayenne turbo almost across the board, except with regard to top speed. As far as top speed goes, it should be noted that the Model X top speed of 155 mph is actually the result of being intentionally software limited — for a number of reasons. But in all honestly, I have to wonder anyways, who drives faster than 155 miles per hour?
The standout spec comparisons to my eyes seem are the torque, horsepower, and 0-60 mph comparisons — 713 pound feet of torque (Model X) versus 590 pound feet of torque; 762 horsepower versus 570 horsepower; and 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds (with Ludicrous mode) versus 3.8 seconds. Of course, all of that acceleration will also come with less noise and no jerks from shifting gears.
Ignoring the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, you might be wondering, how does the Model X stack up against other industry leaders? That’s a good question, here’s a brief overview of that:
SUV Model | 0-60 mph (in seconds) |
Tesla Model X P90DL | 3.2 |
2015 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S | 3.8 |
2015 BMW X6 M | 4.2 |
2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged | 4.6 |
2015 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG | 4.7 |
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT | 4.8 |
2015 BMW X5 xDrive50i | 4.9 |
2015 Audi SQ5 | 5.1 |
2015 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG | 5.3 |
2016 Volvo XC90 T8 | 5.8 |
2015 Ford Explorer Sport | 5.9 |
I would add a few more rows to the chart.
1) Country Manufactured in
2) Country for corporate headquarters
3) CO2 grams / mile
4) mpg / mpge
I’m sure others can come up with more.
One area I think the cayenne will smoke the x is from 100 to 250 km/h and more. Which I would find useful from time to time. Add interior quality as well.
Over 250 km/hr? From time to time? Useful?
Violently – ROTFLMAO!
Bond, James Bond – Just doin’ that gangsta s%$t – I’m an evil villain, with my evil minions!!! Rollin my Cayanne smokin them Xs and, OK let’s go, 250 on the speedo, where I’m goin’ you’ll never know
…come on, sing it again with me, one more time!
You live an amazing life – where can I sign up!
1. residual value
2. operational costs
Model X is expensive to buy, but probably way cheaper to run, and I would assume higher residual values as well, as the Porsche SUV’s drop in value like a rock after a while.