Introduction: Tesla's Luxury Lineup Gets a Facelift
Tesla has officially launched updated versions of its flagship Model S and Model X vehicles in mid-June 2025. These premium EVs — known for their sleek styling and industry-leading performance — have now received subtle design updates and a $5,000 price increase across all trims.
But the big question remains: Are these upgrades enough to justify the higher price tag? In this article, we’ll explore the new features, analyze owner reactions, and break down whether the refreshed 2025 Model S and Model X offer real value or just a cosmetic refresh.
What’s New in the 2025 Model S and Model X?
Tesla’s refresh focuses on refinements rather than revolutions. Key changes include:
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New front bumper cameras, integrated for improved Autopilot and FSD performance
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Updated LED ambient lighting inside the cabin
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Subtle exterior tweaks, including revised bumpers, new paint options, and aerodynamic wheel designs
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Slight range improvements due to software optimization and reduced drag
These updates give the Model S and X a sharper look, while aligning their ADAS systems with Tesla’s future autonomy goals.
Performance: Still Leading the Pack
Though the refresh didn’t bring dramatic mechanical changes, the Plaid models still deliver astonishing performance:
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Model S Plaid: 0–60 mph in under 2 seconds, 1,020 hp
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Model X Plaid: 0–60 mph in 2.5 seconds, up to 340 miles of range
The minor software and aerodynamics updates may improve range by 2–4%, but there’s no official EPA recertification yet. Nevertheless, these EVs still outperform most luxury electric rivals in their class.
Tesla Raises Prices: What Does It Mean?
As of June 2025, Tesla has implemented a $5,000 price increase across all trims:
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Model S Dual Motor AWD: $84,990
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Model S Plaid: $99,990
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Model X Dual Motor AWD: $89,990
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Model X Plaid: $104,990
While some owners accept the increase as “justifiable” due to feature additions and inflation, many argue that Tesla is reducing value at a time when EV competition is heating up.
Community Reactions: Mixed Sentiments
Reddit threads, X (Twitter) posts, and owner forums show split reactions:
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Some see the new styling as “sleek” and love the improved cameras for FSD support
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Others believe the changes are “not enough” to warrant a higher price
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Many Model 3/Y owners see this as Tesla prioritizing profits over features
This pricing move may also push more buyers toward the newly refreshed Model Y, which offers many features of the S/X at nearly half the cost.
Comparison to 2024 Model S and X
Compared to last year’s versions, the differences are subtle but important for FSD and design enthusiasts. But for the average driver:
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Same drivetrain and core specs
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Slightly updated UI, lighting, and build quality
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Improved camera suite (significant for autonomy)
Tesla is clearly future-proofing these models, but not reinventing them.
How They Compare to Tesla’s Mid-Range Models
The growing performance of the Model 3 Highland and Model Y Juniper raises a new question: Why pay $40,000 more for a Model S/X?
Tesla needs to make the flagship models feel distinctly superior, or risk cannibalization from its own lineup. For now, the S/X are still best for those who want:
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Top-tier range and speed
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Luxury interiors and air suspension
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Exclusive design with Tesla’s latest ADAS tech
Conclusion: A Step Forward, But Not a Giant Leap
The 2025 Model S and Model X refresh delivers polish, not revolution. While Tesla fans will appreciate the camera upgrades and sleeker appearance, some buyers may hesitate at the increased price for relatively modest improvements.
If you’re looking for the latest luxury EV experience from Tesla, the refreshed S and X are still the flagship — but they now face more competition than ever before, even from within Tesla’s own garage.
