Tesla Model X review: boot space, seating & practicality
The Tesla Model X is huge inside and can be specified with one of three different seating configurations
| Length | Width | Height | Boot volume (seats down) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5,036mm | 2,271mm | 1,684mm | 2,577 litres |
Being designed from the ground up as a pure-electric SUV means the shape of the Tesla Model X isn’t dictated by having to accommodate a petrol or diesel engine. Although its outline has a bonnet, there’s nothing under it except from a few service points and some storage space. In fact, between an unrivalled range of interior seating layouts and that extra storage space, the Model X is an extremely practical family car.
Tesla Model X interior space, storage and comfort
You can choose five, six or seven-seat layouts for the Model X. The conventional five-seat layout is the standard setup, while you’ll pay extra for a third row of two fold-flat seats – also the conventional layout for a seven-seat SUV.
Another cost option is an ‘executive’ six-seat layout, with a 2+2+2 arrangement that leaves those in the middle with two standalone seats, and a space in the middle for passengers to more easily access the sixth and seventh seats. Regardless of which layout you go for, the seats in the second and third row can fold flat to give the Model X van-like carrying capacity.
Otherwise, the seats in the first two rows are comfortable, spacious, and flooded with light from the enormous sunroof. The two seats in the third row of the Model X (if you’ve added them) are okay by seven-seat SUV standards, but still best reserved for children. The Land Rover Discovery (which doesn’t offer a hybrid or electric model) is much better for sixth and seventh-seat passengers.
Getting in and out is easy, and the ‘Falcon Wing’ rear doors reveal a wide aperture, making access to the third row better than just about any other seven-seat SUV. Mind you, the 15 seconds they take to open can become irritating. Don’t worry about the doors taking up space, though: they actually need less room to open than a normal side-hinged door, and a proximity sensor is fitted to prevent them hitting anything.
Boot space
A 187-litre space under the bonnet will take a soft bag or some shopping, while the normal boot is big enough to cope easily with the most outdoorsy of families. Folding all the seats flat and using the front space as well adds up to 2,577 litres of load volume – more than even the Mercedes EQS SUV. Loading is made easy thanks to a rear boot floor that can be raised for a reduced lip height; there’s also a removable panel for accessing a deep compartment where you can store the car’s charging cables.
