Tesla Model X SUV - Reliability & safety

The Tesla Model X was crash-tested by Euro NCAP in late 2019, earning a five-star safety rating. In 2016, Tesla was the runaway winner of our Driver Power manufacturer survey, and it came an impressive third in 2021's results. However, we’ve heard little in the way of complaints from Model X owners, even with the vast array of technology hidden under the car’s bodywork.

Tesla Model X reliability

The latest Driver Power survey results place the brand well ahead of many more established rivals. Owners had mainly positive words for their cars, placing it top for its powertrains, and impressed with practicality and low running costs. However, more than 40% of owners reported a fault within the first year, which was a higher proportion than any other manufacturer. The Model X is closely related to the Model S under the surface and that car is now well proven. However, some owners in America have reported faults with the ‘falcon wing’ doors.

Safety

When the Model X was crash-tested by Euro NCAP it scored a maximum five-star rating - the same overall score as the Model S and Model 3. The Model X rated highly across the board, including 98% for adult occupant protection and 81% for child occupant protection.

Thanks to its advanced suite of standard safety kit that includes autonomous emergency braking and the ‘Autopilot’ driving assistance system, the Model X scored a highly impressive 94% for safety assistance - a rating only matched in 2019 by the Model 3.