Tesla (TSLA) introduced the design-refreshed 2025 Tesla Model S and Model X a few days ago. Surprisingly, everyone was wondering what had changed. Because visually, there are no significant differences from the previous models.
Tesla Model S and Model X sales have also been on a decline over the last few quarters. Tesla’s flagship electric sedan and SUV haven’t gone through a major design change in many years. The automaker launched a design refresh of these vehicles in 2021 that also cannot be labeled as a significant revision.
However, this time, you’ll have to look closely and read carefully to know the differences and upgrades that are embodied in the new 2025 Tesla Model S and Model X EVs.
Exterior and Wheels
In the 2025 design refresh, there are no significant visible changes that differentiate the new Model S AWD and Model X from the previous models. However, Tesla has made exterior design modifications only to the Model S Plaid version in this update (will cover them in a separate post).
However, Tesla has brought some interesting options to the table for its customers to choose from.
Frost Blue Metallic Paint Option
Tesla has added a new paint option to the Model S and Model X color palette named Frost Blue Metallic. This premium color is available for an extra $2,500.
Earlier this year, the new Tesla Model Y Juniper was offered in Glacier Blue color outside North America. Glacier Blue is still not available in the US & Canada.
The Frost Blue Metallic color is similar to the Glacier Blue. It’s a cool color, people who like lighter tones that are easy on the eyes can choose this paint option.
Wheels
Both the Tesla Model S AWD and Plaid variants come with two options for wheels. The included option is the 19″ Magnetite Wheels. The 19″ wheels are geared toward efficiency and ride comfort. Model S AWD has an EPA estimated range of 410 miles with the 19″ Magnetite Wheels.
The optional Model S 21″ Velarium Wheels ($4,500 extra) offer a distinct look and feel. However, the 21″ option drops the range from 30 to 40 miles for Model S AWD and Plaid versions, respectively.
Tesla Model X now has two wheel options as well, the 20″ Perihelix Wheels and the premium 22″ Machina Wheels ($5,500 extra). Both Model S and Model X Velarium and Machina wheels have received a polarizing view from Tesla customers and enthusiasts.
Model X 22″ Machina Wheels also decrease the vehicle’s range by more than 30 miles. So, both of these new premium wheel options offer premium looks (still subjective) but lack the everyday practicality.
Interior Upgrades
Dynamic Ambient Lighting
Tesla has introduced ambient lighting for the new 2025 Model S and Model X interiors in this mild refresh. The color of the interior ambient lighting can be changed and brightness controlled via the center touchscreen UI.
The new Tesla Model 3 and Model Y design refresh vehicles also have ambient lighting. How would the flagship vehicles remain without this feature?
“Dynamic ambient lighting that brings unique animations along the dash & doors upon entry,” Tesla wrote on X.
Front Fascia Camera
The new 2025 Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles are now equipped with a front fascia camera (front bumper camera) for better road visibility.
This new camera improves ground-level visibility for both the human driver and the Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. FSD will utilize this camera vision to prepare itself for the road and terrain conditions ahead.
This front fascia camera will help see objects and potholes that the top three cameras can’t see (mounted behind the backview mirror). So, this is interesting as the new Model S and X will eventually become more capable of FSD compared to the previous models.
Other Changes / Upgrades
Tesla has mentioned the following changes and upgrades it has made to the new Model S and Model X in the 2025 refresh:
- Up to 410 miles of range (Model S Long Range – Tesla’s longest range vehicle yet)
- Even quieter inside: less wind + road noise & more effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- An even smoother ride thanks to new bushings & suspension design
- Adaptive driving beams
- New exterior styling for Model S Plaid, optimized for high-speed stability
- More space for 3rd row occupants & cargo (Model X)
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