Updated Tesla Model S and Model X models spotted without camouflage in California.
Tesla Set to Refresh Model S and Model X in Late 2025
Tesla is gearing up for an official launch of the refreshed Model S and Model X later this year, according to recent sightings of test vehicles in California and a confirmation from Tesla's Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy.
The changes to the Model S and Model X mirror updates made to the Model 3 and Model Y, with a focus on both design and technical improvements. At the rear of the Model S, a new diffuser adds a sportier touch to the design. The Model X prototype also shows changes, including the front bumper camera, new wheels, and the same interior ambient lighting.
The updates are likely the long-anticipated refresh of these models, which includes the introduction of hardware version 5 (HW5). HW5, rumored to enter mass production in 2025, promises more compute power, upgraded cameras with higher resolution, and improved performance in challenging weather such as better defrosting capabilities.
In addition to HW5, the refreshed Model S and Model X will feature a front bumper camera to improve visibility and contribute to enhanced Full Self-Driving capabilities. Other software features include Tesla's Grok AI assistant, Light Sync lighting effects, and improved diagnostics via a new Vehicle Functions panel in Service Mode.
The new Model S and Model X prototypes may still include the rumored 48-volt electrical architecture, steer-by-wire steering system, HW5/AI5 computer, and bi-directional charging (PowerShare), but these have not been confirmed.
Price increases have accompanied these updates, reflecting the improved feature set and refinements. However, some fans have expressed disappointment at the relatively minor nature of the visible updates on the Model S and Model X.
Prototypes of the refreshed Model S and Model X are now being tested in multiple locations, including the Nürburgring in Germany. The camouflaged Model S prototype tested at the Nürburgring had new 21-inch wheels similar to the Model 3 Performance. Recently, updated vehicles were caught in the open without any camouflage, indicating that Tesla is nearing the final stages of development.
Moravy emphasized that the Model S and Model X would be getting "some love," reaffirming Tesla's commitment to its low-volume, high-impact vehicles. If the rumored technical improvements are not included in the update, many fans may be disappointed.
The updates on the Model S and Model X were spotted by frequent Tesla spotter, The Kilowatts (@klwtts). The Model X may debut a new exterior paint option described as "more luxurious and maybe a little more pastel" than Glacier Blue.
The upcoming refresh aims to boost driving experience, safety, and comfort, leveraging both hardware and software innovations in Tesla’s refreshed Model S and Model X. Stay tuned for more updates as Tesla moves closer to the official launch.
- The automotive industry and Tesla supporters eagerly await the official launch of the refreshed Model S and Model X in late 2025, featuring design and technical improvements.
- Technology improvements in the Model S and Model X, such as the introduction of hardware version 5 (HW5), aim to enhance compute power, camera resolution, and weather performance.
- The refresh of the Model S and Model X will also include software features like Tesla's Grok AI assistant, Light Sync lighting effects, and improved diagnostics via a new Vehicle Functions panel in Service Mode.
- The transportation lifestyle is expected to be transformed with the updates on the Model S and Model X, as they strive to elevate driving experience, safety, and comfort through both hardware and software innovations.