After more than a decade on sale, the Tesla Model S sedan and Tesla Model X SUV, have been refreshed once again for 2026. The update for Tesla’s most senior models features sharper styling, incremental performance improvements, and enhanced cabin features. But for Australian buyers, it’s another reminder that these EV flagships remain out of reach.
Familiar faces, finer details
Tesla’s 2026 update doesn’t offer revolutionary changes to these cars, but it does bring meaningful refinements. The Tesla Model S Plaid stands out with a revised front bumper and a more prominent rear diffuser, designed to aid high-speed aerodynamics. Across both vehicles, new wheel designs (ranging from 19 to 22 inches) and two fresh paint options—Frost Blue and Diamond Black—add some visual freshness. The front Tesla badge now comes in matte black for a stealthier finish.
Range and performance tweaks
While the dual-motor powertrains remain unchanged, refinements in aerodynamics have unlocked a little extra range. The Tesla Model X Long Range now claims 567 km (up 37 km), while the updated Tesla Model S Plaid sees a 32 km gain, bringing it to 592 km on a single charge (based on EPA estimates). However, the claimed range for the Tesla Model S Long Range remains unchanged at 660km (US EPA figures). DC fast charging remains capped at 250 kW, delivering up to 330km of range in about 15 minutes.
Cabin ambience and small luxuries
Inside, both Tesla models now feature multi-colour ambient lighting integrated across the dashboard, doors and footwells. The carmaker also claims modest improvement in third-row passenger space and boot capacity in the Model X. Active Noise Cancellation software has also been enhanced for a quieter cabin.
Tesla has also made changes to the steering setup. The polarising yoke-style control – once the default in Plaid models – is now optional, and no longer offered in the Long Range variants of both Model S and Model X.
Updated hardware
Subtle hardware changes include a new front-facing camera (positioned low on the bumper), joining Tesla’s expanding camera suite. Headlights have also been upgraded with adaptive high-beam functionality, and Tesla claims to have reduced both wind and road noise. Tesla also says ride quality has improved thanks to revised suspension tuning and new bushings.
Still no right-hand drive
Despite the updates, Australian customers remain locked out of the full Tesla trove. Both the Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X were withdrawn from the local market in 2023, citing engineering challenges related to the production of right-hand drive vehicles. That hasn’t changed with the 2026 update.
According to Tesla Australia’s country director, Thom Drew, the decision was made late in the product planning cycle. “From what I understand, there are some engineering difficulties… that make it not possible to build it in right-hand drive,” he recently told Drive. “So it doesn’t appear to be something that’s going to be made in right-hand drive anytime soon.”
US sales underway
In the US, the updated Tesla Model S and Model X are already available to order, with prices increasing by US$5000 (approx. AU$7700). Performance versions like the Tesla Model S Plaid now come with a 240km/h top speed as standard, with an optional Track Package unlocking the full 322km/h potential.
But for Australian EV fans hoping for the return of Tesla’s long-range luxury flagships, it’s yet another year of watching from afar. However, for the most committed fans, there is hope of getting their hands on perhaps the wackiest model of the lineup – the Tesla Cybertruck.
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