Tesla Freshens Model S, Offers Cheaper Model X

Tesla Motors Inc. is eliminating the faux grille from its Model S sedan for 2017 and has introduced a less expensive version of its new Model X crossover.

Because Tesla’s cars are electric, they don’t need a large grille in front to cool the engine. The original Model S used a large black panel in place of a grille, presumably because drivers expect to see something on the front of a vehicle. The front of the 2017 Model S uses only a thin strip strip of chrome and black trim around a discrete Tesla badge.

Tesla signaled its evolving new look last week when it unveiled its upcoming Model 3 electric sedan. The car's front end is adorned only with the Tesla badge on the hood.

The entry-level Model S price remains unchanged at $71,500. The fanciest version costs $109,500. But Tesla also has introduced a less expensive version of its recently introduced Model X electric crossover.

The $83,000 base 75D base Model X comes with all-wheel drive and a 75-kWh battery. Tesla says the car can travel 237 miles per charge, accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. The top-end P90D version of the Model X starts at $115,500 and can zip from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph.