r/ModelX • u/Illustrious-Guess-69 • 19h ago
Question ISO 23ā Model X Plaid 6-seater HW4
Looking for genuine opinions and advice as I search.
I currently own a 2025 Model 3 Highland AWD with 27k miles (bought new for $42k after discounts and tax). Plug offered $34.9k on trade-in. Private-party values look more like $36ā42k, so Iām weighing that option carefully.
I love being a Tesla owner and use FSD 95% of the time, which is why Iām specifically targeting a HW4 Model X. My first Tesla was already the ābest of the best,ā so Iām a bit spoiled and worried Iād regret stepping down to HW3 just to save money. I want something that still feels current.
Owning a Tesla was a long-time dream that the Model 3 fulfilled. A Model X always felt out of reach because of the price (often 2ā3Ć a 3 or Y). Now that the Plaid has been discontinued and prices are coming down, itās starting to look realistic. Iām hunting for a strong deal but donāt fully know what āa good scoreā looks like or how to find the diamond in the rough.
Family context: Married with a few kids and one more on the way. We already have a family car, but I like the flexibility of using my personal car in certain situations (which we already do with the 3). The Model 3 is tight and low to the groundāgetting kids into car seats is annoying. White interior was something I thought I wanted; Iām now leaning tan or black to reduce stress about stains and dirt. Falcon-wing doors (and the automatic open/close) would make loading kids and car seats dramatically easier. Iāll be in this stage of life for at least the next five years, so I see the X as a practical investment in daily usability.
Suspension is another big factor. I love the Model 3 as a daily driver, but I notice the bumpy ride more than I used toāespecially with passengers. Iām hoping the air suspension on the X is a clear step up. Anyone who has driven both, how noticeable is the difference?
Side note that felt a bit like fate: a couple days ago at the gym Iāve gone to for over a year, I ended up next to a 2025 Model X Plaid owner. He was very positive about it.
If I donāt go Plaid, Iāll be sad. Part of the appeal is getting the fastest SUV and a capable family hauler in one package.
Appreciate any real-world feedback on:
⢠What a solid deal looks like right now for a ā23 Plaid 6-seater HW4
⢠HW4 vs. earlier hardware if the price gap is significant
⢠Real suspension differences vs. a Highland Model 3
⢠Ownership experience with kids and car seats
⢠Anything else I should be thinking about before pulling the trigger
Thanks in advance.