New electric SUVs are finally arriving, offering a variety of options. Some, like the Kia EV9, are budget-friendly, while others, such as the Lucid Gravity, fall into the luxury category. The Lucid Gravity joins the Lucid Air in the brand’s premium lineup and looks poised to challenge competitors like the well-established Tesla Model X.
The Tesla Model X has been a popular electric SUV for some time, known for its distinctive design, long range, and unique features. Lucid, however, has been setting new standards for range since the launch of the Lucid Air, which can travel over 500 miles on a single charge.
Now, how do these two vehicles compare head-to-head?
When it comes to design, the Tesla Model X and Lucid Gravity are quite different. The Tesla Model X features recognizable design elements seen in other Tesla models, such as slim headlights, the Tesla logo, and a curved roofline. It also has unique gull-wing doors that open upwards, offering easier access for loading baby seats, cargo, or simply getting in and out of the vehicle.
While the Model X might not stand out much among other Tesla cars, it does look unique on the road. On the other hand, the Lucid Gravity also boasts an appealing design, echoing the curved light bar and modern aesthetics of the Lucid Air. Though it looks like a taller version of the Lucid Air, it maintains a sleek appearance with features like a long rear light bar and the Lucid logo stretching across the back.
In the end, the design preference is subjective, making this comparison a tie.
Both vehicles have modern interiors. The Tesla Model X features two displays: a large infotainment screen for navigation, climate controls, and more, along with an instrument display behind the steering wheel. The interior is minimalistic with options for all-black, all-white, or “walnut” decor, including classy wooden accents. The Model X accommodates up to seven passengers.
Similarly, the Lucid Gravity offers a modern interior with a different approach to infotainment. It includes two screens, one of which is divided into sections along the dashboard for monitoring instruments, wipers, lights, and maps. The secondary lower display provides access to driving modes, seat controls, and other settings. The seats are upholstered in brown leather, also accommodating up to seven passengers.
Both interiors are quite premium and modern, resulting again in a tie.
When it comes to performance, both the Tesla Model X and Lucid Gravity have impressive specs. The Tesla Model X comes in two variants: the standard Model X and the Model X Plaid. The standard version is equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. The Model X Plaid, with a tri-motor all-wheel drive, achieves this in just 2.5 seconds.
Details about the Lucid Gravity are still emerging, but we know the base model will feature two motors, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in “under 3.5 seconds.” This is slower than the fastest Model X, favoring Tesla in performance for now.
Both Tesla and Lucid cars are known for their long range. The Tesla Model X offers a range of 348 miles in the standard version, dropping slightly to 333 miles in the Plaid version. It can charge at a rate of up to 250 kilowatts, translating to 200 additional miles in just 15 minutes.
The Lucid Gravity, however, steps up with a range of “over 440 miles,” likely referring to higher-end versions. Even lower-end models are expected to surpass the range of the Model X, given Lucid’s track record. Additionally, the Gravity boasts one of the fastest charging speeds at 350 kW. So, in terms of range and charging speed, Lucid Gravity takes the lead.
Currently, the Tesla Model X is available for purchase, with prices starting at $79,990 for the standard model and rising to $94,990 for the Model X Plaid. In contrast, the Lucid Gravity has been announced but won’t ship until late 2024 and starts at “under $80,000,” comparable to the Model X.
While both cars are priced similarly, the availability of the Tesla Model X gives it an edge for now.
In conclusion, both the Tesla Model X and Lucid Gravity have their strengths and weaknesses. The Model X currently offers better performance, while the Gravity excels in range and charging speed. However, the deciding factor right now is availability, with the Model X being the only one you can buy immediately. The Lucid Gravity can be pre-ordered, but deliveries won’t begin until the end of 2024.