The 2021 redesign brought major changes to both the exterior and interior

Tesla redesigned the Model S and Model X in 2021, making changes to the body shape, interior layout, and available features. The refresh was not a minor update — the exterior looks noticeably different, the steering wheel changed from a traditional round design to a horizontal yoke, and the interior lost most physical buttons in favor of touchscreen controls. If you are comparing a pre-2021 model to a 2021 or later one, you are looking at two substantially different vehicles.

The refresh rolled out gradually. Early 2021 Model S sedans began arriving with the new design in January, while Model X vehicles followed later that year. Tesla continued to refine both vehicles after the initial launch, so a 2021 model and a 2023 model share the same basic redesign but may differ in specific features, software, and available options.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 redesign changed the exterior profile, interior layout, and steering mechanism on both the Model S and Model X, making them visually and functionally distinct from earlier generations.
  • The new interior uses a horizontal steering yoke instead of a traditional round wheel and removes most physical buttons, moving controls to the center touchscreen.
  • Exterior changes include a new front fascia, revised door handles, and a different rear design that affects both appearance and aerodynamics.
  • Battery options, motor configurations, and performance specs shifted with the refresh, so a 2021 Model S is not directly comparable to a 2020 model in terms of range and acceleration.

Exterior design and body changes

The refreshed Model S and Model X have a lower, wider stance than their predecessors. The front end is flatter and more angular, with a redesigned grille area and new headlight shape. The side profile is sleeker, and the rear has been restyled with a different bumper and taillight design. These changes were not purely cosmetic — Tesla adjusted the aerodynamics to improve efficiency and range.

The door handles changed as well. Pre-2021 models used a push-button handle that required a specific motion to open; the refreshed versions use a flush handle that you press to pop the door open. This design is less prone to ice buildup in cold climates and looks cleaner when the door is closed.

Wheel options expanded with the refresh. Tesla offered new designs ranging from 18 to 22 inches, and the larger wheels became more common on higher-end trims. The overall length and wheelbase remained similar, so the refresh did not significantly change interior space or cargo capacity.

Interior layout and steering wheel redesign

The most controversial change was the steering wheel. Tesla replaced the traditional round wheel with a horizontal yoke — essentially a flat, rectangular steering input device. The yoke has no horn pad in the center and requires a different hand position. Some owners adapted quickly; others found it awkward or unsafe. Tesla later offered a traditional round steering wheel as an option on newer models, acknowledging that the yoke was not universally preferred.

The dashboard is now dominated by a single large touchscreen mounted horizontally in the center. Physical buttons for climate control, seat adjustment, and other functions were removed. All controls moved to the screen or to scroll wheels on the steering yoke. This design reduces clutter but means you cannot adjust the heat or fan speed without looking at the screen while driving.

The center console was simplified. The refreshed models have less storage in the traditional sense, though Tesla added a front trunk (frunk) organizer and redesigned the rear storage area. Wireless charging for phones is standard on most trims, positioned in the center console.

Battery, motor, and performance specifications

The 2021 refresh introduced new battery options and motor configurations. The Model S came with a choice of Long Range and Plaid powertrains. The Long Range uses dual motors and offers around 400 miles of range, while the Plaid uses three motors and is designed for performance rather than efficiency. The Model X followed a similar structure, with Long Range and Plaid options.

Range figures changed with the refresh. A 2021 Model S Long Range has a different EPA-estimated range than a 2020 model, partly because of the new battery chemistry and partly because of updated testing procedures. The Plaid models prioritize acceleration over range — a Model S Plaid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds but has lower range than the Long Range version.

Charging speed and battery management also evolved. The refreshed models support faster Supercharging under certain conditions, though the actual charging speed depends on the Supercharger version, battery temperature, and state of charge. Tesla continued to update battery management software after the initial 2021 launch, so a 2023 Model S may charge slightly differently than a 2021 model.

Technology and software features

The refreshed Model S and Model X came with updated infotainment systems and new software capabilities. The center touchscreen runs a newer version of Tesla's operating system, with improved graphics and faster response times. Over-the-air software updates continue to add features and refine performance after purchase.

Autopilot hardware remained largely the same, but the camera layout and processing power were refined. Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta software, available as an option, works on the refreshed models but requires a paid subscription. The base Autopilot features — adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping information — are standard on all trims.

The audio system was upgraded. Premium audio options now include a more powerful amplifier and additional speakers. The standard audio system is adequate for most listeners, but the premium option is noticeably better for music and podcasts.

Seating, comfort, and interior materials

The refreshed Model S and Model X kept their seating capacity — the S seats five adults, and the X seats up to seven with the optional third-row seats. However, the seat design changed. The new seats use different foam and covering materials, and the adjustment mechanisms were refined. Most owners report the new seats are more comfortable on long drives, though personal preference varies.

Interior materials shifted toward synthetic leather and vegan alternatives. Tesla moved away from traditional leather on most trims, using a material called Vegan Leather that is easier to clean and more durable in high-traffic areas. Premium trims still offer leather as an option, though availability varies by region and production year.

Climate control became screen-based, which means you lose the ability to make quick adjustments without taking your eyes off the road. However, the system itself is more powerful and responsive than the pre-2021 design, and you can set preferences that the car remembers for future drives.

Pricing and trim availability

The 2021 refresh did not dramatically change the starting price, though specific trims and options shifted. The Model S started at a lower price point than the Model X, reflecting the difference in size and seating. Pricing has fluctuated significantly since 2021 due to supply chain issues, battery costs, and Tesla's pricing strategy, so comparing a 2021 price to a current price is not straightforward.

Available trims and options changed over time. Early 2021 models had different option packages than 2023 models. For example, some early models offered a Standard Range option that was later discontinued. If you are shopping for a used refreshed Model S or X, the specific year matters because it determines which features and options were available.

Paint colors, wheel designs, and interior trim options expanded gradually after the initial launch. Tesla added new colors and wheel styles in 2022 and 2023, so a 2021 model may have fewer customization options than a newer one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a traditional round steering wheel on a refreshed Model S or X?

Yes, Tesla began offering a traditional round steering wheel as an option on refreshed models after customer feedback. It is available on newer 2022 and 2023 models and can be ordered as a no-cost option on some trims. If you already own a refreshed model with the yoke, aftermarket round wheels are available but require professional installation.

How much more range does the 2021 refresh have compared to the 2020 model?

The 2021 Model S Long Range has approximately 400 miles of EPA-estimated range, compared to around 402 miles for a 2020 model — the difference is minimal. However, real-world range depends heavily on driving conditions, temperature, and driving style. The Plaid models sacrifice range for performance and have lower EPA estimates than the Long Range versions.

Is the touchscreen-only interior harder to use while driving?

Many owners report that the lack of physical buttons requires more attention while driving, especially for climate control adjustments. However, you can set climate preferences before driving, and voice commands handle some functions. The trade-off is a cleaner interior design versus slightly less convenient on-the-fly adjustments.

What is the difference between a 2021 and 2023 refreshed Model S?

Both use the same basic redesign, but a 2023 model has newer battery chemistry, refined software, additional color and wheel options, and potentially improved performance metrics. The core design — yoke steering, horizontal touchscreen, new exterior — is the same. The differences are incremental refinements rather than a second major redesign.

Does the refreshed Model X still have falcon wing doors?

Yes, the Model X kept the distinctive falcon wing doors. The 2021 refresh refined the mechanism to be more reliable and faster to open and close. The doors still require clearance on both sides and can be tricky in tight parking spaces, but they remain a signature feature of the Model X.