2018 Tesla Model X P100D Ludicrous (772 hp) with EU Full Self-Driving (FSD).
This is the ultimate „unicorn“ Tesla. While the 2017 Model X 90D was the sensible family hauler, and the Model Y Performance is the modern all-rounder, the 2018 P100D Ludicrous is the insane, limited-edition flagship.
In 2018, Tesla offered the P100D with the upgraded HW2.5 or early HW3.0 computers, and it was the last year you could get the „Ludicrous“ upgrade before Tesla dropped the „P“ (Performance) branding. Pair that with paid FSD, and you have a 7-seat SUV that can embarrass supercars at traffic lights while carrying a full family and a trailer.
Here is the breakdown of the benefits:
1. The „Party Piece“: Ludicrous Mode (772 hp / 1,047 Nm)
This is not just a fast car; it is a historical milestone in automotive engineering.
Insane Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in ~2.9 seconds (with rollout subtracted). To put that in perspective: it is quicker than a Lamborghini Aventador SVJ, a Ferrari LaFerrari, and a Bugatti Veyron—all while weighing 2.5 tons.
Ludicrous+ Mode: Engaging this pre-heats the battery to optimal temperature and uses a „Max Battery Power“ setting. The instantaneous torque pins you to your seat so hard it can cause mild dizziness.
The „Cheetah Stance“ Launch: When you enable launch mode, the front air suspension lowers aggressively, squatting the car down for maximum drag-strip grip.
Emotional Value: This is a collector’s piece. Tesla no longer makes „Ludicrous“ badged cars (they moved to „Plaid“). Owning this is owning the peak of Tesla’s early performance era.
2. Full Self-Driving (FSD) – Paid & Upgraded Hardware
This is where the 2018 model differs massively from the 2017 Model X 90D.
FSD Computer Upgrade (Free/Included): If the original owner paid for FSD, Tesla upgraded the car from HW2.5 to HW3.0 for free. This means this 2018 P100D runs the exact same FSD computer as a 2023 Model Y.
Full City Street Autopilot: Unlike the 2017 90D (which was stuck on highway-only Enhanced Autopilot), this car can navigate city streets, handle traffic lights, stop signs, and complex EU roundabouts.
Future Updates: Because it has HW3.0, it continues to receive the latest FSD v12.x software updates. It is not as camera-sharp as HW4.0 (2023 Model Y), but it is 90% as capable and vastly superior to the 2017 car.
Transferable Value: FSD (paid ~€6,400 in 2018) stays with the car. You get this software for free in the used price.
3. The „P100D“ Battery – The Most Powerful 100kWh Pack Ever Made
This is a different battery to the 90D. The „P“ (Performance) 100kWh pack used a different cell chemistry and cooling system.
Higher Discharge Rate: It can dump power to the motors much faster than the 90D or Long Range models, which is why it achieves the 2.9s 0–100 time.
Better Thermal Management: The P100D has more robust cooling loops, meaning it can sustain high-performance driving (Autobahn runs, mountain passes) without overheating as quickly as the 90D.
Real-World Range: WLTP rated at ~507 km. Realistically, expect ~400 km in summer and ~320 km in winter if driving sensibly. If you drive in Ludicrous mode constantly, expect much less—but you won’t care.
4. The 2018 „EU-Spec“ Advantages (The Sweet Spot Year)
2018 was the year Tesla ironed out the major quality-control issues of the early Model X.
Improved Half-Shafts: The front drive shafts (which suffered „judder“ on 2016–2017 cars) were redesigned in 2018 to handle the immense torque without vibrating under hard acceleration.
Better Falcon Wing Door Sensors: The ultrasonic sensors were recalibrated. The doors open faster, detect low garage ceilings better, and are less likely to „hesitate“ in tight EU parking spaces.
Full CCS Combo 2 Support: Supports the EU charging standard natively. You can charge at 150kW+ Superchargers and all third-party rapid networks (Ionity, Fastned).
MCU2 (Infotainment Upgrade): By mid-2018, many cars shipped with the faster MCU2 (Intel Atom) processor. Crucially, if it has MCU1, Tesla offers a paid upgrade to MCU2 (~€1,500) which unlocks Netflix, YouTube, faster maps, and Sentry Mode live view.
5. „Transferable Warranty“ – But Read the Fine Print
This is a double-edged sword compared to the 2023 Model Y.
Battery & Drive Unit Warranty: 8 years / Unlimited miles (for EU P100D models). This is huge. Unlike the 90D (which had a mileage cap), the P100D’s battery and motors are covered for 8 years with no mileage limit.
Remaining Coverage: If this car was registered in late 2018, you have until late 2026 (or early 2027) on the battery warranty. That gives you ~6–12 months of full battery coverage left—enough time to stress-test the pack.
Basic Warranty Expired: The 4-year basic vehicle warranty is long gone. You will be paying out of pocket for air suspension, door actuators, and screen issues.
6. Maximum Practicality (Superior to Model Y & 3)
This remains the most practical Tesla ever built for large families.
Optional 7-Seat Configuration: Unlike the Model Y (which has a cramped third row), the Model X’s third row actually fits adults (up to ~5’7″ / 170 cm).
Falcon Wing Doors (The Ultimate Convenience):
Rain Canopy: They open to provide a roof over the second row, keeping kids dry in EU downpours.
Tight Access: They open in just 30 cm of side clearance, allowing you to load children into car seats even when parked between two vans.
Cargo Flexibility: The rear seats fold completely flat, giving you ~2,500 litres of cargo space—enough for full sheets of plywood or an entire moving van’s worth of boxes.
Tow Rating: Rated for 2,250 kg braked. This is the only Tesla that can legally tow a large caravan, a horse trailer, or a boat across Europe without breaking a sweat.
7. Air Suspension (The „Magic Carpet“ Ride)
Unlike the Model 3 and Model Y (which have coil springs), the Model X P100D has fully adaptive air suspension.
Ride Height Control: Automatically lowers at highway speeds (for efficiency) and raises for rough gravel roads, speed bumps, or deep snow.
Self-Leveling: Keeps the car perfectly flat even when towing a heavy trailer or carrying a fully loaded boot.
Comfort: Absorbs EU potholes, cobblestones, and worn motorway surfaces far better than the firm Model Y Performance. It glides over rough terrain.