Tesla Model X Finally Gets a Yoke Steering, Too

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• Deliveries of the updated Tesla Model X commence, after the electric SUV has received a refresh inside and out.

• The updated SUV features a yoke-style steering, buttons for turn signals, and a horizontal touchscreen with gear shift controls.

• Production of the Model S and Model X has been at a minimum for most of the year, while Tesla has dealt with supplier issues.

Over the weekend Tesla has begun deliveries of the updated Model X, after a few delays and periods of low production earlier this year. The automaker's SUV, which first debuted in 2015, has received interior and exterior updates that were first teased at the start of this year, but production of the updated model had not commenced until relatively recently.

Among other things, the Model X has received a new landscape-oriented infotainment touchscreen, a yoke-style steering, touchscreen gear controls, yoke-mounted turn signal buttons, and another screen in the back for the benefit of rear-seat passengers. The exterior of the Model X has also received a modest update, most easily noticeable by the resculpted lower front bumper. Tesla has posted a video to guide owners through the new features of the updated SUV.

Months ago there had been some debate as to whether the Model X would receive the yoke-style steering as an option versus a standard feature, alongside the updated Model S. And after it became clear that the sedan would be fitted only with the yoke steering, it was assumed that the same would apply to the Model X.

Despite the delays of the refreshed model, it's clear that Tesla has been able to post record delivery numbers, with the Model 3 and Model Y accounting for 96% of all Tesla deliveries in the past quarter. The disparity has been interpreted as a reflection of the popularity of less expensive Tesla models at home and overseas, now that the automaker's Shanghai plant is also churning out vehicles for China and Europe. So the lopsided delivery numbers have proven, among other things, that the two older models are not crucial to Tesla's bottom line, but could benefit from complete redesigns in the near future.

Of course, having just received a major update, the Model X still has a few years left in it, even if Tesla has made it clear that it does not quite follow traditional industry product cycles.

Still, it's difficult not to note the vast gap in pricing that now exists between the Model 3 and Model Y, and the two older and more expensive vehicles. The Model X now starts at $101,190 for the Long Range version, which offers a range of 360 miles, while the Model X Plaid starts at $121,990 and offers 2.5-second launches to 60 mph along with a 340-mile range.

Before you rush out to order one, keep in mind that the start of deliveries of the refreshed version does not mean that the wait time has been lifted or shortened in some fashion. Buyers ordering one just now will likely have to wait until the middle of next summer, at the earliest, to receive their vehicle. Tesla Model 3 and Model Y delivery times are slightly more favorable, but may still stretch in excess of five months at the moment.