I had ordered and confirmed a Model X for 7 seats but had been debating for a while on whether 6 or 7 would ultimately be better. I had my reasons for going with the 7 seater, such as more cargo space, safer middle 2nd row seat for kids, and if we ever needed 7 seats for passengers, etc. Well, today I had a chance to see both versions at a meet the Model X and after sitting in both, I felt the 6 seater was so much more spacious and comfortable! I had actually sat in the third row (I'm 5'9") of a 7 seater right before a test drive and for me, it felt claustrophobic and cramped. It was difficult to see forward a bit and the thought crossed my mind, if we ever (hopefully never) got into a car accident and couldn't move the 2nd row seats to get out, how would I ever climb out? I then decided to move up to the 2nd row seat! My mentality has always been, if I don't feel comfortable, then I wouldn't expect my wife or kids to feel any different and I certainly wouldn't want them to feel uncomfortable either. Granted, I don't like tight spaces (like going in all the way in for an MRI screening) so maybe it's just more me, but it felt like I just didn't have enough space with that 2nd middle row seat right there.
In contrast, the 6 seater seemed very open and spacious! It was also a lot easier to see what was going on in other parts of the car and it was easy to see right through the car to the windshield. Plus, it felt like conversing with anyone in the car would be easy and it was such a contrast to the 7 seater. And after looking at the storage area for the frunk, trunk and rear well, I figured that there would be plenty of space for storage so I didn't think that was as much of a factor anymore. One of my other concerns for going with a 6 seater was if it would be a pain to get a child out of the 3rd row? Well, I must say that the 2nd row moves up very nicely and gives plenty of easy access to the third row. Unlike some other SUVs where you have to move and lift the 2nd row seat to gain access on top of climbing into the car without hitting your head to get a child out, the Model X with its falcon doors made that almost a nonissue. I was pleasantly surprised!
After the event, I contacted my DS and asked to change my configuration to a 6 seater instead of a 7. I know it will cost $500 to change it but for me, I also know the 6 seater will be better layout and more comfortable seating arrangement for us!