Update: Story updated with original pictures and first-hand observations.
In August 2025, Tesla announced a new version of the Model Y in China, called the Tesla Model Y L, featuring a longer wheelbase, a redesigned roof, and most notably, a 6-seat interior.
Priced from RMB 339,000 (USD 49,182), it represents a premium of about 8% over the comparable five-seater Long Range AWD (from RMB 313,500). Here are the 18 key differences we see in the new Tesla Model Y 6-seater, which could eventually be introduced in the U.S.
1. Lengthened Wheelbase
The new Model Y 6-seater has a wheelbase stretching to 3,040 mm (119.7 in), which is 150 mm (5.9 in) longer than the standard 5-seater. This enhances third-row legroom and overall cabin space.
2. Longer & Taller Body
With an overall length of 4,976 mm (195.9 in), the 6-seater is 179 mm (7.0 in) longer than the regular version. Additionally, the height has slightly increased (+1.7 in) to 65.6 in, providing a more spacious interior. With a Cd of 0.216, it is slightly more aerodynamic than the standard Model Y (0.22). These increments position the 6-seater as a midway option between the standard Model Y and the larger Model X.
3. 6-seat Layout
Instead of a cramped seven-seat configuration, the new version adopts a practical 6-seat layout. The second row features independent captain’s chairs with electric adjustment, ventilation, heating, and folding functions, while the third row provides a heated, folding bench. This setup significantly improves comfort for second-row passengers.
This seating arrangement, similar to the Model X, improves accessibility and rear passenger comfort, aided by the longer, taller opening. The 6-seat midsize EV segment is trending in China, but not so much globally.
4. Wider & Longer Front Seats
The front seat design and cushioning are notably different from the U.S.-spec model. Besides heating and ventilation, the seats have more headrest bolstering, and an electric extension for better under-thigh support.
5. New AC Vents & Cupholders
The increased passenger volume requires more powerful air-conditioning, and Tesla has added vertical air vents on the B- and C-pillars to keep passengers on all three rows comfortable. We also spot cupholders for the third-row occupants.
6. Variable Damping Suspension
The Model Y L uses the same second-generation suspension system as the refreshed Model Y, but it also comes with continuous variable damping that should deliver a smoother ride and better control given the longer, heavier body.
7. Higher Power Output
The electric motors in the 6-seater variant are slightly more powerful than those in the regular variant. They develop 142 kW and 198 kW, respectively, which is slightly more than the 137 kW and 194 kW motors of the standard dual-motor AWD version.
These upgrades compensate for the added bulk, giving it a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 4.5 seconds, only 0.2 seconds slower than the regular AWD variant.
8. 467-Mile Range
With a range of 751 km (467 miles) CLTC, the Model Y L is nearly identical to the Long Range AWD version (750 km).
9. New ‘5M’ Battery
Tesla has not confirmed details of the long-wheelbase Model Y’s battery, but reports suggest the three-row version is equipped with LG’s new 5M pack instead of the previous 5L. Early charging data indicates the pack can reach 256 kW at around 13% state of charge (SoC).
10. Additional Weight
Due to its extended dimensions and extra seating, the Model Y 6-seater weighs 2,088 kg (4,604 lb.), making it 96 kg (212 lb.) heavier than the regular version.
11. Visual Tweaks
Tesla has made considerable design and styling updates, including a fully redesigned C-pillar, a rear spoiler inspired by the Performance model, distinct Model Y L badging on the tailgate, a new wheel design, and an exclusive ‘Starlight Gold’ exterior color.
12. Larger Display
Inside, the Model Y L is equipped with a 16-inch central touchscreen (vs. 15.4-inch on the others) and an 8-inch rear screen for the second row, offering a more immersive tech experience.
13. Cooled Charging Pad
The dashboard’s wireless charging pad has a center slit for air circulation. This should keep the phone from heating up during charging, especially during a hot summer day.
14. More Cargo Capacity
Owing to its extended body, the Model Y L provides 2,539 liters (89.7 cu ft) of cargo space, a significant increase from 2,138 liters (75.5 cu ft) in the standard model in China.
15. Premium Audio
It also gets the top-spec 18-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, compared to 15 speakers on the AWD, and 9 speakers on the base RWD version.
16. USB-C ports in the seat base
The Model Y L is the first Tesla vehicle to offer a pair of USB-C ports on the seat base. This is seen in the third row.
17. Ducktail Spoiler
The Model Y L carries a larger ducktail spoiler, which appears to be more than just a styling cue. With the body now longer and heavier, the spoiler is likely to play a role in stability, helping generate extra downforce at highway speeds.
18. Bi-directional charging
The regular Model Y does not support bi-directional charging, but the Model Y L does come with that capability. According to a recent report from IT Home, Tesla recently rolled out a software update to enable bi-directional charging and to offer ‘Powershare,’ a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function.
Powershare in the Model Y L supplies power at up to 2.2 kW, which is sufficient to run most domestic appliances and consumer electronics. It can run only until the battery pack’s state of charge drops to 10%.
U.S. Launch
This variant of the Model Y (Model Y L) doesn’t start production in the US until the end of next year. Might not ever, given the advent of self-driving in America.
Elon Musk, via X, in August 2025
Tesla will offer the Model Y L in markets other than China. CEO Elon Musk has said on X that there are conditional U.S. plans for the new six-seat model. With its roomier cabin and more comfort-focused seating layout, the Model Y L should appeal to U.S. families as a practical option. It could also help bridge the gap the Model X will leave when it bows out this year.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
