Update: All sections have been revised.
Tesla has announced a new version of the Model Y in China, the Tesla Model Y L, which will be delivered to customers during the fall, featuring a longer wheelbase, a redesigned roof, and most notably, a 6-seat interior.
Priced from RMB 339,000, it represents a premium of about 8% over the comparable five-seater Long Range AWD (from RMB 313,500). Here are the fourteen key differences that we spotted in the new Tesla Model Y 6-seater.
1. Lengthened Wheelbase
The new Model Y 6-seater has a wheelbase stretching 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. 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 and 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 and taller opening. The 6-seat midsize EV segment is beginning to trend in China in 2025, but not so much globally.
4. Wider & Longer Front Seats
Additionally, 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 comes with continuous variable damping that should present 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 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 Miles 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). While we’ll wait for Tesla’s announcement before confirming, the long-wheelbase Model Y appears to be powered by the same 82 kWh battery.
9. Additional Weight
Due to its extended dimensions and extra seating, the Model Y 6-seater weighs 2,088 kg (4,604 lbs), making it 96 kg (212 lbs) heavier than the regular version.
10. 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.
11. Larger Display
Inside, the Model Y L is equipped with a 16-inch central touchscreen (vs. 15.4-inch on the others) and 8-inch rear screen for the second row, offering a more immersive tech experience.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. 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.
With these upgrades, the Model Y L offers more space and comfort, especially for families in China, without having them upgrade to the larger Model X.
Featured Image: Tesla China
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.
