Tesla Model Y L 6-Seater Revealed With 17 Key Changes; U.S. Launch In Doubt

Last Updated On: November 25, 2025 7:03 AM. Original article by: Shrawan Raja

Update: ‘Bi-directional charging’ added.

In August, 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 47,725), it represents a premium of about 8% over the comparable five-seater Long Range AWD (from RMB 313,500).

According to local news reports, over 100,000 units of the Model Y L were ordered by Chinese buyers in the first two weeks. Deliveries are underway, and the waiting time for new orders ranges from four to eight weeks.

Here are the 17 key differences that we spot 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 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 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 also 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 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 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).

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

Videos from Chinese social media reveal that 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. 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.

17. Bi-directional charging

The regular Model Y does not support bi-directional charging, but the Model Y 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 use it to offer ‘Powershare,’ a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function.

Model Y L customers can now run external equipment like electronics and power tools using the energy stored in the EV’s traction battery pack when they’re off the grid or during emergency situations. Tesla offers an external adapter with a domestic socket-like outlet to use the Powershare function, and customers need to plug it into the EV’s AC charging port. The company caps the system’s output at 2.2 kW.

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 only run until the battery pack’s state of charge drops to 10%.

U.S. Launch

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has said on X that there are conditional U.S. plans for the new six-seat Model Y L. While production is expected to begin in the U.S. late next year, he suggested it may also never happen, citing the potential impact of self-driving technology on consumer demand.

As the Model Y L is more spacious and comfortable, families in the U.S. wouldn’t have to upgrade to the larger Model X if the variant is offered here.