The Tesla Model Y L (long wheelbase) 6-seater will go on sale as soon as Tesla readies U.S. production. Reviews of the Model Y L are appearing in the overseas media.
Brooke Crothers, Contributor
Forbes
2 min read
6/10
Key Takeaways
Tesla Model Y L features a wheelbase extended by 4 inches (102 mm) over the standard Model Y, enabling a third row of seats.
The 6-seat configuration (2+2+2) is already sold in Europe and Asia; US production will primarily be at Gigafactory Texas.
Overseas reviewers report improved rear legroom and a smoother ride; range is expected to be similar to the Model Y Long Range (~330 miles EPA).
Pricing is estimated at $53,000–$55,000 for the base dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant, undercutting the Rivian R1S (starting ~$78,000).
Deliveries in the US could begin as early as Q4 2026, with a formal unveiling likely at Tesla's Q3 event.
Tesla is finally bringing a bigger version of its best-selling SUV to the US market, directly targeting families who need three-row seating. The Tesla Model Y L (long wheelbase) 6-seater will go on sale as soon as Tesla readies domestic production, with overseas reviews already praising its extra space and comfort. This move fills a glaring gap in Tesla’s lineup: until now, US customers could only buy the five-seat Model Y, while the L variant has been available in Europe and Asia for months. The Model Y L features a wheelbase extended by approximately 4 inches (102 mm), enabling a third row of seats that can accommodate two additional passengers. Initial overseas reviews highlight improved rear legroom and a more comfortable ride thanks to the longer chassis. Production in the US is expected to take place at Gigafactory Texas in Austin, though some reports suggest Tesla’s Fremont plant could also contribute. The timeline for deliveries points to late 2026, with a formal unveiling likely at a Tesla event this fall. The star of Tesla’s lineup, the Model Y was the world’s best-selling car in 2023 and 2024. Yet the lack of a three-row option in the US hurt Tesla’s competitiveness against newer electric SUVs like the Rivian R1S, Kia EV9, and the upcoming Chevrolet Blazer EV. The Model Y L directly challenges those rivals with Tesla’s established Supercharger network and over-the-air software updates. Pricing has not been confirmed, but analysts expect a premium of $3,000 to $5,000 over the standard Model Y Long Range, which currently starts at around $50,000. If Tesla holds that price point, the Model Y L could undercut many competitors while offering similar seating capacity. The broader implications for the EV market are significant: Tesla’s best-selling model just became more versatile, potentially accelerating the shift from internal combustion SUVs to electric ones. Consumers have been waiting for an affordable three-row electric SUV, and the Model Y L is positioned to deliver. Next up, Tesla will need to scale production quickly to meet pent-up demand. The company is also rumored to be working on a refreshed Model Y (codenamed Project Juniper) for 2027, meaning the L variant may soon be joined by a full redesign. For now, US buyers finally have a Tesla SUV that fits a larger family.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Tesla Model Y L (long wheelbase) is a version of the popular Model Y with an extended wheelbase that allows for a third row of seats, accommodating up to six passengers. It is already sold in Europe and Asia and is now coming to the US.
The Tesla Model Y L is a 6-seat SUV with a 2+2+2 configuration. The second and third rows have two seats each, all integrated into the longer chassis.
Tesla plans to start US production and sales in late 2026, with a formal unveiling expected at the company's Q3 event. Deliveries could begin before the end of 2026.
Most US-bound Model Y L units are expected to be built at Gigafactory Texas (Austin), though the Fremont, California plant may also contribute.
The Model Y L has a 4-inch longer wheelbase, which provides more rear legroom and a smoother ride. It also adds a third row of seats, while the standard Model Y is only available with two rows and five seats.
Analysts estimate the Model Y L will cost $3,000–$5,000 more than the standard Model Y Long Range, starting around $53,000–$55,000 for the dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant.
