A glowing new review from Australia calls the Tesla Model Y L the “plushest and most versatile Tesla yet” with “no downsides.” The long-wheelbase 6-seater version of the refreshed Model Y is already proving popular Down Under — and it could be heading to the US this fall.
EV influencer Sawyer Merritt recently shared the review on X, sparking fresh excitement among Tesla fans waiting for a proper family haulier that doesn’t require stepping up to Model X prices.
What Is the Tesla Model Y L?
The Model Y L is a stretched, six-seat variant of Tesla’s best-selling electric SUV. It features a 150 mm longer wheelbase and ~177 mm extra overall length compared to the standard five-seat Model Y.
This creates a true 2-2-2 seating layout with second-row captain’s chairs and a usable third row — something many buyers have wanted without the higher cost or size of a Model X.
It rides on the same refreshed “Juniper” platform as the current Model Y but adds meaningful upgrades in space, comfort, range, and new features like V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) bidirectional charging.
Australian Pricing & Availability
In Australia, the Model Y L launched in a single Premium Long Range AWD grade priced at AUD $74,900 before on-road costs (roughly $6,000 more than the equivalent five-seat Model Y Long Range AWD).
- Deliveries: Started in Q2 2026
- Tesla Sydney example: Reportedly handing over ~100 vehicles per day, with many being Model Y L variants
- Colours: Pearl White Multi-Coat (included), plus paid options including exclusive Cosmic Silver (~$2,600)
This positions it as one of the more affordable three-row electric SUVs in the market — significantly undercutting rivals like the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9.
Key Specifications (Australia Model Y L Premium AWD)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Price (AUD) | $74,900 + on-roads |
| Powertrain | Dual Motor AWD |
| Power / Torque | 378 kW / 590 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.0 seconds |
| Range (WLTP) | 681 km |
| Battery | ~88 kWh gross (NMC) |
| Seating | 6 (2-2-2 captain chair layout) |
| Length / Wheelbase | 4,969 mm / 3,040 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2,088 kg |
| Boot Space (6 seats) | 420 L (up to 2,423 L with rear seats folded) |
| V2L Capability | Yes, up to ~3.5 kW via adapter |
| Suspension | Adaptive damping |
Interior & Practicality: A Real Family Haulier
The biggest upgrade is the cabin. The extra wheelbase transforms the Model Y into a proper six-seater:
- Second row: Two individual captain’s chairs that are heated, ventilated, adjustable, and feature power-deploying armrests
- Third row: Electronically reclining seats with heating, USB-C ports, cupholders, and decent space for kids or smaller adults
- Flexibility: Easy to configure for passengers or cargo; deep boot well and side recesses add practicality
- Other touches: Larger rear screen (in some reports), oscillating vents, powered features, and a quieter, more refined cabin overall
Reviewers note the interior feels plusher and more comfortable than previous Teslas, with improved materials and attention to detail (including clever magnets for sun visors, console lids, etc.).
Ride, Handling & Comfort
The Model Y L borrows adaptive damping from the Performance variant. Real-world impressions are very positive:
- Softer, more composed ride than the standard Model Y
- Surprisingly confident and fun on twisty roads despite its nearly 5-meter length and ~2,088 kg weight
- Significantly quieter cabin
- Excellent for long highway cruising
One Australian reviewer (Tim Eden) summed it up after a week with the car: it improves on the already-great refreshed Model Y in versatility, practicality, range, comfort, and driving dynamics — with “no downsides” he could think of.
Range & Efficiency
The larger ~88 kWh battery delivers a class-leading 681 km WLTP range (about 81 km more than the standard Model Y Long Range in Australia).
Real-world efficiency in testing reached as low as 110 Wh/km in town and around 147 Wh/km on mixed/highway drives — impressive for a vehicle of this size and weight.
V2L: Finally, Tesla Adds Power Export
One of the most exciting additions is official V2L capability (up to ~3.5 kW via a sleek external adapter).
This allows owners to power tools, camping gear, home appliances, or even act as backup power during outages — something rivals have offered but Tesla previously lacked in many markets. The adapter is relatively affordable (~$145 in Australia) compared to some competitors.
How It Compares to Rivals
Against the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9, the Model Y L offers:
- Better range and efficiency
- Lower starting price (often $15k–$40k+ cheaper depending on spec)
- Stronger Tesla software/FSD ecosystem and Supercharger access
- More premium driving dynamics for many reviewers
Trade-offs include a slightly tighter third row for large adults on long trips and Tesla’s minimalist control layout (no physical buttons or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto).
US Launch Rumours: Coming This Fall?
Enthusiasts are asking the same question: When will the Model Y L reach North America?
Recent reports point to production ramp-up at Giga Texas potentially starting in August or September 2026, with a possible fall launch. Expected pricing around $53,990 — slotting nicely below the Performance Model Y and filling the gap left by paused Model S/X production in some views.
It would bring the same 2-2-2 layout, adaptive suspension, larger rear screen, and V2L functionality to American buyers. Many current Model Y owners say they would trade up immediately for the extra space and versatility.
Final Verdict
The Tesla Model Y L successfully addresses two long-standing requests from buyers: a usable third row and V2L capability — all while improving range, comfort, and refinement.
In Australia, it’s already helping the Model Y dominate EV sales charts. If the US launch happens as rumoured this fall, it could become one of Tesla’s strongest family offerings yet — a true “Goldilocks” three-row EV that’s spacious without being overly expensive or truck-like.
Would you wait for the Model Y L, or is the current Model Y still enough? Let us know in the comments.
