The massively popular compact SUV, the Model Y, has been recently spotted in a new stretched version rallying near the legendary Nürburging racetrack in Germany. The less-sporty, long-wheelbase (LWB) variant that was leaked in China last month has now been spotted testing in Europe, sparking speculation that it may ultimately appear outside Asia.
The Tesla Model Y Long Wheelbase gives a tremendous footprint expansion of the conventional version:
- Length overall: 4,976 mm (+186 mm / +7.3 in)
- Wheelbase: 3040 mm (+150 mm / +5.9 in)
This additional room is designed for backseat luxury, which is of high concern in the Chinese market, as passengers often travel with a driver. The current Model Y already has good passenger space given its compact SUV theme, but the LWB offering paves the way to a true 6-seat car with a practical 3rd row, which is a vast improvement over the optional third row, albeit with limited space in the current model.
Design Tweaks Behind the C-Pillar
The LWB version of Model Y has no radical differences at first sight. The majority of the design modifications are focused on the direction of the C-pillar:
An extended doorside at the rear as opposed to a standard Y. The roofline is a bit extended in order to fit the longer cabin. Between the back door and the wheel arch is a small bit of body work, rather than the door cropping right against the arch. Minor changes at the back, and a certain rear spoiler
Tesla has left camouflage on the rear quarter and sections of the nose. The front seems to have the same style as the Juniper refresh Model Y, but the wrap could just be an over of previous testing designs.
New 19-inch wheels have been seen in spy shots; however, these were being concealed during testing. Our prototype was outfitted with Continental EcoContact 7S tires–rubber with area bent more toward efficiency and comfort than it is toward the track, which proves the point to the commuter- and family-oriented goal of this model.
Tesla Model Y Long Wheelbase Spied Testing Near Germany's Famed Race Track. Read: https://t.co/NTAruYVFIZ #industrynews #carnews
— CarBuzz (@CarBuzzcom) August 11, 2025
Although high-performance models may be the first things people think of when it comes to performing Nurburgring tests, it is no surprise that day-to-day models also go through it in the quest for survival. The number of turns, altitude changes, and speedy stretches there are in the track make it a rigorous condition to be used to assess the dynamics of vehicles, as well as their stability and ride comfort. The automakers may perform the runs during industry test days, thus eliminating any concern about public traffic.
Aimed at China But With Global Potential
Tesla has made this LWB Model Y as a more Chinese offering, where the longer variants of cars or SUVs have been among the favorite variants of people looking to buy cars at a higher price, finding the backseat more comfortable than the regular version. The other markets, however, have their practical advantage of the additional space apparent.
In the U.S., the Model Y has been offered with a third row before, but the space has been so limited that it’s often compared to jump seats in 1990s compact pickups. The LWB also gains more than seven inches of cabin length by moving its third row; it may consequently prove to be useful to older children or petite-challenged adults- something that will extend its market.
