Tesla is on the verge of updating its Model Y, this time with a new version featuring 3 rows and 6 seats, along with an additional design accent: a 15 cm (5.9 inches) longer wheelbase. Earlier, there have been rumors that the updated Model Y would be exclusive to China. Still, according to the 2025.20 code software, other countries may also be seeing the updated Model Y in the near future.
The move is an indication that Tesla is keen to address the needs of more customers, especially those who want more interior room without the need to upgrade to the bigger Model X.
A New Chapter for the Model
Currently, the Model Y is Tesla’s best-selling model globally and leading EV sales in the Chinese market. However, the current design, which could be as limited as a seven-seater in some markets, has not been well received in China due to its compact size that does not meet family and ride-hailing services’ needs. Other domestic competitors such as Nio and Zeekr provide more spacious SUVs at almost similar pricing, which compelled Tesla to bring a longer wheelbase Model Y adapted more for the Chinese market.
$TSLA 🇨🇳 Update regarding Tesla’s three-row six-seater refreshed model Y: wheelbase will be extended by 15 cm 🔥
— TCMesla (@TCMesla) June 17, 2025
To counter this, Tesla seems to be dealing with this with the two proposed new changes: a separate six-seat arrangement and a longer wheelbase to enhance both passenger comfort and convenience. An increase in wheelbase by 15 cm (5.9 inches) will directly increase the rear legroom and the whole cabin ratio, making the third row a feasible option even for adults.
Unpacking the 2025.20 Code Update
Evidence of the refreshed Model Y’s broader launch plans was uncovered through the 2025.20 software update. The observers who carefully analyzed the code found references to the models and configuration parameters associated with a longer wheelbase Model Y and a six-seat model. Remarkably, the setting of the code is not limited to China, implying that a widespread initiative is perhaps in the offing.
This is in line with the increased unification efforts taken recently by Tesla, which aims at centralizing and standardizing its operations of producing vehicles and designing them globally, offering fewer regional differences in vehicles to support the use of flexible platforms that address various local regulations and customer preferences.
Design and Comfort Upgrades
The new six-seater should have the same design in terms of configuration as the one that is prevalent in the Model X, where two-captain chairs are applied in the second row, enabling easier access to the third row. This layout, coupled with the longer wheelbase, would provide a whole lot of additional usable space and better ingress and egress for those in the third row seats.
It can also include interior refinements, such as the revised seat materials, rear climate controls, and even a new infotainment system, aimed at the owners of rear seats. Another possible change that Tesla can introduce is the acoustic optimization to minimize noise inside the cabin and to make long distances less stressful.
Conclusion
The updated six-seater Tesla Model Y will give direct competition to other electric four-row SUVs, including the Rivian R1S, Kia EV9, and Hyundai IONIQ 7 (in development). SuperCharger network, software ecosystem, and performance metrics are the strengths of Tesla since the company is still ahead of much of the competition in these parameters.
The updated Model Y can be just right in terms of price and functionality for its family or purchasers who cannot afford the Model X or do not need it to be so large.
