The Tesla Model Y has been the global bestseller because it is relatively affordable, comes with a range, and offers practicality. Tesla has recently taken the next logical step, preparing to launch a new model – the Model Y L, which offers a refinement of the same successful formula, albeit with substantial improvements in terms of comfort, interior design, and driving experience.
Although both cars share a nameplate and general design, such differences are enough to require buyers to pay attention to which model is better suited to their personal needs.
Seat Configuration: 5/7 seats to a 6-seater
The biggest difference is the sitting. The standard Model Y can seat five people, and there is also an option of seven seats, though the third-row seats are closely positioned, and it is ideal to seat children there.
The Model Y L is, however, a six-seat model through and through. The 2nd row replaces the bench with two separate captain chairs with powered armrests, providing a more luxurious feeling. These two rows, as well as the third row, are power-folding and, when folded down flat, create a spacious cargo area that can be used when travelling or camping.
The Model Y L also features more generous dimensions in the third row, providing greater legroom. Adults under 1.78 m in height are reported to have sufficient room to sit, with ample space for their heads. It is a great incremental step towards the impracticality of the cramped third row of the regular Model Y.
6-seater Model Y L vs. standard Model Y
Best size comparison to date pic.twitter.com/jmP4fKcKaM
— The Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) August 18, 2025
Comfort: Greatly Increased in All Rows
Tesla has given special consideration to the seat comfort of the Model Y L. The seats of the standard Model Y are mild and cushy, yet quite simple in comparison with luxury SUVs. The Model Y L is improved with:
- Adjustable headrests
- Power leg rests
- Power lumbar support
- Ventilation and heating
The second-row captain chairs are heated and cooled, with heating in the third row only. In comparison, the standard Model Y has only seat heating on all seating rows, no ventilation, and power leg-rest features.
Such modifications make the Model Y L as close as possible to the level of comfort as in the Model X of Tesla, but at an affordable price.
Interior features of the 6-seater Model Y L:
✅ 2nd row has individual seats
✅ Powered armrests for 2nd row
✅ Additional vents on B-pillar for 2nd row
✅ Vents on C-pillar for 3rd row
✅ 2nd and 3rd rows are power-foldable
✅ Folded 3rd row creates a flat floor
✅ Rear screen… https://t.co/TA8IncgO3Z pic.twitter.com/sT87a9al5E— The Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) August 18, 2025
Cabin Design and Features
The Tesla Model Y and the Model Y L both feature the same minimalist design language of the company; however, the L version has some improvements.
- Dedicated Vents: Model Y is dependent primarily on the front row vents’ air dispensation process. The Model Y L also has second-row B-pillar vents and third-row C-pillar vents to increase cabin airflow.
- Rear Touchscreen: Model Y L has the only feature unique to the model, as the rear display, where passengers have the option to control the climate and entertainment, as in a Model S and Model X.
- White Interior Details: The white interior selected in the Model Y L comes with additional white trim around wireless charging ports, rear handles, and beneath the rear display areas – not available in the default Model Y.
- Bigger Central Display: Model Y uses a 15-inch central display; Model Y L is supposed to have a bigger screen, which is more convenient to use.
Both models also have a glass roof and a black headliner, as well as a classic steering wheel equipped with a stalk, meaning that Tesla is not yet giving the Model Y L the controversial yoke design.
Suspension and Ride Quality Driving Experience
Stiff suspension is ranked among the largest complaints about the typical Model Y. Although responsive, it is jolted on rough roads.
The Model Y L fixes this by providing the feature of Continuous Damping Control suspension, a flexible suspension that responds instantly to the road characteristics. This should be sportier and more refined with no worse handling. This is a significant upgrade to the standard Model Y for family purchasers or buyers who would take a long road trip.
Audio and Technology
The two models are accompanied by the Tesla infotainment system, which performs powerfully, although the Model Y L goes a step higher. It is reported that up to 18 speakers are installed, which provides a significantly higher-quality audio experience than the 14-speaker system in the Model Y.
Model Y L will continue to feature a voice-awakened command of “Hi Tesla” in China that enables passengers to activate voice controls without a button press, an optional complement not found in international standard Model Ys.
Exterior Differences
The two cars are externally similar, but Tesla has added a few distinguishing characteristics to the Model Y L:
- New champagne gold paint option
- Black Tesla logos
- Specific rear spoiler
Such additions render the Model Y L a bit more upscale, but the silhouette never leaves a doubt that it is still a Model Y.
Pricing and Positioning
Though there is no company-announced official price yet, the Model Y L is anticipated to sit between the regular Model Y and Model X. This renders it a desirable alternative to consumers seeking greater space and comfort than that offered by the Model Y but who aren’t ready to pay the premium for a Model X.
In short:
- Model Y is a budget, smart, sporty crossover to drive every day.
- Model Y L: A bigger, more comfortable, high-end SUV on the edge of premium, with six seats.
- Model X: The pinnacle SUV, at an extremely significant cost, with the utmost luxury and performance.
