Tesla launched the Model Y L in China back in August 2025, and it immediately grabbed the attention of families in North America and Europe that had outgrown the standard Model Y. The biggest question was when the larger, more luxurious Model Y L would arrive in other regions.
In the Q3 2025 Earnings Call, Elon mentioned that it would “maybe” make its way to other regions sometime in late 2026. Now, according to recent type-approval documents from the RDW (the Dutch vehicle authority), Tesla has secured approval to bring its 6-seater Model Y L to the European market.
The Model Y L offers some of the latest Tesla features that aren’t available on any other models, such as powered arm rests, ventilated phone chargers, and more. Check out our comparison and features of the Model Y L.
This long-wheelbase variant is now poised for its first launch to a new region, potentially as soon as Q1 2026.
The L Difference: A True Third Row
The Model Y L isn’t just a repackaged Model Y with an extra row crammed into the back, like the old Model Y 7-seater variant. Instead, it is a significantly different vehicle structurally, with an extended wheelbase. The type-approval documents confirm that this is the same Model Y L which launched in China, with the following key changes:
An extended wheelbase of 3,040mm (150mm extension)
An extended total length of 4,976mm (177mm extension)
A true 2-2-2 layout (2 seats x 3 rows)
Here’s how the Model Y L compares to the current Model Y and the Model X. While the Model Y is as long as the Model X, the width of the Model Y L doesn’t change compared to the regular Model Y.
Model Y L | Model Y | Model X | |
|---|---|---|---|
Width | 83.8 in (2,129 mm) | 83.8 in (2,129 mm) | 89.4 in (2,271 mm) |
Length | 195.9 in (4,976 mm) | 188.6 in (4,790 mm) | 199.2 in (5,060 mm) |
Height | 65.7 in (1,668 mm) | 63.9 in (1,623 mm) | 66.1 in (1,679 mm) |
Captain’s Chairs
Unlike the 2-3-2 configuration of the old 7-seater, the L variant uses a 2-2-2 layout. The second row features two independent Captain’s chairs with adjustable headrests and powered armrests, creating a center aisle for easy access to the rear seats.
Here’s a quick overview of what each row of seats has to offer:
Front Seats | 2nd Row | 3rd Row | |
|---|---|---|---|
Heated | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Ventilated | Yes | Yes | No |
Adjustable Headrests | Yes | Yes | No |
Adjustable Thigh Support | Yes | No | No |
Armrests | No | Yes, powered | No |
Foldable | No | Yes, powered | Yes, powered |
Comparison Model Y L / Model X
There are significant differences between the Model Y L, the Model Y, and the Model X. While there isn’t a clear winner, the Model Y L has newer features such as thigh support and ventilated second row seats. At the same time, the Model X is wider, creating a larger aisle and more room for front passengers.
Model Y L | Model Y | Model X | |
|---|---|---|---|
Front Seats | |||
Heated | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Ventilated | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Adjustable Headrests | Yes | Yes | No |
Adjustable Thigh Support | Yes | No | No |
Second Row Captain Chairs | |||
Heated | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Ventilated | Yes | No | No |
Adjustable Headrests | Yes | No | No |
Adjustable Thigh Support | No | No | No |
Powered Armrests | Yes | No | No |
Foldable | Yes, powered | Yes, 5-seater | Yes on 5/7 seater, No on 6-seater |
Third Row Seats | |||
Heated | Yes | N/A | Yes |
Ventilated | No | N/A | No |
Foldable | Yes, powered | N/A | Yes, manual |
Battery & Performance
The RDW documents also reveal the exact powertrain details for the version that will make its way to European customers. This includes an 88.2kWh battery pack, rated for an impressive 681 km (~423 mi) WLTP on 19-inch wheels. In addition, it features the same advanced continuous variable damping suspension as the Model Y Performance, making for a silky-smooth ride.
$TSLA
— Tsla Chan (@Tslachan) August 19, 2025
🔥The sense of space in the Model Y L is impressive.
The space in the third row is enough for an adult male to sit in.
And the overhead headroom space is good, too!
The third row seats will also be equipped with two C-type ports.
Check it out in the video! pic.twitter.com/gmGRiuR7MN
Release Date
While Elon hinted at a late 2026 arrival, the completion of EU type approval typically precedes launch by only a few months. As such, we expect that Tesla is likely targeting a launch in late Q1 2026 for the European market.
This would finally position the Model Y L as a direct competitor to larger electric SUVs, offering an affordable Tesla option for larger families without the price tag of a Model X.
