Tesla Model Y L stretches to six seats from $83,900

Tesla has announced the first-ever Model Y L, a longer six-seat variant of its best-selling electric SUV, available for order in New Zealand.

The Model Y L features a 150mm longer wheelbase, redesigned bodywork, and a premium six-seat interior configuration with captain’s chairs in the second row. It will be priced at $83,900 plus on-road costs in New Zealand, with deliveries expected from the second quarter of 2026.

The extended model represents Tesla’s first significant expansion of the Model Y range since the updated “Juniper” version launched in 2025. It will be available exclusively in Premium All Wheel Drive specification and has been awarded a 5-Star ANCAP safety rating.

Larger dimensions and design changes

The Model Y L stretches to 4969mm in overall length – 177mm longer than the standard five-seat Model Y – while maintaining the same 2129mm width. The vehicle is also 44mm taller at 1668mm, creating additional interior space for the third row of seats.

Tesla has redesigned the C-pillar with a higher roofline and added a rear spoiler inspired by the Performance model. The extended version features distinct 19-inch Machina 2.0 wheels exclusive to the Model Y L, along with a new “Cosmic Silver” exterior colour option.

At the rear, the “Y” badge is accompanied by two shadow lines to distinguish the extended version from the standard model.

Six-seat interior configuration

The Model Y L’s interior centres around an all-new seating layout with electrically adjustable captain’s chairs in the second row. These seats feature heating, ventilation, power adjustment for fore-aft and recline positions, plus powered armrests that retract into side panels when not in use.

The third row provides two additional heated seats with power-folding capability and adjustable headrests. Both second and third-row seats can be electronically folded via buttons in the boot or through the vehicle’s display screens.

Front seats gain ventilation alongside heating, plus 14-way power adjustment including electrically adjustable thigh support and memory functions for the driver’s seat. A new “Zen Grey” interior colour option is available alongside the standard black trim.

Enhanced technology and features

The Model Y L includes a larger 16-inch central touchscreen compared to the standard Model Y, plus an 8-inch rear screen for second-row passengers. The audio system features 18 speakers plus a subwoofer for a total of 19 speakers.

Wireless phone charging capability has been upgraded to 50 watts on the driver’s side, with active cooling via a fan and air circulation slot. The passenger side charging pad remains at 30 watts.

Tesla has added continuous variable damping suspension with two selectable modes – “Balanced” and “Rear Comfort” – to accommodate the extended wheelbase and additional passenger capacity.

Performance and range specifications

The Model Y L delivers 378kW maximum power and 590Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0–100km/h in 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 201km/h. WLTP range is rated at 681km from the high-capacity lithium-ion battery using nickel manganese cobalt technology.

DC fast charging supports up to 250kW maximum power, while the vehicle weighs 2088kg and can tow up to 1588kg when braked or 750kg unbraked.

Cargo capacity totals 2539 litres with all rear seats folded, or 536 litres with all seats in use. The flexible boot flooring can be magnetically connected to the third-row seat backs for deeper luggage storage or levelled for a flat loading surface.

Vehicle-to-Load capability

The Model Y L becomes the first Tesla model in Australia and New Zealand to offer Vehicle-to-Load functionality through a Tesla adaptor. The system can supply up to 3.3kW of power to external devices and appliances, operating until the battery reaches 10% state of charge.

The technology enables the Model Y L to power domestic appliances, electronics, or even charge another vehicle through vehicle-to-vehicle capability.

Market positioning

At $83,900 excluding on-road costs, the Model Y L sits $6000 above the Long Range All Wheel Drive Model Y ($77,900) and $17,000 below the Performance variant ($100,900). The pricing positions it as a premium family option within Tesla’s New Zealand lineup.

Tesla backs the Model Y L with a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty for standard use, plus an eight-year or 192,000km battery warranty with minimum 70% capacity retention.

The Tesla configurator is now live for New Zealand customers, with deliveries anticipated from the second quarter of 2026.