The long-awaited Tesla Model Y L has finally arrived!

Launched on August 19th, the new Model Y L is available in a single configuration priced at $46,700 (¥339,000). Deliveries are scheduled to begin in September.

Key Highlights

1. Extended Range: Offers a CLTC-rated range of 751 km (467 miles).

2. High Efficiency: Energy consumption of just 12.8 kWh per 100 km.

3. Spacious Interior: Measures 4976mm long with a 3040mm wheelbase and features a 6-seat layout.

4. Superior Driving Dynamics: Accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. It employs front double-wishbone and rear multi-link independent suspension, CDC continuous damping control adaptive dampers, and all-wheel drive.

5. Advanced Autopilot: The Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, an $8,800 (¥64,000) option, delivers impressive performance with smooth, human-like driving maneuvers that inspire confidence.

6. Top-Tier Safety: Built on Tesla's safety foundations with a rigid body shell structure, extensive high-strength steel, and nine airbags.

How does the Model Y L differ from the standard Model Y?

While it might be tempting to view the Model Y L as simply a stretched Model Y, a closer examination reveals comprehensive upgrades focused on space and comfort, all while preserving Tesla's core strengths in efficiency, driving dynamics, and autonomous technology. Below, we compare the all-wheel-drive versions of both models to highlight their key differences.

Model Y L: Larger, Heavier, and Slightly Less Efficient

The front fascia is identical, but the side profile reveals the most significant changes. The passenger cabin is notably longer; the roofline on the standard Model Y slopes down sharply after the B-pillar, whereas the Model Y L's profile is more elongated and balanced.

The rear section is also taller and features a more prominent spoiler for a sportier look, though the overall design language, including the diffused full-width taillight, remains unchanged.

The Model Y L measures 4976/1920/1668mm (L/W/H) with a 3040mm wheelbase. Compared to the Model Y (4797/1920/1624mm, 2890mm wheelbase), this represents an increase of 179mm in length, 44mm in height, and 150mm in wheelbase. While passenger space is increased overall, cargo capacity in the trunk is nearly halved.

A key question is the usability of the third row. In our experience, with the second row in a normal position, there's about a fist's width of knee room in the third row. However, the seat cushion is quite low, offering poor thigh support due to a raised floor section that reduces space, resulting in a compromised seating experience.

Surprisingly, despite its larger size, the Model Y L boasts a lower drag coefficient of 0.216 Cd versus the Model Y's 0.22 Cd, aiding efficiency. However, its increased weight leads to slightly higher energy consumption.

Powertrain specs show a minor 9kW power increase over the Model Y, utilizing a front induction and rear permanent magnet motor setup. The heavier curb weight results in a 0.2-second slower 0-100 km/h time.

Larger Battery and Upgraded Adaptive Suspension

The Model Y L features a larger 82 kWh battery (up from 78.4 kWh), delivering a 751 km range, nearly identical to the Long Range AWD Model Y's 750 km.

Both models share a dual-motor AWD system and suspension layout (front double-wishbone, rear multi-link). The key upgrade is the Model Y L's CDC adaptive dampers, which improve ride comfort by filtering out small vibrations and enhance stability with better body control at high speeds.

It also uses a mixed tire setup (255-width front, 275-width rear vs. 255 all around on the Model Y), increasing the rear contact patch for better high-speed stability.

Similar Tech, Enhanced Comfort and a Bigger Screen

The interior upgrades go beyond just adding seats. The central touchscreen is larger at 16 inches. The front seats are newly designed, more sporty, and feature adjustable headrests, leg supports, heating, and ventilation. The second row gets two independent seats with power adjustment (fore/aft and recline), heating, and ventilation. The third-row seats offer electric backrest adjustment and heating.

The audio system is upgraded with 19 speakers, including a subwoofer—three more than the Model Y.

Tesla also claims significant reductions in wind, road, and tire noise.

For autonomy, the Model Y L is equipped with 8 cameras and a single AI 4 chip (720 TOPS), supporting Highway and City NOA functionality, which remains an $8,800 (¥64,000) option.

Conclusion

The Model Y L offers a more balanced and attractive design, greater space, superior comfort, and significantly enhanced features for a price premium of just $3,500 (¥25,500). This makes it the model with higher overall value and the more compelling choice for buyers seeking a premium electric SUV experience.

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