Chongqing — Tesla launched its new six-seat version, Model Y L, in China on August 19, drawing mixed reviews from customers. The vehicle's starting price is 339,000 yuan (about 47,200 USD), with deliveries expected to begin in September. 

The main upgrade is the slightly larger body size and the addition of a third-row seat to meet the family's travel needs. Additionally, the Model Y L offers a driving range comparable to the Long Range version of the Model Y.

On August 19, consumers experienced the Model Y L at a Tesla retail store in Chongqing. (Photo/Luo Huxin)

On the afternoon of the launch, Huxin Luo, a reporter for Bridging News, visited a Tesla showroom in Chongqing to experience the Model Y L display vehicle. Several customers were on-site, trying out the car and sharing their views on the third-row space. Despite the six-seat configuration, many customers noted that the third-row seats still felt tight, primarily suitable for emergency use.

Mr. Wang (a pseudonym), a Tesla owner, commented that the third-row seats are only suitable for children or elderly passengers. Mr. Zhao (a pseudonym), who had already placed an order for the Model Y and was considering switching to the Model Y L, noted that although it is designed as a six-seater, it is practically used more as a large four-seater.

Mr. Li, a non-Tesla owner, remarked that while the third-row space is narrow, it has been slightly improved, making it more suitable for short trips for two people. However, he did not find the vehicle compelling enough to spark a strong purchase interest. Additionally, some customers expressed dissatisfaction with the cramped rear seat space.

In extreme conditions, if the second-row seats are pushed as far back as possible and the seatbacks are reclined to their limit, the third-row seats are almost impossible to accommodate an average-sized adult. In this case, passengers can only sit at an angle, with their legs positioned at the entrance to the third row, resulting in a very tight space.

When the second-row seats were adjusted to a normal position, the reporter, who is 187 cm tall, found that his left leg had about three fingers' distance from the back of the front seat, while his right leg was positioned at the entrance. (Photo/Luo Huxin)

Under normal circumstances, with the second-row seat and backrest at a comfortable angle, an adult can sit in the third-row seats. The reporter, who is 187cm tall, experienced about three fingers of space between his knee and the front seat, with one leg placed in the entrance area. The head had roughly three fingers of clearance from the roof. While short trips were not uncomfortable, long-distance travel may reduce comfort due to the limited space.

Despite the third-row space not meeting initial expectations, some customers still showed strong interest in purchasing the vehicle. Sales staff at the showroom revealed that the new model could be considered the top configuration of the Model Y series.

Mr. Zhao stated that if the long-range version of the Model Y were priced around 300,000 yuan, he might hesitate. However, with the Y L priced similarly and offering more space, he decided to go for it. His main driving needs involve short city trips, and he does not require an overly spacious interior.

Compared to the standard version of Model Y, Model Y L is 4976mm in length, extended by 179mm. (Photo/Luo Huxin)

According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, Tesla sold 432,000 vehicles in China from January to July 2025, marking a 13.7% year-on-year decline. The release of Model Y L further enriches Tesla's product lineup in China, officially entering the market of large six-seat SUVs in China. This market is highly competitive, with several strong contenders.

Li Auto, a leading Chinese automaker, launched its all-electric i8 model on July 29, priced competitively against the Model Y L, with deliveries starting August 20. Rivals include NIO's ONVO L90 and Aito's M8 electric version.

Li Auto recently faced public controversy after a crash test video showed the i8 colliding with an 8-ton Dongfeng truck. While the i8 sustained minimal damage, Dongfeng alleged the test was misleading and threatened legal action. Following a temporary settlement, renewed online attacks deepened the dispute, prompting CEO Li Xiang to reaffirm the company's stance against external pressure.