Tesla’s Seven-Seater SUV Set to Hit Australian Shores
Tesla is gearing up to reintroduce a three-row SUV option to the Australian market, with the upcoming Model YL appearing in Australian Government certification documents. This development strongly suggests a local launch is imminent, potentially within the current year. Building on the popular Model Y platform, the Model YL promises expanded seating capacity and a more commanding presence.
Design and Dimensions: A Stretched and Elevated Proposition
The Model YL is essentially a lengthened version of the standard Model Y. Its wheelbase has been extended by a significant 150mm, bringing it to a total of 3040mm. This additional length translates directly into space for a third row of seating. To accommodate this, the second row is no longer a bench seat but features a pair of individual captain’s chairs, offering a more premium and individualised experience for passengers. However, the signature steeply sloping roofline of the Model Y remains, which might impact headroom for those in the rearmost seats.
In terms of overall dimensions, the Model YL measures 4969mm in length. This positions it firmly within the large SUV segment, making it just 3mm longer than a Toyota Kluger. While it’s still 67mm shorter than the departed Tesla Model X, it is also around 140mm narrower. Compared to its five-seat sibling, the Model YL sits 34mm higher, gains 2mm of ground clearance to reach 169mm, and maintains the same width. Interestingly, it achieves this while featuring a 20mm wider front track and a 12mm narrower rear track.
Interior and Practicality: More Space, More Versatility
The expanded dimensions of the Model YL don’t just benefit passenger capacity; they also translate to increased luggage space. Tesla claims a substantial 2539 litres of cargo volume for the Model YL, a significant increase from the 2138 litres offered in five-seat versions. The added dimensions also contribute to a higher kerb weight, with the Model YL tipping the scales at 2088kg, an increase of 96kg over its smaller counterpart.
Distinguishing the Model YL from the standard Model Y are not only its extended body but also unique alloy wheel designs and specific badging, signalling its enhanced capabilities.
Powertrain and Performance: Familiar Power, Enhanced Efficiency
The certification documents indicate that the Australian-market Model YL will utilise the same dual-motor all-wheel-drive electric powertrain and battery as the Premium Long Range AWD variant. This setup delivers a combined power output of 378kW. On Tesla’s Chinese website, the Model YL is quoted with an impressive 0-100km/h acceleration time of 4.5 seconds.
While Tesla doesn’t typically publicise specific power and torque figures for individual motors, a filing with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) revealed outputs of 142kW for the front electric motor and 198kW for the rear.
Reports suggest the Model YL was approved for the European market in December 2025, featuring an 88kWh battery that offers a WLTP-certified range of 681km. For comparison, the Australian-market Model Y Premium Long Range AWD currently offers 600km of WLTP range and a claimed 0-100km/h time of 4.8 seconds.
Pricing and Features: A Premium Offering
In China, the Model Y L is priced from ¥339,000 (approximately A$72,800), making it about ¥25,500 (A$5500) more expensive than the equivalent standard Model Y. Standard equipment in the Chinese market includes a premium 18-speaker sound system, a large 16-inch central touchscreen, and an 8.0-inch rear touchscreen for climate control adjustments. A powered tailgate and adaptive LED headlights are also part of the standard package.
The second-row captain’s chairs in the Model YL are a highlight, offering heating, ventilation, and power adjustment, complete with power-adjustable armrests. The third-row two-seat bench is also heated and features power-folding functionality for ease of access and storage. Tesla has also indicated that the suspension has been upgraded, incorporating continuously variable damping for improved ride comfort and handling.
Strategic Move for Tesla in Australia
The arrival of the Model YL marks Tesla’s first three-row SUV offering in Australia since the Model X was discontinued locally in 2020. It is expected to be imported from China, which currently serves as the manufacturing hub for all Australian-market Teslas, with the exception of the Model Y Performance variant.
This expansion of the Model Y lineup comes at a time when Tesla is facing increased competition in the electric vehicle market, particularly in China, from burgeoning rivals such as BYD, Xiaomi, and Xpeng. These manufacturers are rapidly expanding their EV offerings and often present compellingly priced alternatives. While Tesla has recently confirmed the discontinuation of the Model S and Model X globally, it continues to bolster its Model Y, Model 3, and the upcoming Cybertruck lineups. The introduction of the Model YL, alongside a new entry-level Standard variant of the Model Y in some markets (though not yet confirmed for Australia), signals Tesla’s commitment to diversifying its SUV portfolio and catering to a broader range of consumer needs.
MORE: Explore the Tesla Model Y showroom
