America is finally getting a larger Tesla Model Y electric SUV
The largest version of Tesla's most popular vehicle is coming to America after nearly a year of being sold in China.
The Tesla Model Y L is a three-row SUV that can seat six passengers. Since Tesla is no longer producing Model X midsize electric SUVs, the Model Y L is the only brand-new Tesla EV with a six-seat configuration on the American market.
Tesla's Model Y L opens up a new segment for the dynamic automaker in America. Here's what drivers need to know about the new EV.
What is the Tesla Model Y L?
The Tesla Model Y L is a long-wheelbase version of the Model Y compact electric SUV. It comes with two rows of seats in the rear and is around 7 inches longer than the original Model Y. Tesla began selling the larger Model Y L in China in 2025.
Tesla's Model Y L is designed for larger families who need a third row of seats. This version of the Model Y allows the EV to fill the void that the midsize Model X is leaving behind, since Tesla is ceasing production of the Model S and X.
How much does the Tesla Model Y L cost?
The Tesla Model Y L Premium Launch Series AWD starts at $61,990 before taxes and fees. That's $22,000 more than the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive ($39,990).
Tesla's EV has 14.8 cubic feet of space behind its third row of seats and 38 cubic feet of space behind its second row. It comes with a special door trim puddle light, interior and exterior badging, and sill plates. Tesla will likely introduce more Model Y L trims after the Launch Series arrives.
It has 325 miles of driving range and a more luxurious interior than the smaller Model Y electric SUV.
When will the Tesla Model Y L come out?
Tesla will begin delivering Model Y L EVs sometime between October and November 2026, according to the official website. Buyers must pay a nonrefundable $250 order fee to preorder the electric SUV.
Model Y L Launch Series EVs will include traffic-aware cruise control, a 12-month Full-Self Driving (Supervised) trial, and 12 free months of Tesla Supercharging (terms and conditions apply).
Buyers can add accessories like roof racks ($500), center console trays ($35), and more through Tesla's website.
Why the Tesla Model Y L matters to the American auto industry
Automakers have yet to crack the code when it comes to a wildly successful midsize electric SUV. The Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 have great potential, but Tesla EVs remain the best-selling electric vehicles in America. If American car buyers embrace the larger Model Y L the way they have the Model 3 sedan and Model Y compact electric SUV, the Y L could be a sales hit.
Furthermore, Tesla is filling the gap that the Model X is leaving behind with the Model Y L. This leaves competitors little room to dominate the segment. Tesla isn't letting rival EVs take up market share without a fight in any segment, from small electric cars to full-size electric pickup trucks.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at CSingh@Gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: America is finally getting a larger Tesla Model Y electric SUV
Reporting by Charles Singh , USA TODAY / USA TODAY
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This story was originally published July 7, 2026 at 4:54 PM.