The Model Y L is the long-wheelbase, 6-seat version of Tesla‘s Model Y SUV. Priced at Rs 61.99 lakh (ex-showroom), it costs Rs 11.10 lakh more than the rear-wheel-drive Model Y. It is also pricier than rivals such as the BMW iX1 LWB and BYD Sealion 7. But does the Y L justify that premium? Here’s how it stacks up.

Reasons to buy the Tesla Model Y L

Spacious and quiet

Extra length frees up more room, while its cabin is remarkably hushed

With a 3,040mm wheelbase, the Model Y L is 150mm longer between the axles than the standard Model Y. It’s also 40mm taller, freeing up noticeably more space on the inside. The Y L is a 6-seater with front seats that are comfy and get extended under-thigh support. The individual captain’s chairs in the middle row are very comfortable and feature powered armrests, plus heating and cooling functions. Passengers seated here won’t complain about legroom or headroom.

Adding to their convenience is an 8-inch touchscreen capable of playing videos, plus cupholders and charging ports. Unlike many three-row offerings, the third row of the Model Y L has enough space for adults to sit in reasonable comfort. The inclusion of dedicated AC vents, cupholders and Type-C ports comes in handy as well.

Another pro here is the Model Y L’s boot, which is rated at 420 litres with all seats up – this grows to a capacious 1,076 litres with the third row folded. Then there’s some more space under the boot floor, and a 117-litre frunk, should you need even more luggage space. Refinement is another strong point of this cabin. It’s remarkably quiet, thanks to the double-glazed windows that shut out most of the wind, tyre and road noise.

Loaded with tech

Long list of features will keep tech-savvy folks entertained

Taking centre stage on the otherwise minimalistic dashboard is the massive 16-inch touchscreen, which is easily among the sharpest and most responsive units around. Its integrated Grok AI assistant is capable of handling tasks such as setting the climate control, along with plotting routes on the navigation system and of course, finding suitable chargers. The assistant understands multiple languages and also learns the user’s preferences over time.

The Tesla Model Y L’s feature highlights include an 18-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, dual wireless chargers, multi-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic glass roof. The front and middle-row seats are heated, ventilated and powered, while the third-row seats get a heated function too. Safety kit includes 9 airbags, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and high-definition surround-view cameras. As with every Tesla, the Model Y L can also receive over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Brisk performance, composed ride

Dual-motor Model Y L is seriously quick for a family car

Where the standard Model Y is rear-wheel drive only, the Y L uses two motors and all-wheel drive (AWD). While Tesla hasn’t released official power figures, it’s estimated to output 514hp and 590Nm of torque. Tesla also claims a 0-100kph time of 4.5 seconds, which is quick for a two-tonne SUV. The Model Y L doesn’t feel intimidating to drive, with power building smoothly and the AWD system providing plenty of grip. In addition to the ‘Chill’ drive mode, the Y L also gets a ‘Sport’ mode.

There are no issues overtaking slower-moving traffic, as the Model Y L gets past them effortlessly. The regenerative braking is smooth as well. When you’re ambling around town, the ‘Standard’ regen setting is more than adequate and progressive, so you can drive without stepping on the brake pedal most of the time. The revised suspension of the Model Y L also gets adaptive dampers for better control over body movements and a more composed ride over the standard model.

Long range

Y L has the legs over the standard Model Y

The Model Y L uses an NMC battery pack estimated to be rated at 88kWh, as Tesla doesn’t usually publish the official battery capacity. The American brand does claim a WLTP range of 681km for the Model Y L, which is more than that of the rear-wheel-drive Model Y. DC fast charging of up to 250kW is supported, while AC charging is rated at 11kW. Plug it into a Tesla Supercharger, and the Model Y L can gain up to 288km of range in 15 minutes.

Reasons not to buy the Tesla Model Y L

Big footprint, low clearance

Large dimensions and low ground clearance call for extra care in town

The Model Y L’s large dimensions make driving it in tight spaces a bit of a chore. Despite the light steering, its large turning circle makes parking this Tesla quite a tricky affair. Another issue is the ground clearance, or lack thereof. At just 166mm (unladen), large speed breakers need to be tackled carefully to avoid scraping the underbody.

Over-reliance on the touchscreen

Even basic functions are buried in menus

Unless you’re tech-savvy, the lack of physical buttons or shortcuts will get on your nerves. Almost every function on the Model Y L is controlled through the touchscreen. Simple tasks like changing the climate settings, adjusting the mirrors or opening the frunk all require you to dig through menus. Getting used to this setup will take time, and it can easily become distracting while driving.

Hot cabin, awkward third-row access

Large glass area and third-row access come with their own cons

The Tesla Model Y L doesn’t get any blinds for its windows or a cover for its massive glass roof – instead making do with a tint. Considering the expansive glass area, this cabin heats up quickly on sunny days. The rear windscreen does without any tints, which only adds to the problem for third-row passengers.

Getting to this last row is a cumbersome task, requiring you to squeeze in between the narrow gap of the middle-row seats. The seats are also slow to fold out of the way. Once you’re sat in the third row, you’ll have to assume a knees-up position.