Tesla’s new Model Y L, a six-seater SUV making waves in China, has stirred up quite a conversation, particularly concerning its interior space. While Tesla clearly aims for “reasonable space layout” for families, some automotive critics are calling its third-row experience “abysmal.”
This new Model Y L is essentially a refreshed Model Y with a lengthened body and extended wheelbase to accommodate its six-seat configuration. Yet, it keeps that distinctive coupe SUV silhouette, a design choice that often sparks debate about practicality, especially for those relegated to the back seats.
Grace Tao, Tesla’s Global Vice President overseeing government affairs, public relations, and marketing in Greater China, recently tried to demonstrate the Model Y L’s roominess. She released a video showcasing six adults, all over 1.8 meters (about 5 feet 11 inches) tall and weighing between 75 to 95 kilograms (165 to 209 pounds), squeezing into the Model Y L. After some impressive maneuvering, they all fit, leading Tao to declare it perfect for families.
Automotive Bloggers Aren’t Buying It
However, this video quickly became fodder for mockery among car enthusiasts and bloggers. Navis-Slow Review, an influential voice with nearly 700,000 followers, didn’t hold back, calling the video’s premise of fitting 1.8-meter tall people a “bit abstract.” He went on to dissect Tao’s claims, highlighting several comfort compromises:
- First Row: Seats reportedly pushed so far forward they barely cleared the B-pillar. This forces front occupants into an uncomfortable choice, either knees hitting the dashboard or the steering wheel.
- Second Row: Passengers appeared to be in a “forced cross-legged” position, shins almost vertical. Not exactly a relaxed ride.
- Third Row: Occupants’ thighs were completely suspended, leading to a “knees-to-chest” posture that would likely cause tailbone pain on even short journeys.
- Headroom: Even with all these contortions, third-row passengers’ heads seemed uncomfortably close to, or even touching, the tailgate.
The Coupe SUV Conundrum
This debate really highlights the ongoing struggle for coupe SUVs. Automakers constantly try to balance sleek, eye-catching design with the practical interior space that families actually need. As the Model Y L begins its deliveries, actual user experiences will be the ultimate judge of whether its extended dimensions truly deliver on the promise of comfortable six-seater travel. It will be interesting to see if this lengthened Model Y can convince the market it’s a genuinely spacious family hauler, or if it will be remembered for its rather ambitious marketing stunts. The competition in the China EV market is fierce, with models like the Xiaomi SU7 and Nio’s Onvo L90 also vying for consumer attention. Ultimately, comfort and usability might just trump clever marketing when it comes to long-term success.
