Tesla has officially confirmed that a new six-seat variant of its popular electric SUV, the Model Y L, will be available in Australia and New Zealand starting in 2026. The announcement was made through a media release issued by Tesla Australia and New Zealand, as reported by techAU.
Expanded Seating Capacity for Australian Market
The introduction of the Model Y L is set to broaden the appeal of Tesla’s SUV lineup, catering to consumers who require additional passenger space. This elongated version of the standard Model Y is designed with a longer body and an extended wheelbase to comfortably accommodate a third row of seating.
Production of the Model Y L has already commenced at Tesla’s Gigafactory in Shanghai, primarily serving the Chinese market. Crucially for right-hand-drive markets, the vehicle will be manufactured in configurations suitable for countries like Australia and New Zealand.
Innovative 2-2-2 Seating Configuration
Tesla Australia and New Zealand specified that the Model Y L will feature seating for a total of six passengers. This configuration deviates from a typical seven-seat layout, opting instead for a 2-2-2 arrangement. This means two individual seats in the second row, which is intended to enhance passenger comfort and provide easier access to the third row.
The company stated, “As shown in pictures from its launch in China, Model Y L will have a new seating configuration providing room for 6 occupants.” This design prioritizes both space and accessibility within the cabin.
Updated Warranty Structure for 2026 Models
In line with the Model Y L’s introduction, Tesla Australia and New Zealand also confirmed that the vehicle will benefit from the company’s updated warranty policy, effective from 2026.
“As with all new Tesla Vehicles from the start of 2026, the Model Y L will come with a 5-year unlimited km vehicle warranty and 8 years for the battery,” the company announced. This represents an enhancement from the previous four-year or 80,000-kilometer vehicle warranty.
The warranty terms for the battery and drive unit remain consistent with existing models, varying by drivetrain configuration. Rear-wheel-drive variants are covered by an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty, while the Long Range and Performance variants receive an eight-year or 192,000-kilometer coverage.
Pricing and Range Details Forthcoming
While Tesla has confirmed the launch timeline and seating configuration for the Model Y L in Australia, official pricing and range specifications for the Australian market are yet to be released.