A Third, Larger Tesla Model Y Variant Could Debut This Year
We've been waiting a long time for more affordable Teslas, but it seems that the automaker is now looking in the opposite direction. The low-cost Model Y has been delayed, but according to a post on X, Tesla may be on the verge of launching a new variant with more luxurious seating for adults. According to the tweet posted by hacking engineer @greentheonly, a six-seater Model Y has been revealed in firmware, and the code hints that it may be offered globally, not just in China.
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More Space And More Comfortable Seats
The Model Y's 2025.20 update references the six-seater, and with Chinese buyers prioritizing rear legroom, it's no wonder that rumors of such a vehicle have been circulating for a while. Since the code was found in a domestic Model Y, it may not be exclusive to China, so if it comes here, what can we expect? The prevalent theory is that the wheelbase will be extended to accommodate captain's chairs in the middle row, and possibly by as much as 5.9 inches. As Not A Tesla App points out, a 2+2+2 layout would not only be logical, but would also provide reasonable room in the third row. Since the Model X doesn't get armrests with its six-seater configuration, it's unlikely that the cheaper Model Y will, although the option will add thousands to the $46,000 base price.
This Version May Struggle To Land Here
The 2+2+2 layout would allow Tesla to fit a center console in the second row, which should further enhance the feeling of luxury, but will buyers be willing to shell out extra for a car that looks almost identical from the outside? That remains to be seen, but Tesla may begin to border on oversaturation of the model if there aren't enough differences. A seven-seater Model Y is also on the way with an almost useless third row (at least for the average adult), and one can't help but wonder if these new seating layouts are a lackluster attempt at boosting sales of a car that was once the best-selling on the planet but is now seeing a decline in popularity. Until we see the new Model Y variants later this year (assuming the self-imposed timeline is adhered to), we can't pass fair judgment.
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