The front seats in the Model Y L have a different shape. From behind, the front-row headrests appear to be completely integrated into the seat design, but they’re actually adjustable. There is a new 16-inch center touchscreen, slightly larger than the 15.4-inch unit on the current Model Y.

Episode 479 of “Talking Cars With Consumer Reports” covers driving the Tesla Model Y. The podcast panel also discusses what we pay for test cars.

The Tesla Model Y L is almost certainly coming to the U.S., and the timing likely falls in early 2026. While the company hasn’t confirmed it, all signs—from prototype sightings to market demand—point in that direction. For families who felt the standard Model Y was just a bit too tight and the Model X too expensive, the Y L could be the sweet spot.

Tesla is now no longer the default choice for EV buyers, so what's on the menu if you're looking for an electric crossover?

A short 7-mile drive is all this owner needed to notice the differences between his Tesla Model Y Juniper and an older Model 3. The contrast he felt proves just how far Tesla has come in making daily driving more comfortable and refined.