First Glimpse: Tesla's 2027 Model Y L Poised to Replace the Iconic Model X

Tesla has introduced the 2027 Model Y L, which steps into the lineup as the roomiest model following the discontinuation of the Model X. Though not classified as a true midsize luxury SUV, the Model Y L provides Tesla buyers with a much-needed option for a more spacious third row, a feature that was lost when the larger Model X was canceled. This new model, which has been available in other markets since the previous summer, makes its debut in America as the Premium Launch Edition, priced at $63,630.

When comparing its dimensions to the now-discontinued Model X SUV, the Model Y L is surprisingly similar in size, despite its more compact designation. The Model Y Premium is 2.7 inches shorter in length and just 0.3 inch shorter in height than its late sibling. However, it rides on a wheelbase that is three inches longer, suggesting a different interior layout designed to maximize space.

Both the Model X and the Model Y L are configured to seat up to six passengers in a 2+2+2 arrangement. Interior space, particularly headroom, is quite competitive between the two models. The Model Y L's front row offers 0.2 inch less headroom than the Model X, but it gains 0.9 inch more headroom in both the second and third rows. Legroom figures are also closely matched; the Model X provides 41.2 inches in the front, 39.8 inches in the second, and 32.3 inches in the third row, while the Model Y L offers 41.8 inches, 39.7 inches, and 31.0 inches, respectively, across its three rows.

Despite their similarities in passenger volume, there is a notable difference in front-end packaging and cargo capacity. The more compact Model Y L sacrifices some frunk capacity, offering up to 4.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which is 2.4 cubic feet less than what the Model X provided. Interestingly, both three-row luxury SUVs match each other precisely with 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space available behind the third row.

The Model Y L truly shines in cargo versatility when the third row is folded flat. In this configuration, it offers a substantial 38.0 cubic feet of cargo volume, giving it an advantage of 2.8 cubic feet over the Model X. However, this lead reverses when comparing space behind the front seats; the Model X provides 2.4 cubic feet more than the Model Y L's 85.6 cubic feet. For additional context, the standard five-seat Model Y has 29.0 cubic feet behind the second row and 71.4 cubic feet with that row folded.

In terms of performance and range, current information relies solely on Tesla's estimates for the Model Y L, and on paper, it does not quite match the Model X. The Model Y L's estimated range of 325 miles falls 27 miles short of the Model X's best figure. Furthermore, its estimated 4.4-second sprint to 60 mph is 0.6 second slower compared to Tesla's claims for the Model X. These differences are attributed to the Model X's larger original design, which allowed for more powerful electric motors that did not compromise cargo volume, as well as additional space upfront for packaging HVAC components.