I Checked Out Tesla’s New Model YL, Standard Y, Model 3 In Person — Here’s What Surprised Me
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Tesla’s newly released Model Y Long‑Range (YL) and the Standard‑range Model Y and Model 3 were examined in person at a Superior, Colorado dealership. The YL’s launch edition starts at $61,990 with roughly $11,000 of standard options, positioning it about $3,000 above the anticipated $53,000 base price once the launch trim ends. While the YL’s price undercuts the Model X and rivals minivans, its interior space remains comparable to the X and falls short of traditional three‑row SUVs such as the Grand Highlander or Chevy Tahoe. The second‑row seats gain heated/cooled functions and adjustable headrests, but the third row lacks cooling, offers limited legroom, and is difficult to access because the middle seats do not slide forward. Ride quality is softer than the 2026 Premium Y, thanks to electronically controlled dampers, and Full‑Self‑Driving (supervised) performed flawlessly on a brief test drive. The Standard‑range Y mirrors the rear‑wheel‑drive version owned by the reviewer’s daughter, sounding louder and lacking premium amenities, though its $6,000 price gap may appeal to budget‑conscious buyers.
💡 Why It Matters
- · The YL’s pricing strategy forces families to weigh a true three‑row EV against established minivan space, potentially reshaping the EV market’s appeal to larger households.