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Tesla Model Y Juniper

  • Tesla Model Y L Malaysia price confirmed – RM260,000 for 6-seater EV SUV, Cosmic Silver is RM11k extra!

    Tesla Model Y L Malaysia price confirmed – RM260,000 for 6-seater EV SUV, Cosmic Silver is RM11k extra!

    Launched earlier this week, the Tesla Model Y L is finally available to order on the Malaysian website, and with that comes official pricing for the six-seater electric SUV. The car costs exactly as estimated, retailing at a nice round RM260,000 nett, or RM262,615 on-the-road without insurance.

    This makes the L RM17,550 more expensive than the regular Premium Long Range AWD, which is about the same as in Australia – although the reverse is true in Thailand. As with any other Tesla, the car is available with several cost options, including any colour other than the standard Stealth Grey.

    One of the most expensive is the new hero colour called Cosmic Silver, an almost champagne gold hue that replaces Quicksilver and costs a whopping RM11,000, joining the similarly-priced Ultra Red (other colours include Pearl White Multi-Coat and Diamond Black at RM5,000, as well as Glacier Blue at RM7,500). As for the interior, the optional white has been replaced by Zen Grey, remaining at RM5,000 (black is no cost).

    Available solely in Premium AWD trim. the Model Y L is 177 mm longer (4,969 mm) and 44 mm taller (1,668 mm) with a 149 mm longer wheelbase (3,040 mm) than the five-seater Premium model. This frees up space for a pair of third-row seats, with the roofline also being pushed upwards towards the rear to add some decent headroom.

    Step inside and you’ll notice that the second-row bench has been swapped out for captain’s chairs with power-retractable armrests, heating and ventilation, leading to a 2-2-2 seating configuration. The power-folding rearmost seats are also more substantial (with proper headrests) than the third-row pews in the standard seven-seater (2-3-2) version, currently only available in the US and Europe. Meanwhile, the physically larger body delivers a maximum cargo room of 2,539 litres, versus 2,138 litres for the standard Model Y.

    Aside from the slightly hunchbacked roofline, the Model Y L is differentiated on the outside through a jutting rear spoiler and unique 19-inch Machina wheels with a Y-spoke design. You can’t spec the 20-inch Crossflow alloys available on other Model Y Premium models.

    Other new bits include more substantial power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats – now with extendable thigh support – as well as adaptive dampers (first seen on the full-fat Performance model) to replace the standard frequency selective shocks. The sound system has also been expanded from a 15-speaker to an 18-speaker setup, still with a subwoofer. The twin Qi wireless chargers have been upgraded to 50W and now feature cooling via air cond vents.

    Tesla Model Y L Malaysia price confirmed – RM260,000 for 6-seater EV SUV, Cosmic Silver is RM11k extra!

    Beyond all that, the Model Y L is pretty much the same as every other Model Y Premium, with textile interior trim, faux leather upholstery, a 16-inch infotainment touchscreen, an eight-inch second-row touchscreen, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, eight exterior cameras (still no full 360-degree view) and a hands-free opening tailgate.

    In terms of driver assists, the Model Y L continues to come with basic Autopilot, which includes Level 2 semi-autonomous driving functionality. Enhanced Autopilot, which adds automated lane changes, park assist and remote park assist (which Tesla rather facetiously calls Dumb Summon) costs an extra RM16,000, while the dubiously-named (and non-functional in Malaysia) Full Self Driving add-on is double that at RM32,000.

    Aside from the extra space and seats, the Model Y L also gains a larger 82 kWh NMC battery for a range of 681 km on the WLTP cycle, versus 629 km for the Model Y Premium LR AWD. The dual-motor 462 PS (340 kW) setup enables the car to get from zero to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds (two tenths of a second slower than the regular model) on its way to a top speed of 201 km/h.

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y L launched in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive sus, from RM260k est

    Tesla Model Y L launched in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive sus, from RM260k est

    Tesla Malaysia has just launched the Tesla Model Y L starting at an estimated RM260k, making it currently the priciest new Tesla in our market (at least until the Juniper Performance gets here, if it does), sitting above the (standard-wheelbase) RM242,450 Premium Long Range AWD.

    Deliveries are estimated to begin in the second quarter. The Model Y L is 4,976 mm long (+179), 2,129 mm wide (=) and 1,668 mm tall (+44), with a 3,040 mm wheelbase (+150) and a 169 mm ground clearance (+2) – millimetre deviations from the regular Model Y in brackets.

    At 2,088 kg, the L is 96 kg heavier than the heftiest Model Y (PLRAWD), but its redesigned tail and subtle boot lid spoiler (black regardless of body colour) has made it the most aerodynamic Model Y, its 0.216 drag coefficient beating the regular car’s 0.22.

    Tesla Model Y L launched in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive sus, from RM260k est

    From the photos (even official pics seen before), it may look like the L has a bit of a bulbous-head look compared to the regular car – after all, its roofline has indeed been pushed upwards towards the tail to yield more rear headroom. But somehow in the flesh, even when viewed side-on, it really doesn’t look much different from the regular car. You can put your Beluga whale and/or London black cab concerns to rest.

    The champagne gold-like body colour you see here – called Cosmic Silver – is an optional extra exclusive to this model. This hue replaces the usual Quicksilver. Also unique to this model are those 19-inch Machina alloys (with staggered 255/45 front and 275/45 rear tyres; Continental EcoContact 7 S), which are the standard rims.

    The highlight is, of course, six seats in a 2-2-2 formation. The middle two are ‘independent seats’ with power-retractable armrests, heating and ventilation. You may choose to call them captain seats, but don’t confuse them with a luxury MPV’s business-class chairs, because they’re really just individual seats, and they’re relatively narrow. No ottoman, no tray tables and the thin armrests are mostly things you tuck away (in fact they automatically retract when you open the nearest door, then come back up when you close the door) to make it easier for you to walk between the seats to the third row.

    Tesla Model Y L launched in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive sus, from RM260k est

    How is the walk-through to the third row? Be mindful of a rather tall step between the second and third rows (which forces you to crouch more); otherwise, it’s quite painless for 175 cm-tall me. Once seated – thanks to the elongated roofline – headroom is actually better than expected (about three fingers), although leg- and shoulder-room are at a premium and the high third-row floor means your knees are in the air. The third row fits adults, no problem, although they would thank you to keep those journeys short.

    You may choose instead to place kids in the third row, and you’ll see there are Isofix points here. In the seven-seater Model Y available in other markets, which is based on the standard-wheelbase car, the third row has no Isofix and there are flat headrests that retreat flush with the seat backs (necessary to give the seats enough space to fold flat).

    Here, you get proper headrests, and when you fold the third-row seats (electrically, either via switches in the boot or through the screens), the headrests drop forwards to allow the seats to fold flat. When you command the seats back up again, you’ll have to manually pull the headrests back up. Just to be clear, both second- and third-row seats are power-reclinable and power-foldable.

    With the second and third row folded, Tesla claims the L can swallow 2,539 litres of barang, versus the standard-wheelbase Model Y’s 2,138. That’s no surprise since the L is a bigger car; what you want to know is how much you can store behind the third row. In this regard, it’s really not bad – Tesla does not divulge boot space with all seats up, but a couple of carry-on suitcases will not at all be a problem. The under-floor storage is also pretty deep. And of course, there’s always the frunk.

    Up front, you’ll notice the seats are different from the regular Model Y’s – here they’ve got integrated headrests and power-extendable thighs. A black interior is standard; the Zen Grey you see here is optional. The wireless phone chargers here are 50W and 30W (2 x 15W on the regular Model Y), and have active cooling. You get 18 speakers and one subwoofer, beating the PLRAWD’s 15 speakers and one subwoofer, and lesser variants’ nine speakers.

    Here’s another highlight – like the Performance, the Model Y L has adaptive damping (Balanced and Rear Comfort settings). All other current Model Y variants in Malaysia have frequency-selective damping.

    Tesla Model Y L launched in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive sus, from RM260k est

    Beyond all that, the L is pretty much the same as every other Model Y Premium, with textile interior trim, faux leather upholstery, a 16-inch touch-screen, an eight-inch second-row touchscreen, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, eight exterior cameras (still no full 360-degree view) and a hands-free tailgate.

    Now, another thing Tesla never officially discloses is battery capacity, but the L’s WLTP range is 681 km – very close to the Long Range RWD’s 691. So it’s the Model Y variant with the second-longest legs currently. Like the PLRAWD, the L is a two-motor all-wheel drive car – 0-100 km/h is done in five seconds (PLRAWD takes 4.8) and 201 km/h is the top speed (same as all Model Ys). Max charging rates are 250 kW DC and 11 kW AC – status quo.

    On to colours – Stealth Grey is standard; optional are Pearl White, Diamond Black, Glacier Blue, Ultra Red and the aforementioned Cosmic Silver. Six-seaters are quite a niche in Malaysia – other players include Mazdas CX-8 and CX-80, the Jaecoo J8 AWD, the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy, the Zeekr 009 Ultra Luxury and the Kia EV9 6-seater.

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y L previewed in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive damping, launch Apr 1

    Tesla Model Y L previewed in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive damping, launch Apr 1

    Tesla Malaysia not too long ago gave us a sneak peek of the Tesla Model Y L at its Cyberjaya base. This thing began life last year as a China-only model but is now making its way to right-hand drive markets – it’s already in Australia (AU$75k, RM207k) and Thailand (two million baht, RM244k). Malaysia is next – and because the car is only going to be launched this Wednesday (April 1), all we can do over the next 48 hours or so is speculate with regard to the price.

    The L is the range-topping Model Y Down Under, costing AU$6k (RM17k) more than the Premium Long Range AWD, but curiously, in the Land of Smiles, it’s the other way round, being 20k baht (RM2.5k) cheaper than the Premium Long Range AWD. As Malaysia’s PLRAWD is RM242,450, will our L duck under RM240k or hover around RM250k? If it’s going to be the latter, you’re looking at currently the priciest new Tesla in Malaysia – the Juniper Performance isn’t (yet?) here.

    Anyway, let’s look at the car. The Model Y L is 4,976 mm long (+179), 2,129 mm wide (=) and 1,668 mm tall (+44), with a 3,040 mm wheelbase (+150) and a 169 mm ground clearance (+2) – millimetre deviations from the regular Model Y in brackets. At 2,088 kg, the L is 96 kg heavier than the heftiest Model Y (PLRAWD), but its redesigned tail and subtle boot lid spoiler (black regardless of body colour) has made it the most aerodynamic Model Y, its 0.216 drag coefficient beating the regular car’s 0.22.

    From the photos (even official pics seen before), it may look like the L has a bit of a bulbous-head look compared to the regular car – after all, its roofline has indeed been pushed upwards towards the tail to yield more rear headroom. But somehow in the flesh, even when viewed side-on, it really doesn’t look much different from the regular car, which was also parked there for comparison. Really – put your Beluga whale and/or London black cab concerns to rest.

    Tesla Model Y L previewed in Malaysia – stretched 6-seater, 681 km WLTP, adaptive damping, launch Apr 1

    The champagne gold-like body colour you see here – called Cosmic Silver – is an optional extra exclusive to this model. This hue replaces the usual Quicksilver. Also unique to this model are those 19-inch Machina alloys (with staggered 255/45 front and 275/45 rear tyres; Continental EcoContact 7 S). These are the standard rims; it’s not known yet whether you’ll be able to upsize to 20s like on other Model Y variants.

    The highlight is, of course, six seats in a 2-2-2 formation. The middle two are ‘independent seats’ with power-retractable armrests, heating and ventilation. You may choose to call them captain seats, but don’t confuse them with a luxury MPV’s business-class chairs, because they’re really just individual seats, and they’re relatively narrow. No ottoman, no tray tables and the thin armrests are mostly things you tuck away (in fact they automatically retract when you open the nearest door, then come back up when you close the door) to make it easier for you to walk between the seats to the third row.

    How is the walk-through to the third row? Be mindful of a rather tall step between the second and third rows (which forces you to crouch more); otherwise, it’s quite painless for 175 cm-tall me. Once seated – thanks to the elongated roofline – headroom is actually better than expected (about three fingers), although leg- and shoulder-room are at a premium and the high third-row floor means your knees are in the air. The third row fits adults, no problem, although they would thank you to keep those journeys short.

    You may choose instead to place kids in the third row, and you’ll see there are Isofix points here. In the seven-seater Model Y available in other markets, which is based on the standard-wheelbase car, the third row has no Isofix and there are flat headrests that retreat flush with the seat backs (necessary to give the seats enough space to fold flat).

    Here, you get proper headrests, and when you fold the third-row seats (electrically, either via switches in the boot or through the screens), the headrests drop forwards to allow the seats to fold flat. When you command the seats back up again, you’ll have to manually pull the headrests back up. Just to be clear, both second- and third-row seats are power-reclinable and power-foldable.

    With the second and third row folded, Tesla claims the L can swallow 2,539 litres of barang, versus the standard-wheelbase Model Y’s 2,138. That’s no surprise since the L is a bigger car; what you want to know is how much you can store behind the third row. In this regard, it’s really not bad – Tesla does not divulge boot space with all seats up, but a couple of carry-on suitcases will not at all be a problem. The under-floor storage is also pretty deep. And of course, there’s always the frunk.

    Up front, you’ll notice the seats are different from the regular Model Y’s – here they’ve got integrated headrests and power-extendable thighs. A black interior is standard; the Zen Grey you see here is optional. The wireless phone chargers here are 50W and 30W (2 x 15W on the regular Model Y), and have active cooling. You get 18 speakers and one subwoofer, beating the PLRAWD’s 15 speakers and one subwoofer, and lesser variants’ nine speakers.

    Here’s another highlight – like the Performance, the Model Y L has adaptive damping (Balanced and Rear Comfort settings). All other current Model Y variants in Malaysia have frequency-selective damping.

    Beyond all that, the L is pretty much the same as every other Model Y Premium, with textile interior trim, faux leather upholstery, a 16-inch touch-screen, an eight-inch second-row touchscreen, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, eight exterior cameras (still no full 360-degree view) and a hands-free tailgate.

    Now, another thing Tesla never officially discloses is battery capacity, but the L’s WLTP range is 681 km – very close to the Long Range RWD’s 691. So it’s the Model Y variant with the second-longest legs currently. Like the PLRAWD, the L is a two-motor all-wheel drive car – 0-100 km/h is done in five seconds (PLRAWD takes 4.8) and 201 km/h is the top speed (same as all Model Ys). Max charging rates are 250 kW DC and 11 kW AC – status quo.

    On to colours – Stealth Grey is standard; optional are Pearl White, Diamond Black, Glacier Blue, Ultra Red and the aforementioned Cosmic Silver. What do you think of the Tesla Model Y L? You may want to wait for the price before making a full judgement, but for now, like what you see?

    Six-seaters are quite a niche in Malaysia – other players include Mazdas CX-8 and CX-80, the Jaecoo J8 AWD, the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy, the Zeekr 009 Ultra Luxury and the Kia EV9 6-seater.

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y L in Thailand – 6-seater EV SUV with 681 km WLTP range, RM242k; launching in Malaysia soon?

    Tesla Model Y L in Thailand – 6-seater EV SUV with 681 km WLTP range, RM242k; launching in Malaysia soon?

    The Tesla Model Y L is continuing to be rolled out across right-hand-drive markets, making its ASEAN debut at the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) this week. As such, it looks to be more and more likely that the six-seater electric SUV will arrive in Malaysia very soon, although the decision to stagger the launches this time around – which is very un-Tesla – is a rather curious one.

    Anyway, just like in Australia, the Model Y L is offered solely in Premium AWD trim. Compared to the regular Model Y Premium, it’s 177 mm longer (4,969 mm) and 44 mm taller (1,668 mm) with a 149 mm longer wheelbase (3,040 mm). This frees up space for a pair of third-row seats, with the roofline also being pushed upwards towards the rear – giving the car a slightly hunchbacked look – to add a modicum of headroom.

    Step inside and you’ll notice that the second-row bench has been swapped out for captain’s chairs with power-retractable armrests, heating and ventilation, leading to a 2-2-2 seating configuration. The rearmost seats are also more substantial (with proper headrests) than the third-row pews in the standard seven-seater (2-3-2) version, currently only available in the US and Europe. Meanwhile, the physically larger body delivers a maximum cargo room of 2,539 litres, versus 2,138 litres for the standard Model Y.

    On the outside, the Model Y L is differentiated through the optional Cosmic Silver paint – an almost champagne gold hue – that takes the place of the usual Quicksilver. You also get unique 19-inch Machina wheels with a Y-spoke design; you can’t spec the 20-inch Crossflow alloys available on other Model Y Premium models. On the inside, the white interior option has been swapped out for Zen Grey.

    Other new bits include more substantial power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats – now with extendable thigh support – as well as adaptive dampers (first seen on the full-fat Performance model) to replace the standard frequency selective shocks. The sound system has also been expanded from a 15-speaker to an 18-speaker setup, still with a subwoofer.

    Beyond all that, the Model Y L is pretty much the same as every other Model Y Premium, with textile interior trim, faux leather upholstery, a 16-inch infotainment touchscreen, an eight-inch second-row touchscreen, a panoramic glass roof, twin Qi wireless chargers, ambient lighting, eight exterior cameras (still no full 360-degree view) and a hands-free opening tailgate.

    Tesla Model Y L in Thailand – 6-seater EV SUV with 681 km WLTP range, RM242k; launching in Malaysia soon?

    Aside from the extra space and seats, the Model Y L also gains a larger 82 kWh NMC battery for a range of 681 km on the WLTP cycle, versus 629 km for the Model Y Premium AWD. The dual-motor 462 PS (340 kW) setup enables the car to get from zero to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds (two tenths of a second slower than the regular model) on its way to a top speed of 201 km/h.

    In the Land of Smiles, the Model Y L is priced at 1,999,000 baht (RM242,200), making it cheaper than the regular Model Y Premium AWD (2,019,000 baht, or RM244,700); it’s the other way around in Australia. Given that the five-seater is priced at RM242,450 here, could we see the six-seater below the RM240,000 mark?

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y L in Australia – 6-seater EV SUV with AWD, 681 km WLTP range, fr RM207k; Malaysia next?

    Tesla Model Y L in Australia – 6-seater EV SUV with AWD, 681 km WLTP range, fr RM207k; Malaysia next?

    Five months after making its debut in China, the Tesla Model Y L is finally being exported overseas, with its first international stop being Australia and New Zealand. Available in a single Premium AWD variant, the six-seater electric SUV is priced at AU$74,900 (RM207,400), which is AU$6,000 (RM16,600) more than the AU$68,900 (RM190,800) regular version.

    In case you didnt know, the Model Y L is a slightly larger version of the Model Y Premium, being 177 mm longer (4,969 mm) and 44 mm taller (1,668 mm) with a 149 mm longer wheelbase (3,040 mm). This frees up space for a pair of third-row seats, with the roofline also being pushed upwards towards the rear – giving the car a slightly hunchbacked look – to add a modicum of headroom.

    Step inside and you’ll notice that the second-row bench has been swapped out for captain’s chairs with power-retractable armrests, heating and ventilation, leading to a 2-2-2 seating configuration. The rearmost seats are also more substantial (with proper headrests) than the third-row pews in the standard seven-seater (2-3-2) version, currently only available in the US and Europe. Meanwhile, the physically larger body delivers a maximum cargo room of 2,539 litres, versus 2,138 litres for the standard Model Y.

    Tesla Model Y L in Australia – 6-seater EV SUV with AWD, 681 km WLTP range, fr RM207k; Malaysia next?

    On the outside, the Model Y L is differentiated through the optional Cosmic Silver paint – an almost champagne gold hue – that takes the place of the usual Quicksilver. You also get unique 19-inch Machina wheels with a Y-spoke design; you can’t spec the 20-inch Crossflow alloys available on other Model Y Premium models. On the inside, the white interior option has been swapped out for Zen Grey.

    Other new bits include more substantial power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats – now with extendable thigh support – as well as adaptive dampers (first seen on the full-fat Performance model) to replace the standard frequency selective shocks. The sound system has also been expanded from a 15-speaker to an 18-speaker setup, still with a subwoofer.

    Beyond all that, the Model Y L is pretty much the same as every other Model Y Premium, with textile interior trim, faux leather upholstery, a 16-inch infotainment touchscreen, an eight-inch second-row touchscreen, a panoramic glass roof, twin Qi wireless chargers, ambient lighting, eight exterior cameras (still no full 360-degree view) and a hands-free opening tailgate.

    Aside from the extra space and seats, the Model Y L also gains a larger 82 kWh NMC battery for a range of 681 km on the WLTP cycle, versus 629 km for the Model Y Premium AWD. The dual-motor 462 PS (340 kW) setup enables the car to get from zero to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds (two tenths of a second slower than the regular model) on its way to a top speed of 201 km/h.

    With the Model Y L now filtering out to right-hand-drive markets, it’s only a matter of time before it arrives here. One thing of note is that as the current Premium AWD model is priced at RM242,450, we can expect the L to cost well over RM250,000.

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y Juniper 7-seater now available in Europe

    Tesla Model Y Juniper 7-seater now available in Europe

    The seven-seater Tesla Model Y Juniper has landed in Europe, with the third-row option now being available for order for the Premium AWD (née Long Range AWD) model for €2,500 (RM11,500), bringing the base price up to €55,490 (RM255,000). The same option is US$2,500 (RM9,700) in the US market where it made its debut.

    While the original Tesla Model Y was available with an optional third row which added two seats, this option was not available on the Juniper at launch. A three-row Model Y was later launched in the form of the Tesla Model Y L with a longer wheelbase, but instead of being a seven-seater, it is a six-seater with a 2-2-2 seat configuration, with the middle bench replaced by two individual captain’s chairs.

    The seven-seater Model Y finally made its comeback in the US last month, albeit with the same wheelbase as the regular model and the same sloping coupé-like roofline restricting headroom. Access to the third row is via folding and sliding forward either outer seat of the middle bench.

    Above you will find a comparison of seating configurations between the five-seater Model Y, the seven-seater Model Y and the six-seater Model Y L.

    Tesla Model Y Juniper 7-seater now available in Europe

    The bigger six-seater Model Y L will be offered in right-hand drive markets

    The third row of the Model Y is not the same as the one on the Model Y L – the long wheelbase version’s third-row bench has ISOFIX child seat mounting points which are missing on the regular Model Y. The L also gains more substantial headrests that poke up above the backrests.

    It should be noted that this seven-seat version of the Model Y is expected to be offered in Europe alongside the Model Y L, the latter reported as having received type approval in the continent. More pertinent for Malaysia is the fact that the car has also been certified in Australia, meaning that it has been converted to right-hand drive and likely to be offered here as well.

    So, which one would you pick – the seven-seat Model Y Premium AWD, or the six-seat Model Y L? Let us know in the comments.

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y L – previously China-only 6-seater EV SUV coming to Australia this year; Malaysia too?

    Tesla Model Y L – previously China-only 6-seater EV SUV coming to Australia this year; Malaysia too?

    Want a Tesla Model Y but need more than the five seats that it currently offers? Well, good news – the six-seater Model Y L, previously only offered in China, is apparently headed to right-hand-drive markets, with CarExpert reporting that the car has appeared in Australian government certification documents. This hints at an impending launch for the three-row electric SUV, possibly as soon as this year.

    The news comes hot on the heels of the Model Y L receiving European type approval late last year, according to X user @eivissacopter. Unlike practically every other carmaker, Tesla tends to roll out its models worldwide as soon as they are ready, so expect the car to be made available to order in Malaysia at the same time as other markets.

    For the uninitiated, the Model Y L is a slightly larger version of the regular Model Y, being 179 mm longer (4,976 mm) and 44 mm taller (1,668 mm) with a 149 mm longer wheelbase (3,040 mm). This frees up space for a pair of third-row seats, although the still-sloping roof likely still impinges on headroom.

    The second-row bench has also been swapped out for captain’s chairs with power-retractable armrests, heating and ventilation. The physically larger body also delivers a maximum cargo room of 2,539 litres, versus 2,130 litres for the standard Model Y. It should be noted that Tesla already offers a three-row version of the Model Y Premium AWD, but this is only available in the US.

    Tesla Model Y L – previously China-only 6-seater EV SUV coming to Australia this year; Malaysia too?

    Note the right-hand-drive steering wheel shown here

    Just one variant of the Model Y L is being offered in China at present – a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version that a ministry of industry and information technology (MIIT) filing suggests produces 462 PS (340 kW) and has an 82 kWh NMC battery.

    The car is claimed to get from zero to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 201 km/h. The CLTC-rated range is quoted at 751 km, with purported European specs indicating a WLTP range of 681 km.

     
     
  • 2026 Tesla Model Y AWD revealed – base model drops Standard name; 0-100 km/h 4.8 secs, 473 km range

    2026 Tesla Model Y AWD revealed – base model drops Standard name; 0-100 km/h 4.8 secs, 473 km range

    It seems that despite the significantly lower specs, the Model Y Standard has been successful enough for Tesla to expand the base model lineup with a new all-wheel-drive version. Except now, the Silicon Valley carmaker has seen fit to drop the “Standard” moniker, leaving the car to simply be called the Model Y AWD.

    Only offered in the US for now, this variant lifts the dual-motor powertrain from the full-fat Long Range AWD (now called the Premium AWD), enabling it to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in the same 4.8 seconds. The extra performance and traction comes at the expense of range – given that this car uses the already smaller battery of the Standard RWD (now simply the Model Y RWD), this is now the Model Y with the shortest range.

    The official figure drops from 517 km on the RWD to 473 km; contrast this with the Premium AWD, which can travel up to 526 km on a single charge. We should point out, however, that this is on the US’ EPA cycle, the most realistic of them all – more so than even WLTP. Expect a WLTP range closer to 550 km, which is still fairly acceptable. The AWD accepts up to 225 kW of DC fast charging, adding 245 km of range in 15 minutes.

    Beyond that, the Model Y AWD is as per the RWD model, with much simpler LED lights and front bumper and no full-width light bars front and rear, along with smaller 18-inch Aperture wheels with aero covers. Inside, you lose ambient lighting, heated and ventilated seats, full faux leather upholstery (now partly fabric), physical seat adjustment controls (now only through the screen), an FM radio, all-around double glazing, an “open” glass roof (it’s covered by the headliner), power-folding rear seats and even power-folding door mirrors.

    The base AWD at least still receives the larger 16-inch infotainment touchscreen added to the Model Y earlier this year, but you don’t get the Premium’s eight-inch rear touchscreen or its 15-speaker sound system (just seven speakers here); the frequency selective dampers have also been switched to regular passive shocks. Nor is there Autopilot, as there is no lane centring assist. You can at least still spec the car with Tesla’s Full Self Driving function.

    The Model Y AWD is priced at US$41,990 (RM165,500), slotting neatly between the US$39,990 (RM157,600) RWD and the $44,990 (RM177,300) Premium RWD. Whether this trim level will be offered in Malaysia depends on the availability of the “standard” RWD, which has yet to be launched here despite Tesla Malaysia introducing the Model 3 Standard in January. If the base models do end up here, expect them to be much cheaper than the RM195,450 Premium RWD.

    GALLERY: 2026 Tesla Model Y RWD

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD now in Malaysia – 661km WLTP range, 0-100 in 5.6s, from RM216,450

    Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD now in Malaysia – 661km WLTP range, 0-100 in 5.6s, from RM216,450

    A new variant of the Tesla Model Y has been added to the range in Malaysia. No, it’s not the Model Y Performance, but the Tesla Model Y LR RWD, which is priced at RM216,450.

    Specs for the LR RWD follows most of the RWD model, which means it has nine speakers like the RWD instead of the 15 speakers and one subwoofer of the LR AWD model.

    The single motor that drive the rear wheels is a bit more powerful, allowing the LR RWD to hit the 100 km/h mark in 5.6 seconds versus the 5.9 seconds of the RWD, but slower than the LR AWD’s 4.8 second time.

    You cannot upgrade the LR RWD’s wheels to 20 inch Helix 2.0 wheels, which is an option available for the RWD and the LR AWD. This is presumably to allow the LR RWD to keep its 661 km WLTP range rating, which is longer than the 466 km of the RWD and the 600 km of the LR AWD. We’re guessing the larger wheels are enough of an efficiency hit that the gap with the LR AWD might shrink too much.

    The car you see here is the first unit of the LR RWD in Malaysia, and it features the updates that were announced earlier this month which are the larger, 16-inch central touchscreen and black interior headlining and pillar upholstery.

    Now that we have a third variant for the Model Y in Malaysia, what’s next for the Juniper? The Model Y Performance? A Model Y Standard to go with the Model 3 Standard that made its debut today? Or any chance for the 6-seater Model Y L or the 7-seater Model Y that’s available in the US?

    What do you think of the Tesla Model Y LR RWD. Would you choose this over the cheaper RWD or more expensive LR AWD models?

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y again best-selling SUV in China followed by Geely Xingyue L and Boyue L – BYD not in top five

    Tesla Model Y again best-selling SUV in China followed by Geely Xingyue L and Boyue L – BYD not in top five

    China bought 425,337 Tesla Model Ys in 2025, making it the third best-selling new energy vehicle (NEV) and, once again, the best-selling SUV in the country. That number represents 3.58% of the 11.878 million SUVs sold there last year (+5% year-on-year), Car News China reports, citing the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

    Geely took second and third with the Xingyue L (244,068) and Boyue L (232,926) respectively; you can see how far ahead the Tesla is. At fourth sits the first Japanese car – the Toyota RAV4 (204,125) – and at fifth, the first European – the Volkswagen Tiguan L (202,904).

    Tesla Model Y again best-selling SUV in China followed by Geely Xingyue L and Boyue L – BYD not in top five

    Compiled by Car News China, click to enlarge

    Only at sixth do we find the first BYD, the Song Plus (200,276), followed by another, the Yuan Up (Atto 2 to us, 189,277). BYD has six models in the top 35 SUV list – the other four are the Song Pro at ninth (180,661), the Song L DM-i at 20th (137,120), the Sealion 06 at 21st (136,166) and the Yuan Plus at 22nd (135,446).

    Geely has five models in the top 35 SUV list – the other three being the Coolray at 24th (Proton X50 to us, 133,888), the Galaxy E5 at 28th (Proton eMas 7 to us, 120,978) and the Galaxy Starship 7 at 30th (Proton eMas 7 PHEV to us, 119,214). Meanwhile, Toyota has four – the other three are the Corolla Cross at eighth (186,575), the Frontlander at 12th (174,434) and the Wildlander at 33rd (112,730). The latter two are sold by GAC-Toyota; they’re twins of the Corolla Cross and RAV4 respectively.

     
     
  • 2026 Tesla Model Y updated in Malaysia – two variants, now with 16-inch screen, black headlining; fr RM195k

    2026 Tesla Model Y updated in Malaysia – two variants, now with 16-inch screen, black headlining; fr RM195k

    Following the update of the Chinese-market Tesla Model Y earlier this month, Malaysia now, too gets the updated model that brings updated equipment, first seen on the long-wheelbase, six-seater Model Y L for China.

    The equipment updates apply to new orders of the 2026 Model Y in Malaysia, and are focused upon the EV’s cabin, starting with a larger, 16-inch central touchscreen that succeeds the outgoing 15.4-inch unit.

    Like the Chinese-market model, the Malaysian-market model gets interior headlining and pillar upholstery which are now offered in black, for both choices of black, or black and white interior colour schemes. The upsized central touchscreen in front is complemented by an eight-inch unit for the second row.

    On the exterior, the LR AWD model now gets its “Dual Motor” rear badge finished in black instead of the previous silver. The RWD model does not have any exterior badging, not even a Tesla badge at the front.

    Two variants of the 2026 Model Y are listed on the Tesla website for Malaysia; the Standard Range Rear-Wheel Drive from RM195,450, and the Long Range All-Wheel Drive from RM242,450. The Standard Range RWD is rated for a claimed 466 km of range on the WLTP standard, while the Long Range AWD offers a claimed 600 km (WLTP).

    Charging for the 2026 Model Y can be done at up to 175 kW DC for the Standard Range RWD, adding up to 238 km of range in 15 minutes, or up to 250 kW DC for the Long Range AWD, adding up to 283 km of range in 15 minutes. For acceleration, the Standard Range RWD does 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range AWD does the same in 4.8 seconds.

    Rolling stock brings 19-inch “Crossflow” wheels as standard, while the 20-inch “Helix 2.0” set is a RM10,000 option. Inside, the black interior upholstery is standard, while the two-tone black and white scheme is a RM5,000 option; the accessory glass roof sunshade is priced at RM450.

    2026 Tesla Model Y updated in Malaysia – two variants, now with 16-inch screen, black headlining; fr RM195k

    Assistance systems in the 2026 Model Y for Malaysia begin with Basic Autopilot as an included package, while two optional tiers are available; Enhanced Autopilot for RM16,000, and Full-Self Driving for RM32,000 (both options subject to regulatory approval).

    For exterior paint colours, the 2026 Model Y in Malaysia gets Stealth Grey as a no-cost selection, while Pearl While Multi-Coat and Diamond Black are each an option at RM5,000; Glacier Blue is priced at RM7,500. Meanwhile, Quicksilver and Ultra Red are each an RM11,000 cost option.

    In Malaysia, the 2026 Tesla Model Y is covered by a four-year, 80,000 km vehicle warranty, and an eight-year, 160,000 km battery warranty.

     
     
  • 2026 Tesla Model Y in China updated to get larger 16-inch screen, black headlining from 6-seater Model Y L

    2026 Tesla Model Y in China updated to get larger 16-inch screen, black headlining from 6-seater Model Y L

    Following the debut of the Tesla Model Y L in China, the American brand has given the five-seater version of the 2025 Model Y an update for the Chinese market, bringing equipment updates that first featured on the long-wheelbase, six-seater EV.

    For the five-seater Model Y in China, this means the slight upsizing of its central 15.4-inch screen to the 16-inch unit that features on the three-row Model Y L, while its headlining and pillar interior upholstery are now offered in black, applicable to both choices of black, or black and white interior colour schemes.

    The 16-inch central touchscreen in the front of the 2026 Model Y five-seater cabin is complemented by an eight-inch unit for the second row occupants. On the six-seater Model Y L, audio is comprised of 18 speakers and a subwoofer located within the centre console, and the three-row version of the Model Y also gets air-cooled, simultaneous wireless device charging at up to 50 W and 30 W.

    The five-seater, 2026 Model Y in China is offered in three variants; the base Rear-Wheel Drive with 593 km of range on the Chinese domestic CLTC test cycle and capable of 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h, the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (821 km CLTC) capable of 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, and the Long Range All-Wheel Drive (750 km CLTC) that does 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

    As with the six-seater Model Y L, the five-seater 2026 Model Y in China can be optioned with a choice of paint finishes ranging from 8,000 yuan (RM4,633) to 12,000 yuan (RM6,950), the standard 19-inch alloy wheels can be upgraded to 20-inch items at 8,000 yuan (RM4,633), and the premium two-tone interior also for 8,000 yuan (RM4,633); there are also two tiers of assisted driving packages at 32,000 yuan (RM18,534) and 64,000 yuan (RM37,068).

    In China, the 2026 Model Y is priced from 263,500 yuan (RM152,618) for the base Rear-Wheel Drive variant, through 288,500 yuan (RM167,098) for the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive variant, up to 313,500 yuan (RM167,098) for the Long Range All-Wheel Drive variant; the aforementioned Model Y L is the range-topper at 339,000 yuan (RM196,347).

    GALLERY: Tesla Model Y L six-seater

     
     
  • 2026 Tesla Model Y, Model 3 Standard – decontented base models with up to 517 km range, no Autopilot

    2026 Tesla Model Y, Model 3 Standard – decontented base models with up to 517 km range, no Autopilot

    Tesla dropped a bombshell by introducing not one, but two Standard models, with the Model 3 also getting the base treatment alongside the already-anticipated Model Y. Exclusive to the US for the moment, both cars – which in the Model 3’s case replaces the regular rear-wheel-drive version – have seen a significant reduction in features to hit a lower price point.

    First, some good news – the Model 3 Standard is actually an upgrade over the outgoing RWD in terms of range, which has gone up from 438 km to 517 km on the US’ stringent EPA cycle. This is shared with the Model Y Standard, despite the latter being bigger and heavier.

    As before, the Model 3 Standard gets from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.8 seconds, with the Model Y taking a second longer at 6.8 seconds (1.4 seconds slower than the RWD model); both will hit a top speed of 201 km/h. They also only accept up to 225 kW of DC Supercharging, which is down from the 250 kW offered on other models, so a 15-minute charge will net you 274 km of range (272 km for the Model Y).


    Tesla Model 3 Standard (left) versus Premium RWD/Long Range RWD

    Now on to the not-so-good news – what’s been cut. Starting with the Model 3 Standard, not much has been changed over the regular variants, which have now been renamed Premium. On the outside, the 18-inch wheels gain a new Prismata fully-covered design (these are the rollers that were teased previously), although buyers can opt for larger 19-inch Nova alloys, just like on any other non-Performance Model 3. The bumpers, LED headlights (replete with adaptive high beam) and C-shaped taillights remain untouched.

    Inside, you no longer get the ambient light strips that were added to the Project Highland facelift, while the powered front seats – which gain a new design – come with part-fabric upholstery and ditch their ventilation function (no heated rear seats, either).

    The steering wheel adjustment is also now manually operated, which will at least be welcomed by those irked by the touchscreen-based adjustment on other models. What they won’t welcome is the front seats losing their own discrete physical controls, so the only way to adjust them is through that screen. Power-folding door mirrors and all-around double glazing have also been dropped.


    Tesla Model 3 Standard (left) versus Premium RWD/Long Range RWD

    Elsewhere, the centre console now has lidless cupholders and no rear touchscreen, the space there being taken up by manually-adjustable air vents. There is, of course, still a 15.4-inch touchscreen at the front, twin Qi wireless chargers, a panoramic glass roof and seven speakers, but the FM radio has been removed.

    If you thought the Model 3 Standard was austere, the Model Y Standard takes things to a whole new level. As undisguised units showed, the front light bar and split headlights have been replaced by slim one-piece lamps (no adaptive high beam here), and the air intake design has also been simplified into a single wide “mouth”. The 18-inch wheels (with unique Aperture covers) remain, but while Tesla offers an upgrade here too, it’s only to the 19-inch Crossflow rollers fitted as standard on the Premium variants.

    Moving to the rear, the Project Juniper facelift’s novel indirect taillight illumination is no more, with just a black bar joining the simple inverted L-shaped lamps. The latter integrate the indicator and reverse light functions, so the rear diffuser now only houses the reflectors.


    Tesla Model 3 Standard (left) versus Premium RWD

    The Model Y Standard’s interior has gone through the same decontenting as the Model 3 Standard, just even more. The centre console, previously housing a lidded storage cubby, has been swapped for a gaping hole underneath the wireless chargers. The cupholders and front armrest remain, situated atop a floating “island”. Even the carpets are now optional.

    Somewhat bizarrely, there’s still a glass roof, but Tesla has chosen to cover it with full headlining, eliminating its entire reason for being. The Standard also lacks the HEPA filter and Bioweapon mode on other Model Ys (these are not fitted to any Model 3) and has manual- rather than power-folding rear seats. Not only do the changes make the Standard look very obviously like a bargain-basement model, but all these bespoke panels and componentry will have cost Tesla a pretty penny – which kinda defeats the point, doesn’t it?

    Under the skin, both Standard models ride on regular passive dampers, rather than the (still-passive) frequency-selective shocks found elsewhere. Another area where Tesla has taken a buzzsaw to is the driver assists – with no more lane centring assist, these two variants no longer offer Autopilot functionality.


    Tesla Model 3 Standard (left) versus Premium RWD

    However, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring are still fitted as standard, as are the eight cameras that include a front camera. This being Tesla, you can still opt for the (supervised) Full Self Driving pack, costing US$8,000 (RM33,700) in the US.

    The insistence of building all-new parts means that the Model Y Standard is not all that much cheaper than the Premium versions, costing just US$5,000 (RM21,000) less at US$39,990 (RM168,600) – not a lot considering the amount of features you lose in the process.

    The US$36,990 (RM155,900) Model 3 Standard, meanwhile, is priced US$5,500 (RM23,200) lower than the Premium RWD (previously called the Long Range RWD), but this figure doesn’t take into account the discontinuation of the old US$38,990 (RM164,400) RWD base model. In other words, the base price of the Model 3 has only dropped by US$2,000 (RM8,400).

    All this price-slashing goes only half the way to cover the loss of the US$7,500 (RM31,600) federal tax credit for EVs, which the Trump administration ended last week. Over to you now – would you like to see a cheaper Model 3 and Model Y in Malaysia for less than the current starting prices of RM169,000 and RM195,450 respectively? Let us know in the comments.

    GALLERY: 2026 Tesla Model Y Standard


    GALLERY: 2026 Tesla Model 3 Standard

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y Standard seen ahead of debut – more affordable variant with wheel covers, no front light bar

    Tesla Model Y Standard seen ahead of debut – more affordable variant with wheel covers, no front light bar

    The Tesla Model Y Standard appears to have been leaked ahead of its official debut, according to a post on X by the Tesla Newswire fan account.

    This has been said to start from US$39,990 (RM168,457) in the United States, and the Standard is positioned as a more affordable option in the Model Y line-up. The leaked image shows a front fascia without the front light bar joining both headlamps, as on the latest “Juniper” iteration of the Model Y.

    According to the Tesla Newswire fan account, the revisions to appear on the more affordable variant of the Model Y include a “closed glass roof”, smaller, 18-inch wheels, a more basic interior specification including textile upholstery and a manually adjustable steering wheel.

    Further claimed specifications on the Model Y Standard include a 15.4-inch touchscreen, omission of the second-row touchscreen, manually adjustable second-row air vents, a particulate filter in place of a HEPA filter, and a slightly smaller luggage compartment.

    Tesla Model Y Juniper, Malaysian market

    The exterior changes as claimed for the Model Y Standard appear to be confirmed by an on-road sighting of a Model Y fitting that description, posted to X by Ryan Mable.

    In September, the budget variant of the Model Y was tipped to bear the codename E41, and X user ‘Green’ indicated that this variant would feature side mirrors without power folding and puddle lamps, no tyre pressure monitoring system and a simplified fibreglass headliner.

    ‘Green’ also claimed that the upcoming budget Model Y variant would be offered with two audio specifications; an “essential” and an “essential with commodity”, while the reversing camera would do without a heating element that is meant to prevent fogging. An “Airwave” system for the climate control has also been removed in this variant, according to ‘Green’.

    Further details uncovered, according to ‘Green’, include rear- and all-wheel-drive powertrains for the E41, or Model Y Standard, while suspension has been said to take a downgrade in this budget form.

    More recently, Tesla released teaser footage on X of what appears to be a spinning wheel or device, followed by “10/7” alluding to the October 7 date when more will be revealed.

    The spinning object with the Tesla logo on its centre would appear to be a wheel, however this seems to be without any wheel lugs, which leads to speculation that the object could be something other than a wheel, or more likely, a wheel cover.

    This was followed by another short video on X, this time of a set of headlamps appearing to be those of the Model Y, but without the central strip joining the headlamp units on each side, indicative of the new Model Y variant.

     
     
  • Tesla Model Y Juniper to get new, cheaper E41 variant – downgraded suspension, specific fascia, less kit

    Tesla Model Y Juniper to get new, cheaper E41 variant – downgraded suspension, specific fascia, less kit

    In late July this year, Tesla CEO Elon Musk indicated that the company’s new budget-focused is “just a Model Y,” which will reportedly have less features in order to keep the price down, similar to what was done with the Model 3 Highland. Some of these changes were highlighted by netizens in China who posted spyshots of the forthcoming model on social media.

    Now, more details of the budget Model Y have recently surfaced thanks to a hacker going by the name ‘Green’, who sifted through Tesla firmware updates and posted the findings on X (@greentheonly). As a start, the cheaper variant is known internally by the codename E41 and is expected to come with downgraded suspension, although it isn’t stated what’s changed.

    Other items mentioned include a simpler 18-inch wheel design, side mirrors that lack power folding and puddle lamps, no glass roof and the tyre pressure monitoring system has been removed. Additionally, the reverse camera loses its heating element that is meant to prevent fogging on the lens.

    Inside, the powered seats have less adjustment options, the cabin lighting is limited to the footwell, there is simpler fiberglass headliner and the second-row has been removed. Green also mentions there will only be two audio options – an “essential” and “essential with commodity” – and the Airwave system (related to the climate system) has been removed.

    The budget Model Y is said to wear an E41-specific fascia (possibly without fancy signature lighting) and will be offered with rear- or all-wheel drive electric powertrains, the latter said to have “special motor configurations.” It’s also mentioned in Green’s posts that the more expensive Performance variant will get a fascia update when the E41 is introduced.

    Referring to previous spyshots of the budget offering in China, the cheaper Model Y is said to not come with split headlamps, a glass roof and reflective body panel for the full-width taillights that provides an “afterburner effect.” As for the interior, there is no cupholder cover, no storage in front of the cupholders, no rear touchscreen and no ventilation function for the seats.

     
     
 
 
 

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