Tesla Model Y Five-Seat Vs. Seven-Seat Interior: What Extra $3,000 Buys

Tesla recently added a new option for its Model Y cross-over utility vehicle. Third-row seating adds two more seats in the cargo area, albeit seats with limited legroom that are more suitable for children than adults. However, extra seats are not the only upgrade included with this option. The seven-seat option is not available for the Performance version of the Model Y, perhaps due to the larger motor.

Following on from the great success of the Model 3, Tesla created a larger version, the Model Y. The newest car from the all-electric vehicle manufacturer uses many of the same parts as the Model 3, about 75 percent according to Tesla. The interior and power train are quite similar. Since the Model Y is larger and heavier, it enjoys a bit less range, from 92 to 96 percent that of the equivalent Model 3. The performance takes a small hit as well, giving a lower top speed and slightly slower acceleration from a stop. However, the larger cargo area, a half-inch more ground clearance, and the option for extra seats make this the right choice for many.

The third-row seating adds room for seven passengers in a Model Y. The option appeared before any photographs were available to show what to expect, but Tesla recently tweeted an image revealing the third-row seats are shorter, have no headrest, and have less headroom than the seats in the first two rows. It is somewhat difficult to judge how much legroom will be available based on the single image from the three-quarters profile, but it does appear to be limited. This isn’t really surprising given the space in the cargo area that was available to work with. Seat numbers six and seven would be fine for children, pets, or small adults that are physically smaller. The added cost for third-row seating is $3,000, but there are more features included with this upgrade.

Features With Tesla Seven-Seat Model Y

While the included five-seat interior layout of the Model Y includes two front seats and three folding rear seats, the seven-seat option adds a third row with two more folding seats. This means the full cargo length and width are the same with either option, although the standard configuration will have a deeper cargo space. With the optional third row, additional USB-C charging is available. Extra charging ports are a nice convenience and eliminate the hassle of long USB cables trailing around the interior, but they don’t add much real value.

More important is the upgrade to sliding second-row seats, with adjustable seat-backs. The standard two-row option has adjustable backs for the rear seats, but they don’t allow sliding. Perhaps, this will offer more legroom in the third row. Until more details are released or hands-on reviews are available, this is just speculation. With the third-row seating adding $3,000 to the cost, the total starting price becomes $44,990. The Model Y compares well price-wise to mid to high-end SUVs from traditional car manufacturers but adds the allure of the Tesla brand with its ever-improving cars that are updated over-the-air while also saving money and not contributing to climate change with every drive due to the electric motor.

Source: Tesla/Twitter, Tesla

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Alan Truly
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Alan is a Tech Writer living in Nova Scotia, Canada. A tech-enthusiast since his youth, Alan stays current on what is new and what is next. With over 30 years experience in computer, video and photo equipment, you can expect useful tips and insights in his writing. Alan has a degree in programming, many years focused on design, editing, and animation. A period of managing logistics and e-commerce operations for a mobile accessories company rounds out a diverse background. Alan is a true jack of all digital trades in this ever-changing computer-enriched world. To stay flexible in mind and in body, he practices yoga, light cardio, and eats a whole food diet, based on minimally processed plants.

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