Tesla Model Y Juniper: The New 3-Row SUV You’ve Been Waiting For—But Only in China

The Tesla Model Y’s popularity can be credited to its spacious design, which makes it an excellent fit for families, and its impressive cost-effectiveness compared to other imported electric vehicles. A refreshed version that will launch next year is expected to capture even more attention. One of the most anticipated updates is the addition of a third-row seat, though recent reports have raised concerns about its practicality.

The addition of a third row raises questions about the current 7-passenger version limitations

Tesla is about to unveil the new Model Y, reportedly named Juniper (project name). Production will soon be at its China factory. Like the previous Model 3, this version is expected to offer a more comfortable ride, a minimalist interior, and potentially larger batteries for improved performance.

A notable change is the introduction of a third-row seat option. The seven-seater Model Y has already been available in North America and Europe since 2021. However, this model has a significant flaw: the third-row seating does not provide sufficient space.

The current third-row space is severely cramped, but the new model is expected to offer significant improvements

Currently, the third row in the seven-seater Model Y is severely cramped. The vehicle’s body size remains the same as the five-seater version without any major design adjustments to improve space. The trunk area is split to accommodate the extra seats, but tests have shown insufficient headroom for taller passengers. Two men at 180 cm (5’9″) and two women at 165 cm (5’4″) found the space inadequate for comfort.

The third-row seats in the existing seven-seater Model Y are better suited for young children than adults. However, the upcoming Model Y is expected to resolve these issues, as it will feature an extended wheelbase to accommodate the third row better. This change will likely improve both headroom and legroom in the back row, making the Model Y a more practical choice for families.

Early reports suggest that the “Juniper” three-row variant may initially launch exclusively in China.