Tesla Model Y L vs. Li Auto i8: Which Six-Seat All-Electric SUV Would You Choose?

The Tesla Model Y L and Li Auto i8 face off head-to-head. Two approaches, two answers—but which will win over family buyers?

The second half of this year has seen fierce competition in the three-row all-electric SUV market. Even Tesla has rolled out a six-seat version of the Model Y. Its name is as straightforward as it gets—Model Y L—making it instantly clear that this is the extended version.

With a starting price of RMB 339,000, it lines up almost exactly with the Li Auto i8, inviting direct comparisons.

On one side is Tesla, the established powerhouse in the EV space, now back in the game with an “L” badge and a CLTC range of 751 km. On the other is Li Auto, a brand that has built its reputation on family-focused range-extended vehicles, now further expanding its footprint in the all-electric market with the i8.

The question is: will the Tesla Model Y L become the disruptive “catfish” in the three-row EV SUV market?

In terms of dimensions, the two models diverge. The Model Y L stretches to 4,976 mm in length with a 3,040 mm wheelbase—179 mm longer overall and 150 mm longer between the axles compared to the standard Model Y—finally creating space for a third row. That said, based on test impressions, the third row is still better suited to children or short-term use. To improve comfort, Tesla added air vents on both the B- and C-pillars to ensure airflow reaches every seat.

Li Auto, however, goes further. At 5,085 mm long, 1,960 mm wide, and with a 3,050 mm wheelbase, the i8 offers larger dimensions across the board. Paired with more generously padded seating, the third row is noticeably more comfortable and can handle long journeys.

On range, Tesla once again demonstrates its efficiency advantage. With an 82 kWh battery pack, the Model Y L achieves an impressive CLTC-rated 751 km, among the very best in its class.

The i8 isn’t far behind. Equipped with a standard 97.8 kWh battery, it delivers 720 km on the CLTC cycle. More importantly, the i8 is built on an 800V architecture with 5C fast charging capability, enabling up to 500 km of range replenished in just 10 minutes—a charging solution more in tune with the habits of Chinese users than Tesla’s reliance on slower high-flow charging stations.

Looking at performance, Tesla’s Model Y L produces a combined 340 kW from its dual motors, while the Li Auto i8 delivers 400 kW. Yet both accelerate from 0–100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, largely because the i8 carries an additional 522 kg in curb weight, negating its power advantage.

When it comes to intelligence and ADAS, China’s new-energy startups continue to pack in the hardware. The Li Auto i8 comes standard with lidar, 30 sensors in total, and an NVIDIA Thor-U chip offering 700 TOPS of compute. Paired with Li Auto’s self-developed VLA assisted driving system, it ranks among the top tier in the domestic market—and the feature is included free during the launch period.

Inside, the i8 is packed with comfort-oriented amenities—everything from a refrigerator to entertainment screens and lounge-style seating—turning the cabin into more of a mobile living room.

The Model Y L maintains Tesla’s minimalist approach, anchored by its in-house FSD system. However, given the slow rollout of FSD in China, much of its potential remains untapped, leaving it at a disadvantage in this market.

Ultimately, within the same price range, the two models represent very different philosophies. Tesla leans on efficiency, range, and brand strength; Li Auto prioritizes space, comfort, and intelligence.

So which will win over family buyers? From a product perspective, the Li Auto i8 appears more closely aligned with domestic consumer needs. But behind the Model Y L stands Tesla’s global brand influence and mature EV ecosystem. The real verdict will only come when the market and sales figures have their say.