Six-seater Tesla on fast boat here.

STRAIGHT talking has fuelled an announcement that confirms New Zealand is one of the first export markets to take the stretched three-row version of the Tesla Model Y.

A brief, almost perfunctory comment today out of the brand’s regional headquarters in Australia, where the car is also headed, says it will arrive soon, in a single specification costing $83,900.

The sticker presents as a $6000 premium over the shorter, less spacious Mondel Y Long Range sibling, also in premium specification. The Model Y Performance maintains as the most expensive choice in this family, at $100,900.

Available to order now, the new entrant stands out by having a wheelbase stretch and unique rear end to provide its two-two-two seating layout and has few direct rivals and there’s expectation of it delivering sales growth.

It is the first Tesla here with vehicle to load capability; this requires an accessory adapter.

It also arrives with a five star safety rating from our national auditor, ANCAP.

Equipment-wise, it appears to be all but identical to the two-row Model Y Premium AWD; the extra spend all goes toward purchasing a 150mm wheelbase stretch, a larger Nickel Manganese Cobalt battery (an 88.2kWh unit), and that extra row of seats.

Those who’ve seen and sat in it relate that, though the Model Y’s egg-like profile remains, the rear is inflated around the tailgate, rear doors, and roof to provide comfortable headroom for that third row.

Orders are being taken now with deliveries set to begin in quarter two - meaning from next month.