Seven-seat option added as Tesla extends appeal of popular Model Y

It's good to drive and the firm's supercharging network is the best around, providing reliable charging at reasonable prices. The Model Y was already the most popular electric SUV in this country - and Tesla has just found to way to further boost its appeal. Now, UK buyers can opt for an extra layer of family-friendly flexibility thanks to the introduction of a seven-seater configuration.

The Model Y glistening in the winter sunshine Only the Long Range all-wheel drive variant is available with seven seats, costing GBP2,500 more than its five-seater stablemate. The Model Y has been offered with seven seats in other markets including North America since launch, but only available as a five-seater in the UK until now. The addition of a third row of forward-facing seats - which are best suited to children - provides an extra option for families.

The seats can fold flat to allow for extra storage capacity when needed, increasing the boot from 363 litres to 753 litres of space. Access to the third row is easy enough thanks to buttons located on the backrest of the middle-row seats, allowing them to slide and fold forwards. The boot still offers decent storage space even with the third row of seats in place Once seated, third row passengers have comfortable headroom thanks to their positioning under the rear glass and can charge their mobile devices with two USB-C outlets.

The seven-seater option looks set to further enhance the appeal of the Model Y, which continues to enjoy strong sales success. Official stats show that it was the UK's third best selling car in November, with 3,350 units shifted. The Model Y is the sister car to the Model 3, and uses the same running gear and electronics but offers a raised ride height in an SUV body style, boosting interior space.

The stylish silhouette of the Model Y can be seen in this side profile During my week in its company, I found it really easy to use and enjoyable to drive. Acceleration is brisk, with the AWD version capable of sprinting from a standing start to 60mph in 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 135mph. Power delivery is consistent, linear and predictable, which makes for a smooth driving experience.

The steering is trustworthy without being especially engaging, not providing a lot of feel as you progress along a twisty B-road. On the motorway, the car feels smooth and refined, but the ride is a little unsettled on undulating country roads. The minimalist cabin has an uncluttered and relaxed feel The excellent way in which the braking and motor regeneration are calibrated means you feel very comfortable with the one-pedal driving scenario.

After a while, it begins to feel perfectly natural and you rarely find yourself needing to touch the brake pedal. The range is reassuringly good at 331 miles, while Tesla's charging network - combined with the excellent App - means range anxiety is unlikely to be a problem. Regardless of which version you choose, the Model Y comes with bags of luxuries, including climate control, adaptive cruise control, and faux-leather seats, which are heated in the front and back.

The Model Y viewed from the rear You also get an electric tailgate and keyless entry via an app on your smartphone, further enhancing ease-of-use. The cabin is typically-uncluttered, with its minimalist design aiding a relaxing experience. At GBP55, 990, the Model Y is competitively-priced for a seven-seat electric SUV.

Tesla Model Y seven-seat

RANGE: 331 miles0-62mph: 4.8 seconds

TOP SPEED: 135mphPOWERTRAIN: ElectricTRANSMISSION: Auto, all-wheel drivePRICE: GBP55,990