Zeekr X review

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【Summary】The Zeekr X is a compact electric luxury car from the Chinese brand Zeekr, owned by Geely. It has a classy interior and unique design features. The X model offers good passenger space and a decent-sized boot. It comes in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive options, with the latter boasting impressive power and acceleration. The car has a competitive range and fast charging capabilities. The styling is bold and the interior is minimalist and well-designed.

FutureCar Staff Oct 04, 2023 11:16 PM PT

Verdict: Zeekr is set to challenge Europe's luxury car manufacturers with its new model, the Zeekr X. While the small electric SUV has its flaws, it offers a classy interior and unique design and technology features that set it apart from its competitors. The flagship AWD powertrain may be overkill for most drivers, but the small price difference makes it tempting. Zeekr is a Chinese brand owned by Geely, which also owns Lotus, Volvo, Polestar, and Smart. The Zeekr X is positioned as a compact electric luxury car and shares its platform with the Smart #1 and #3, as well as the Volvo EX30.

Zeekr, founded in 2021, already has three models on sale, including the Zeekr X. The Zeekr X is slightly longer than the Smart #1, providing ample passenger space for four adults and a 362-litre boot. It falls between smaller SUV models like the Peugeot E-2008 and Smart and larger SUVs like the Mercedes EQA and Smart #3. The Zeekr X is available in rear-wheel-drive or dual-motor four-wheel-drive options, with the latter offering impressive power and acceleration.

The Zeekr X features a 69kWh battery, providing a range of 277 miles for the single-motor version and 264 miles for the dual-motor model. While these ranges are competitive, using the car's performance capabilities will significantly reduce the range. The Zeekr X offers a 22kW onboard AC charger and a 150kW DC rapid-charging capacity, allowing for quick charging times. The car also includes a unique circular digital display on the external B-pillar panel to easily check the charging status.

The Zeekr X boasts bold styling, with distinctive design elements and headlights. The interior follows the minimalist trend seen in modern EVs, with controls centralized in a 14.6-inch touchscreen. Overall, the interior is attractive and well-built, although some lower-quality plastics can be found. Storage space is limited, with wide door pockets and a small frunk.

The Zeekr X includes some unique features, such as a wireless phone-charging slot in the center armrest and a built-in sunglasses holder on the door frame. The infotainment system offers a pet mode, allowing owners to leave their pets in the car with climate control set to keep them comfortable. The car also has external speakers that can play animal noises, verbal messages, or engine sounds to pedestrians.

The touchscreen interface can be complex and less responsive than desired, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available. The standard head-up display provides clear information, and the car's driving experience is more akin to a compact MPV than an SUV, with a spacious interior and an upright driving position. The powerful dual-motor variant can easily break traction if driven aggressively.