Zeekr X Electric SUV: Powerful Premium EV Review

1. Introduction

There is a new player redefining what a premium compact electric SUV can look like — and it comes from China. The Zeekr X electric SUV is turning heads across Europe, Australia, and Asia, and for very good reason. It is bold, it is loaded with technology, and it refuses to compromise on luxury just because it sits in the compact segment. If you thought premium electric vehicles were the exclusive domain of Tesla, Volvo, or BMW, the Zeekr X is here to challenge that assumption with style, substance, and a genuinely impressive set of credentials.

Zeekr is not a brand that most Western drivers knew a few years ago. But that is changing fast. Backed by the giant Geely Auto Group — the same conglomerate that owns Volvo and has a significant stake in Polestar — Zeekr was founded in 2021 as a dedicated premium electric vehicle brand. The Zeekr X, launched in April 2023, is one of the brand’s most accessible and design-forward models, built on the same Geely SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform shared with the Volvo EX30.

Whether you are a tech-savvy urban professional looking for your first EV, or a seasoned electric driver ready to try something fresh and unexpected, the Zeekr X offers a compelling package. In this review, we walk through everything you need to know — specs, price, range, interior, performance, charging, and how it stacks up against the Tesla Model Y.

2. Zeekr X Electric SUV Overview

A Premium Compact Built on a Serious Foundation

The Zeekr X is a battery electric compact crossover SUV developed and produced by Zeekr, a premium NEV brand of Geely. It is the third production vehicle produced by the brand and was launched in April 2023. The model is based on the Geely-developed Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) electric vehicle platform, shared with the Smart #1 and the Volvo EX30.

What makes the SEA platform so significant is that it was purpose-built for electric vehicles from the ground up. There are no compromises inherited from an internal combustion platform. The result is a vehicle with a flat floor, optimised weight distribution, and space efficiency that older EV conversion platforms simply cannot match.

Zeekr X Key Specs at a Glance

The Zeekr X measures 4,450 mm in length, 1,836 mm in width, and 1,572 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. This positions it firmly in the compact SUV class — bigger than a city car but nimble enough for urban driving. It is notably larger than both the Volvo EX30 and the Smart #1, its closest platform siblings.

The Zeekr X is available in two key drivetrain configurations: a rear-wheel drive (RWD) single-motor version and a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) variant. Both share the same fundamental architecture and battery technology, with differences appearing in power output, acceleration, and charging capability. Trunk volume ranges from 362 litres with all seats in default position to 1,182 litres with the rear seats folded flat — a practical range for everyday family use.

3. Zeekr X Price and Market Positioning

How Much Does the Zeekr X Cost?

The Zeekr X sits in a smart pricing position — premium enough to feel special, but accessible enough to genuinely compete with established names. Pricing varies by market, which reflects Zeekr’s global rollout strategy.

In China, the 2025 Zeekr X is priced between approximately $22,350 and $29,850 USD, offering multiple range variants under the CLTC standard. For European and Australian buyers, the numbers are higher due to import costs, local taxes, and additional market-specific equipment.

In the Australian market, the refreshed Zeekr X starts from $48,900 driveaway for the rear-wheel drive variant, with the all-wheel drive version priced from $57,900. Early purchase packages include a 12-month unlimited charging subscription and a complimentary 7 kW home charger. The Zeekr X is also eligible for relevant government EV incentives including fringe benefits tax exemptions for company fleet and novated lease buyers.

Who Is It Competing Against?

The Zeekr X occupies a genuinely interesting slot in the market. It is more premium than a BYD Atto 3 or MG ZS EV, yet more affordable than a Volvo EX40 or BMW iX1. Its direct rivals include the Smart #1, Volvo EX30, and Xpeng G6. At a starting price of under $50,000 driveaway in Australia, it directly challenges the Tesla Model Y RWD and a growing field of Chinese competitors entering Western markets.

4. Zeekr X Interior and Design

Bold Outside, Luxurious Inside

The Zeekr X makes an immediate visual impression. Its design philosophy is avant-garde and forward-thinking, drawing on influences from both its Swedish design centres and its Chinese engineering roots. The front fascia is clean and confident, with embedded LED running lights and a closed-off grille typical of purpose-built EVs.

Seven exterior body colours are available: orange (newly added), beige, green, grey, purple, silver, and white. The car rides on 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, and an optional set of electric doors without traditional handles gives the Zeekr X a distinctly futuristic feel that is rare at this price point.

Inside the Cabin

Step inside and the Zeekr X immediately communicates quality. The interior features a compact instrument panel and an AR-HUD (augmented reality head-up display) mounted in front of the steering wheel. The centrepiece is a 14.6-inch floating touchscreen that is unique in the segment — it can physically slide towards the passenger side, allowing front-seat passengers to interact with content without reaching awkwardly across the cabin.

Standard equipment on the base RWD model includes LED headlights, wireless smartphone connectivity, a digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and wireless phone charging. Sentry mode, pet mode, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability are also included as standard across all variants.

Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a 13-speaker Yamaha premium audio system, and updated cabin finishes are included across the updated range. The AWD variant adds massage seats and a built-in refrigerator — a feature that reflects the comfort-focused philosophy Zeekr is becoming known for globally.

The overall feel is one of restrained luxury — not flashy, but consistently high quality. Materials are soft to the touch, panel gaps are tight, and the build quality exceeds what many buyers expect from a Chinese EV at this price point.

5. Zeekr X Performance and Driving Experience

Power That Surprises

The Zeekr X is not marketed as a sports car, but its performance credentials are genuinely impressive — particularly in AWD trim. The dual-motor all-wheel drive variant produces a combined system output of 315 kW (422 hp) and 543 Nm of peak torque. The 0–100 km/h acceleration time is 3.7 seconds — a figure that puts it in genuine sports car territory and ahead of many performance-focused internal combustion vehicles costing significantly more.

The four-seater single-motor RWD version produces 200 kW (268 hp) and 343 Nm of torque, covering 0–100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. Following the 2025 update, the RWD variant now produces 250 kW, and the AWD steps up to 365 kW combined — making both variants meaningfully quicker than the model they replaced.

How It Feels on the Road

Owner feedback consistently highlights linear and stable acceleration, responsive pedal feel, and a dynamic character that makes the Zeekr X genuinely engaging in city traffic and on open roads alike. Real-world reports confirm that even in adverse conditions with a low state of charge, the dual-motor version maintains its impressive acceleration response.

The SEA platform contributes to a low centre of gravity thanks to the underfloor battery placement. This helps the Zeekr X corner with notable composure for a vehicle of its size and type. Multiple driving modes allow drivers to adjust the experience from comfortable urban cruising to a more spirited and responsive feel on open roads.

6. Zeekr X Battery and Range

What Powers the Zeekr X?

The Zeekr X is powered by a 66 kWh NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) lithium-ion battery pack produced by CATL Geely Sichuan. This chemistry offers an excellent balance between energy density, weight, and performance in cold temperatures — an important consideration for buyers in Europe and other markets with significant seasonal variation.

For 2025, Zeekr also introduced a 49 kWh LFP (lithium iron phosphate) short-blade battery variant, priced approximately 25% lower than the previous entry-level model in China. This expanded battery lineup gives the Zeekr X a broader price ladder, making it accessible to buyers who do not require maximum range.

Range Figures by Variant

The 2025 Zeekr X is offered in multiple range configurations under the CLTC standard: 420 km, 500 km, 512 km, and 560 km depending on the variant chosen. It is important to note that CLTC figures tend to be optimistic compared to real-world driving. In European WLTP conditions, real-world range would typically be 10–15% lower, placing practical range estimates between approximately 360 km and 480 km for most variants.

Based on a global average residential electricity price of approximately $0.17 USD per kWh, the Zeekr X consumes approximately 13 kWh per 100 km — a solid efficiency figure for a compact SUV of this size and performance level, translating to very reasonable day-to-day running costs.

7. Zeekr X Charging Time and Efficiency

Fast Charging That Means Business

Charging speed is one of the areas where the updated Zeekr X makes its most dramatic improvement over its predecessor. The RWD model now supports DC fast charging at up to 230 kW, with a claimed 10–80% charge time of approximately 18 minutes — roughly 12 minutes faster than the previous generation. The AWD variant supports up to 150 kW DC fast charging, achieving 10–80% in approximately 30 minutes.

An 18-minute rapid charge is a genuinely class-leading figure for a compact SUV. In practical terms, that is roughly the time needed for a coffee stop at a motorway service area — your car is ready before you are.

AC Home Charging

For overnight home charging, the Zeekr X supports AC charging at up to 11 kW. A three-phase wallbox can fully charge the vehicle in approximately five hours and fifteen minutes — ideal for overnight top-ups at home or at work. The complimentary 7 kW home charger included with early purchase packages makes this convenient from the moment of delivery.

Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability is standard on all variants, allowing the Zeekr X to power external devices and appliances directly from its battery. This is a genuinely useful feature for camping trips, outdoor events, or emergency power situations — and one that the Tesla Model Y does not offer.

Warranty Coverage

Zeekr backs the X with a five-year unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year / 160,000-kilometre battery warranty. Servicing intervals are set at the earlier of two years or 40,000 kilometres — a straightforward and low-maintenance schedule well suited to urban and suburban owners.

8. Zeekr X Features and Technology

A Seriously Smart Electric Vehicle

Technology is arguably where the Zeekr X earns its premium badge most convincingly. The Zeekr AD advanced driving system is realised through five cameras, five millimetre-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars. Standard capabilities include adaptive cruise control, lane change assist, automatic parking assist, remote smart parking assist, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

That sensor suite is comprehensive and gives the Zeekr AD system a solid foundation for both highway driving assistance and low-speed manoeuvring — including the remote smart parking feature, which allows the driver to guide the car into a space without being seated inside.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 14.6-inch sliding central touchscreen is the heart of the Zeekr X’s digital experience. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and wireless device charging. The AR head-up display projects navigation and key driving information directly onto the windscreen, reducing the need to glance away from the road.

The centre console features a 7-litre storage compartment and 50 W fast wireless charging for mobile devices. The seating system across variants offers heating, ventilation, and significant adjustability, with the AWD model adding massage functionality and a built-in refrigerator as premium comfort touches.

Safety technology is comprehensively covered, with the full Zeekr AD sensor suite ensuring that features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure assistance work reliably across a wide range of driving conditions.

9. Zeekr X vs Tesla Model Y Comparison

The Big Rivalry

Any compact electric SUV review in 2025 inevitably leads to one question: how does it compare to the Tesla Model Y? The Model Y has dominated the global EV market for years and remains the benchmark. So where does the Zeekr X stand?

It is worth noting upfront that the two cars are not identical class competitors — the Model Y is a mid-size SUV while the Zeekr X is a compact SUV, meaning the Tesla is physically larger. However, both target a similar buyer profile: tech-forward, design-conscious drivers who want a premium electric experience without spending supercar money.

What the Comparison Tells Us

The Model Y wins on outright cargo space, Supercharger network access, and established brand recognition. But the Zeekr X responds with a significantly lower starting price, a superior vehicle warranty, standard AR-HUD, standard V2L capability, a uniquely sliding touchscreen, and — in RWD form — faster DC charging speeds. For buyers who prioritise design, technology, and value over boot space and brand familiarity, the Zeekr X makes a powerful argument.

10. Zeekr X Review: Pros, Cons and Verdict

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Final Verdict

The Zeekr X electric SUV is not trying to be just another affordable Chinese EV. It is genuinely aiming at the premium segment — and it largely delivers. From its striking design language and beautifully executed interior to its surprisingly potent performance and class-leading fast charging on the RWD, the Zeekr X makes a compelling case at every turn.

Its core strengths lie in dynamic performance, technology density, and outstanding value. The acceleration capability of the AWD variant makes it highly competitive among models in the same price range. The technology package — AR-HUD, sliding touchscreen, Zeekr AD driving assistance, V2L, Yamaha audio, massage seats on AWD — would not look out of place in a vehicle costing significantly more.

The Zeekr X is best suited to urban and suburban drivers who want a distinctive, well-equipped compact EV with real performance credentials and a generous warranty. If maximum cargo space or access to a proprietary charging network are your top priorities, the Tesla Model Y remains the stronger choice in those specific areas. But if you want something that stands out from the crowd, charges fast, drives brilliantly, and arrives with a warranty that puts many European rivals to shame — the Zeekr X is an outstanding option that absolutely deserves serious consideration.

China’s premium EV revolution is well underway. The Zeekr X is one of its finest ambassadors.