The Zeekr X is a small electric vehicle (EV) that has been making waves in Australia, but not for the reasons you might expect. While it may not be the star of the show, the Zeekr X has some impressive features that set it apart from its competitors. In this article, I'll take a deep dive into the Zeekr X, exploring its strengths and weaknesses, and offering my own insights and analysis. So, let's get started!
A Small Package with Big Potential
The Zeekr X is a small SUV that packs a punch. With a powerful rear motor, the X delivers impressive performance, accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.6 seconds. But what really sets the X apart is its high-end equipment and luxurious-feeling cabin. The X is a well-equipped small SUV, offering a range of features that are typically found in larger vehicles.
One of the things that immediately stands out is the 14.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This is a welcome addition for drivers who want to stay connected and entertained on the road. The head-up display is another great feature, providing drivers with important information without taking their eyes off the road. The X also comes with a 13-speaker Yamaha sound system, ensuring that drivers can enjoy their favorite tunes while on the go.
A Well-Designed Small SUV
The Zeekr X has a futuristic-style design that sets it apart from its competitors. The visual changes are subtle, but they add up to create a unique and modern look. The 'Matt Khaki Green' color of our test car is particularly striking, and the two-tone black roof adds a touch of elegance. The X also comes with 19- or 20-inch alloys, which further enhance its sleek and stylish appearance.
Inside, the X is a seriously well-equipped and polished-feeling small SUV. The material choices are high-quality, and the overall feel is premium. The cabin is serene and quiet, providing drivers with a peaceful and comfortable driving experience. However, I did find the tech a bit fiddly in places, and the ride might be too firm for some drivers. The X is a small vehicle, so there's limited space for driver and passenger, but clever storage helps to mitigate this.
A Powerful Motor and Impressive Efficiency
The Zeekr X is powered by a more powerful rear motor, delivering 250kW of output. This is a significant upgrade from the previous model, and it shows in the X's impressive performance. The X also comes with a 61kWh LFP battery, which can accept up to 230kW DC fast charging, taking you from 10 to 80% charged in just 18 minutes. The claimed range is 405km, which is impressive for a small EV.
However, the flagship AWD version has a slower charging rate, with a 66kWh NMN battery and a maximum charging speed of 150kW. This means that the same charge takes 30 minutes, and the claimed range is 415km. This is still impressive, but it's worth noting that the X's efficiency is where it starts to get a bit weird.
A Pleasant Drive with Some Caveats
The Zeekr X is a pleasure to drive, with a firm ride that improves the overall driving experience. The cabin is serene and quiet, and the X doesn't feel like a small car. However, I did find the ride a bit harsh at times, and the acceleration doesn't quite match the on-paper promise. The X serves up supercar speed, but it doesn't feel like it from behind the wheel. Instead, the acceleration feels potent, but not biblical.
A Solid Safety Record
The Zeekr X wears a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating, earned in 2024. This means that the X comes with a long list of required active safety features, including five cameras, five radars, and 12 sensors. The X also has seven airbags, including a center front airbag, and ISOFIX anchors on the rear outboard seats. The safety rating is a significant selling point for drivers who prioritize safety.
Ownership and Running Costs
Zeekr's coverage is an underwhelming five-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty, while the drive battery is covered for eight years or 160,000km. There's also five years' of roadside assistance thrown in. Service intervals are 20,000km or 12 months, with five years' of ownership setting you back a hefty $3072. The running costs are average, but the warranty coverage is a bit disappointing.
A Premium Player at a More Affordable Price
The Zeekr X is a good thing in a small package, and there are a lot of things I like about it. However, the price is a sticking point for me. If you see the X as a premium player, it's really a more affordable version of a Volvo. But if you're looking for a more affordable option, there are plenty of other choices out there. The X is a solid choice, but it's not without its flaws. Personally, I think the X is a great small EV, but it's not perfect. It's a well-designed and well-equipped vehicle, but it's not without its quirks. In my opinion, the X is a solid choice for drivers who want a small EV with a premium feel, but it's not the only option out there.
