New Zeekr 8X review: 1,381bhp plug-in hybrid SUV is an absolute tech-fest
While the Zeekr 8X comes with huge levels of power, space and tech, it can’t quite match its European rivals when it comes to its driving experience.
Huge plug-in hybrid battery, huge power and performance figures and huge interior space dominate the Zeekr 8X’s headlines, but there’s a mountain of technology to go with it at what could be a very tempting price. The driving experience, while not bad for a Chinese SUV, doesn’t stack up against European rivals in terms of handling, body control, steering feel and overall capability, but the classy interior is up with the best we’ve seen on a Chinese model, and if it’s priced as competitively as expected, it could make something of a mark if and when the planned 2027 entrance comes to fruition.
We’re used to new Chinese electric SUV after electric SUV landing on our roads as alternatives to mainstream brands, but the top end of the market has been relatively untouched. BMW, Audi, Mercedes and Volvo have pretty much sat back and watched it all unfold beneath them.
But that could be about to change. Zeekr has designs on the more premium end of the UK car market, with the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 very much in the sights of its 8X which, while not yet officially confirmed for the UK, is expected to land here in 2027. And Auto Express has managed to get behind the wheel of the first car in Europe ahead of its expected sales confirmation later this year, to see how it stands up to the unique challenge of UK roads.
The headline figure is a big one – not usually running to four figures. In top Yaoying spec, the 8X has, via its PHEV 2.0-litre petrol engine that combines with no fewer than three electric motors, a staggering 1,381bhp, which is claimed to be good for a 0-62mph time of around three seconds. In something weighing considerably more than 2.5 tonnes.
That significant weight is kept in check by air suspension with continuous damping control, and the hefty 70kWh battery – bigger than what you’ll find in many pure-electric vehicles – gives the 8X an electric-only range of around 205 miles on the less-stringent Chinese test cycle. Even if that drops to around 150 miles in European tests, it still dwarfs any PHEV currently on sale.
On the outside, the Zeekr is one of the more European-styled SUVs coming from China. It’s got hints of Audi Q7 as well as a bit of Genesis about it, from the front and side in particular, while the chintzy crystal effect to the daytime running lights and rear light bar is designed to add a premium touch. Although UK specs are yet to be confirmed, the car we drove sat on chunky 22-inch five-spoke alloys and featured both a three-position powered rear spoiler and running boards that can pop out when you open the door.
Physically getting in is the first sign that the 8X is an absolute tech fest. The doors are auto-opening and closing – just grab the door handle and the doors magically swing open, and the driver only has to dab the brake pedal to swing theirs shut. It’s not new – top-end prestige cars have featured the tech – but not at this potential price point. It’s a bit of a gimmick, and can be slower than just pulling the door shut yourself, but it’s a neat party trick.
On the inside, the big plush seats are a giveaway that this is a more premium SUV than current Chinese fare in the UK. Especially when combined with the red seatbelts and stitching across the leather interior – always a sign someone is trying to be sporty. The front and rear seats are heated, cooled and have a 22-point massage function. But everything is overshadowed by the frankly ridiculously large 16-inch screens – one for the driver and one for the passenger. Functionality is good – it feels a bit like the Tesla operating system with the way the menus function, and although our car wasn’t configured to European navigation or audio settings, everything seemed ultra responsive. It’s a shame the temperature controls run through the touchscreen rather than separate buttons, but it’s a logical system that’s not as tricky as some to use on the move.
Read More https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/zeekr/369450/new-zeekr-8x-review-1381bhp-plug-hybrid-suv-absolute-tech-fest
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