The automotive landscape is shifting. For years, established European giants like BMW, Audi, Mercedes, and Volvo have occupied the high ground of the premium SUV market, largely unbothered by the influx of Chinese brands. However, the arrival of the Zeekr 8X suggests that the era of “watching from the sidelines” is coming to an end.
While most Chinese imports have focused on mass-market electric vehicles, Zeekr is aiming directly for the heart of the luxury segment. The 8X isn’t just another SUV; it is a high-performance, technology-heavy plug-in hybrid (PHEV) designed to compete with heavyweights like the BMW X5 and Audi Q7.
Performance: Obscene Power and Massive Range
The headline figure for the Zeekr 8X is nothing short of staggering. In its top-tier Yaoying specification, the vehicle utilizes a 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with three electric motors to produce a massive 1,381bhp.
This power translates into:
– 0-62mph sprint: Approximately 3 seconds.
– Top speed: 143mph.
– Weight management: Despite weighing over 2.5 tonnes, the car utilizes air suspension with continuous damping control to maintain composure.
Perhaps more impressive than the raw speed is the battery capacity. The 8X features a 70kWh battery, which is larger than those found in many pure-electric vehicles. This allows for an electric-only range of roughly 205 miles (on the Chinese test cycle). Even when adjusted for more stringent European testing, the range remains significantly higher than almost any other PHEV currently on the market.
A “Tech Fest” on Wheels
Stepping into the 8X feels like entering a digital sanctuary. The vehicle is packed with “gadgets” that border on the futuristic:
– Automated Entry: Doors can open and close automatically via sensors and brake pedal inputs.
– Dual-Screen Cockpit: Massive 16-inch displays for both the driver and passenger dominate the dashboard, offering a highly responsive, Tesla-like interface.
– Rear-Seat Cinema: A 17-inch screen folds down from the roof, turning the back of the car into a private theater.
– Luxury Amenities: The cabin features soft leather, 22-point massage functions for all seats, and a built-in fridge that can keep items either warm or chilled.
While the sheer amount of technology is impressive, it does come with trade-offs. Most climate controls are buried within the touchscreen menus rather than having physical buttons, which can be distracting while driving.
Driving Dynamics: Grand Tourer vs. Sports Machine
It is vital to manage expectations regarding how this car actually drives. Despite the hyper-aggressive performance numbers, the Zeekr 8X is a Grand Tourer (GT), not a track-focused predator like a BMW X5 M.
“This isn’t a high-performance machine in the traditional sense; it’s a fast, heavy cruiser that excels in straight-line speed but struggles to match European precision in the corners.”
The steering feels light and slightly over-assisted, and the car’s immense weight becomes apparent when navigating tight bends or winding British B-roads. It can feel a bit hesitant when changing direction, requiring a moment to “settle” into a turn. However, the ride quality is commendable; even on large 22-inch wheels, the air suspension manages to absorb bumps without feeling harsh.
The Verdict: Luxury with a Focus on Passengers
The Zeekr 8X makes a clear choice in its design philosophy: it prioritizes rear-seat luxury over utility. While the legroom is cavernous (reminiscent of a Mercedes S-Class), the boot space is somewhat limited compared to its German rivals, as much of the interior volume is dedicated to passenger comfort and specialized tech.
Should you wait for it?
If Zeekr can land the 8X in the UK at a competitive price point, it will be a serious contender. While prices in China are much lower, UK estimates suggest a starting price of around £60,000, with this high-spec model potentially reaching £70,000.
Conclusion:
The Zeekr 8X is a bold, tech-saturated statement of intent from a brand looking to disrupt the luxury SUV market. While it may lack the surgical handling of its European rivals, its combination of immense power, massive electric range, and unparalleled rear-seat luxury makes it a formidable newcomer.
