The Zeekr X, expected to be one of the brand’s initial models when it enters the UK later this year, has received several technical and cosmetic updates for the 2026 model year.
We traveled to Southeast Asia to experience the latest version of the all-electric compact SUV, and here are some key observations, and the updates that we noticed:
Design
The Zeekr X has a playful character, with crossover-like proportions and offbeat design elements that suit its compact, Europe-friendly dimensions. It mixes rounded and angular forms to create a strong visual contrast.
At the front, the low-set, sloping bonnet features a raised centre section and is flanked by technical-looking DRLs. The headlights have been integrated into noticeably wide housings in the bumper, which is largely covered and integrates vertical side air inlets. The cooling needs of the core components are taken care of by an A-shaped wide air intake at the bottom.
The side profile of the Zeekr X has a quirky look. The roofline stays nearly flat until the C-pillar before dropping sharply towards the rear, while the beltline remains straight until the middle of the rear doors and then kicks upward.
Sharp character lines, frameless doors, and flush-integrated door handles are also visible here. At the rear, the Zeekr X has a stubby appearance. The short windscreen and slim tail-lights give it a sleek look, which is offset by a pronounced lower fascia.
Interior
The Zeekr X’s interior looks as quirky as its exterior, with a minimalist dashboard and a bright, airy ambience created by the large panoramic glass roof.
The cabin has a clean horizontal layout, a two-spoke steering wheel, a compact digital instrument cluster, and a free-standing central touchscreen, giving it a tech-heavy but uncluttered appearance.
The interior of the MY2026 Zeekr X is defined by the 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Zeekr also includes features such as an 8.8-inch instrument display, a 24.3-inch AR-HUD, a dual wireless smartphone charger, and a hot-and-cold refrigerator.
Experience in the new Zeekr X
I spent time in the updated global-spec Zeekr X, and the first impression is very tech-led. The motorised door opening, operated through a small button, feels distinctive, while the frameless doors on all four sides add a genuinely premium touch. It does feel special approaching and entering the car.
Inside, the front seats are comfortable and electrically adjustable. Back support is good, shoulder support works well for my height, and the fixed headrests are comfortable, though I would have liked slightly better under-thigh support. Headroom is generous, with a little more than 10 cm between my head and the glass roof.
The cabin feels premium for the segment. I liked the red stitching, red seat belts, multi-layer dashboard and the ‘Ice Block’ ambient lighting grille, which give the interior a youthful look. The cooled centre console, padded storage areas, adjustable cupholders and smooth-closing compartments also add to the sense of quality.
The oblong steering wheel gives a clear view of the digital cluster, and the central screen is quick to respond. However, the shortcut buttons below the horn pad could have been more tactile.
Visibility is mixed. The front A-pillars could be thinner, though the quarter glass helps. Rear visibility is not great because of the combination of the thick rear pillar, rising beltline, small rear screen and three rear headrests.
The rear seat is where the Zeekr X loses ground. With the front seat set to my position, I sat knees-up, with poor knee room and limited foot space. It is not comfortable for a six-footer over longer journeys.
Specifications
The Zeekr X measures 4,432 mm in length, 1,836 mm in width, and 1,566 mm in height, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase. It is available in Europe in three variants: Core RWD, Long Range RWD, and Privilege AWD. The Core RWD and Long Range RWD use a single electric motor, while the Privilege AWD gets a dual-motor setup.
The Core RWD configuration’s motor produces 200 kW (268 bhp) and 343 Nm (253 lb.-ft.) of torque, while the Long Range RWD configuration’s motor develops 250 kW (335 bhp) and 373 Nm (275 lb.-ft.) of torque. The Privilege AWD configuration’s two motors give it an improved 365 kW (489 bhp) and 573 Nm (423 lb.-ft.) of torque.
Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) takes 5.9 seconds in the Core RWD, 5.5 seconds in the Long Range RWD, and 3.7 seconds in the Privilege AWD. The top speed is limited to 190 km/h (118 mph) across the range.
The Core RWD configuration features a 49 kWh LFP battery pack and has a WLTP range of 330 kilometres (205 miles). The Long Range RWD configuration has a new 61 kWh LFP battery pack and is capable of travelling 405 kilometres (252 miles) on a single charge.
The Privilege AWD configuration upgrades to a 69 kWh NMC battery pack, and it has a WLTP range of 415 kilometres (258 miles).
The 49 kWh LFP battery pack is chargeable at up to 130 kW and takes 30 minutes for a 10-80% DC charging session. The new 61 kWh unit, with a peak charging input of 230 kW, accomplishes the same in 18 minutes.
The 69 kWh NMC battery pack can be charged at up to 150 kW and takes 30 minutes for a 10-80% DC charging session. Zeekr offers 22 kW AC onboard charging in the top-end X (NMC battery), which takes just 4 hours to charge from 0-100%, an overlooked but practical addition.
Price
In Germany, the Zeekr X retails at EUR 37,990 (GBP 32,783) in the Core RWD configuration, EUR 42,990 (GBP 37,098) in the Long Range RWD configuration, and EUR 47,990 (GBP 41,413) in the Privilege AWD configuration.
If priced from around £35,000, the Zeekr X could be a unique addition to the UK’s compact electric SUV segment.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
