Zeekr X first drive | Geely EV tested ahead of 2025 launch

The Zeekr X is a compact SUV similar in size to the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40. It’s available with a 69kWh lithium-ion battery, capable of a 280-mile range in its single motor, rear-wheel drive Long Range Model. The higher spec, dual-motor, all-wheel drive Privilege version posts figures of 428PS and scintillating torque to accelerate from 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds, albeit for a 10% sacrifice in range.

Geely-owned Zeekr is setting out its stall as a premium brand, and the X is certainly richly specified, showcasing the latest connectivity technology and 19 ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems). Five cameras and five radar support vehicle and river safety – a driver monitoring camera checks for drowsiness and distraction.

Under the skin, the Zeekr X sits on the same platform as the Smart #1 and the upcoming Volvo EX30. It's set to hit UK roads in 2025.

Inside its spacious cabin the X has luxury touch points, with leather-like PU door coverings, dashboard and steering wheel (Zeekr says it has avoided natural leather for sustainability reasons). However, the plastics in the front footwells and door pockets are a bit shiny and hard, scuffing easily and not quite living up to the brand’s premium intentions. Zeekr said the test cars are pre-production, and there may be subsequent changes. Rear headroom easily accommodates six-footers below a panoramic roof that comes as standard.

Out on the road, the X is easy to drive and if its acceleration does not feel as urgent as its performance figures suggest, it still rivals most ICE cars, reaching speed limits in the blink of an eye. Stability is reassuring when cornering, and front visibility is good, although the view through the small rear window in limited, so reversing relies on the rear-view camera.

There’s an on-board AC charger capable of 20kW speeds, plus 150kW DC charging capabilities, which will complete the standard 20-80% charge in 30 minutes. Sophisticated route planning software can not only plot charging stops on longer journeys, but also pre-heat the batteries for a rapid charge. Handily, when the X is plugged in, an exterior digital dial in the B pillar gives the state of charge in the batteries as well as how long a charging session has left, with the information mirrored on the Zeekr app.

Apps feature heavily in the 14.6-inch central console, which seems to offer an infinite set of configuration permutations to suit each individual driver, as well as a broad range of infotainment options, including Apple Carplay and Google Auto. With 5G capabilities the car can host Teams conferences for busy company car drivers out on the road and serve as a WiFi hotspot for laptop work. Connectivity is free for the first year and €99pa thereafter.

The X is available in four colours and two trim levels – Long Range Rear Wheel Drive and Privilege All Wheel Drive, the latter featuring 20-inch wheels and massage front seats among its upgrades. Neat standard features include a panoramic sunroof, as well as a ‘pet temperature’ gauge that keeps Fido comfortable while displaying a billboard-size explanation on the central screen to reassure passing pet lovers that animals are chilling in air-conditioned luxury.