Zeekr X – Tested

The Zeekr X joins the competitive mid-sized SUV segment. Zeekr is from the Geely Group, which also owns Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. This ownership provides the car with good credentials. The X model shares its platform with the Volvo EX30, ensuring a solid mechanical foundation.

The stylish exterior resembles the smaller Volvo range. The design feels busy around the front lights and the rear glow-up bar. The body panels look good, though excessive plastic details detract from the sophisticated look. High-quality paint provides a nice pearlescent finish. Frameless doors and windows are attractive.

The car drives smoothly around town. The suspension feels comfortable, though not plush. While it offers impressive acceleration, this is not a sports car. It lacks confidence in corners and feels disconnected from the road. At high speeds, a lack of damping induces a wobble, suggesting it might understeer during sudden maneuvers. The steering wheel has a natural shape with a flattened bottom, but the plastic buttons on it feel cheap.

The interior has clean lines, but competing design styles create a battle between restraint and “party plastic.” The metal speaker grilles for the Yamaha stereo highlight the cabin. This exceptional 13-speaker system performs far beyond expectations for this price point. The interior is spacious, offering good legroom and headroom in both the front and back.

The technology suite presents a mixed experience. The heads-up display provides ample information, though it appears slightly warped. Microscopic driver instruments sit on a tiny screen, forcing the eye to shift focus significantly from the road. The white-on-white infotainment layout makes visibility difficult. Because the car relies heavily on the screen, users must navigate menus even for air conditioning adjustments.

The car includes numerous driver assistance functions. The adaptive cruise control and lane holding work well, though the steering wheel sensor occasionally fails to detect hands. Safety features like blind spot detection and automatic emergency braking add peace of mind. The car also features seven airbags and structural components from the Volvo platform.

The Zeekr X offers compelling value. The rear-wheel-drive version starts at $59,990, while the all-wheel-drive flagship costs $69,990. The rear-wheel-drive model hits 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, while the dual-motor version completes the sprint in a staggering 3.8 seconds. This level of acceleration feels unnecessary for a family car. The middle specification, including the convenience package with the Yamaha stereo and ventilated seats, represents the best choice.

Despite the strong value, some frustrations persist. The seats feel initially soft but become uncomfortable and cause soreness during longer drives. The lack of an accessory charger and a dislodged battery in the key fob suggest potential build quality issues. The vast glass roof lacks a shade, leading to constant sun strike. Physical controls for ventilation and mechanical door handles would improve the vehicle significantly.

The Zeekr X offers compelling value in the competitive mid-sized SUV segment. The middle specification with the Convenience Package provides the best balance of features, including the exceptional 13-speaker Yamaha audio system and ventilated seats. With a strong dealer network and a five-year unlimited kilometer warranty, the Zeekr X is as a sharp, high-value contender for families who can overlook minor quirks.

Zeekr X Specifications (NZ)