With its compact size and aggressive stance, the Zeekr X AWD isn’t just a pretty face; it’s an electrifying performer, hitting 0-100 km/h in a brisk 3.8 seconds and covering up to 420 km on a single charge.

Now available in Singapore, this compact five-seat SUV has all the style and speed to shake up the SUV scene here.

Shared Foundations, Unique Character

Born from Geely’s diverse automotive empire, Zeekr was established in 2021 as a premium electric brand. The Zeekr X stands on the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, sharing its tech DNA with vehicles like the Volvo EX30 and Smart models.

In the AWD model, which I took for a spin, the 66kWh battery powers two motors that together unleash an impressive 428hp.

Distinctive Design: Sharp, Edgy, and Scandinavian Cool

With styling that feels bold and futuristic, the Zeekr X projects a unique identity. There’s an almost primal intensity in its sharp, angular look—like the face of a velociraptor blended with the high-tech coolness of Iron Man. This edgy design stands out among EVs, and the cabin’s standard panoramic roof further heightens its sense of light and space.

One standout feature is the clever circular screen on the B pillar, which lights up to show charging information, adding a functional, techy flourish to the car’s design.

Modern, Even on the Inside

Stepping into the Zeekr X, you’re greeted by a cabin decked out in sleek, sustainable materials with a modern, premium feel. The seating position sits at that perfect crossover height, complemented by an 8.8-inch digital display for essential driving data and an impressive 14.6-inch infotainment screen that handles most functions.

But a word of caution—almost everything relies on the touchscreen, and while it’s responsive, the constant monitoring “nanny” camera adds an unwelcome layer of supervision. Yawn, and it will ask if you’re tired; glance at the screen too long, and you’ll be reprimanded for distraction. I’d personally prefer fewer tech interventions here.

On the flip side, the Yamaha 13-speaker surround sound system is pure bliss, easily one of the best I’ve heard in a car, adding to the Zeekr X’s list of features like a head-up display, wireless charging, and even heated massage seats.

Sort-of Spacious Interior

While the cabin feels open and roomy, smaller rear windows can make the back seats feel a bit enclosed. Rear passengers get plenty of legroom and headspace, though the battery placement under the floor means there’s no space to tuck your feet under the front seats. The boot space is decent, at 362 litres, expandable to 1,182 litres with the seats down, though a bit underwhelming for an SUV.

And remember that fridge? It doubles as a food warmer, with temperature settings from -5°C to 50°C. A very cool touch—literally and figuratively.

Performance: Lightning-fast but Lacks Precision

Dual motors give the Zeekr X an exhilarating 0-100 km/h sprint, but while it’s undeniably quick, the handling doesn’t fully match up. Yes, it’s fast and it will pin you back to your seat and it works well to make your passengers go “Woah!” But that’s about it.

The body control and handling don’t quite keep pace with its powerful acceleration; the soft suspension and some rear-end movement under hard acceleration make for a less-than-composed experience (even in a straight line).

It’s a fun ride, but one where control takes a back seat to raw speed.

A Practical Choice? Single Motor Option for Commuters

For everyday driving, the rear-wheel-drive Standard model may be the more sensible choice. At SGD 15,000 cheaper and offering a slightly longer range of 440 km with the same luxurious interior, it is our obvious pick.

All in all, the Zeekr X represents a fresh and innovative addition to the SUV market. It’s a compelling choice for those who want something more premium than a BYD, and would be willing to take a chance on something new and unconventional. a blend of speed, style, and sustainability that’s hard to ignore.

For now, our search for the best EV hot hatch goes on.

Technical Specifications

Zeekr X Dual-Motor 

Engine: Dual Motors
Power: 428bhp
Torque: 534Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 3.8 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180km/h
Battery Capacity: 66 kWh
Drive Range: 420 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 17.8 kWh/100 km (claimed)

Price: S$225,000 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Zeekr Singapore

Photo Credits: Joel Tam (@joel_tam)

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Nowadays, every manufacturer knows you need a compact SUV if you want to succeed in the crowded electric vehicle market, and Zeekr is no different. While other markets enjoy the 001 or 009 models first, Singapore buyers have the X as the first foray into the Zeekr brand.

Built on the same Scalable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform as the Smart #1 and the Volvo EX30, the Zeekr X comes ready to challenge heavyweights like the BYD Atto 3, Hyundai Kona, and Kia Niro EV.

But, can it carve out a niche for itself?

You either like the styling or don’t

Let’s first address the design elephant in the room. Most folks aren’t going to look at the Zeekr X and immediately fall head over heels.

It’s certainly not ugly, but it won’t be swooning people over immediately either. Think quirky, with a sprinkling of European flair.

Developed at Geely’s Global Design Centre in Stockholm, it’s a design that feels both familiar and foreign, with oversized headlights, intricate flanks, and a tapered rear.

There’s more to this car than just looks

Look past the exterior, and you start to understand why the Zeekr X makes sense.

On paper, you’ve got two options. The cheaper of the two is a Standard RWD variant with a single electric motor pumping 268bhp and 343Nm to the rear wheels, delivering a century sprint in 5.6 seconds.

Then there’s the Flagship model, which adds another motor for all-wheel drive, cranking out 422bhp, 543Nm and hitting 100 in just 3.8 seconds.

Sound familiar? That’s because those specs are nearly identical to the Smart #1 Pro+ and Brabus; the Zeekr manages to shave a tenth of a second off those acceleration times.

Punchy, in more ways than one

Even this basic RWD model packs enough punch for urban and highway driving. The Zeekr X is a boon to chuck around, with enough spirit to keep you entertained while driving enthusiastically. 

But here in lies a problem. The suspension is tuned for comfort but ends up feeling underdamped. On smooth roads, it’s fine, but introduce a few mid-corner bumps, and things start to get messy.

Body roll is noticeable, and the weight isn’t managed as well as it should be. The one-pedal braking is great for city driving but becomes less effective above 50km/h, so you’ll rely on the brake pedal, which feels a bit spongy.

As with most EVs, the steering is light and a bit artificial, especially when it weighs up at speed. You won’t be pushing this car hard into corners, but for everyday driving, it’s sufficient. Just don’t expect it to wow you with handling dynamics.

Any annoying bits?

Yes, the ADAS suite. It needs a rework.

The overspeed warning is piercing, and the lane-keeping aids tug at the wheel without much finesse. If this system struggles on Singapore roads, it’s going to have a tough time on the less-than-perfect tarmac found elsewhere.

Although, over-the-air updates may improve this bit in the future, with possible shortcuts in order to turn off any unnecessary safety features you are not particularly fond of.

I’m concerned about range

I hear you. The 66kWh battery is respectable; official WLTP ranges are 440km for the RWD version, which isn’t class-leading, but still serviceable for most weekly commuting needs.

Charging is decent enough too, with a max charge rate of 150kW, allowing for a 10-80% top-up in just 30 minutes. A quick coffee break, and you’re good to go.

The real beauty lies within

The cabin is where the Zeekr X really differentiates itself from its rivals. On one hand, you’ve got quirky touches like the oddly shaped puck that passes for a key, and unconventional window toggle switches that somehow work.

The Yamaha stereo is an absolute treat for the ears, and the interior’s swathes of vegan leather, mixed with a bit of rose-gold switchgear, make it feel quite premium. It’s solid too; panel gaps are tight, putting even some European brands to shame.

That said, space could be better. Rear passengers feel like they’re in a slightly cramped compartment, and the boot is a tad shallow. But overall, it feels well put together.

There’s a notable 8.8-inch instrument cluster paired with a 14.6-inch touchscreen that handles just about everything. And I mean everything. Physical switches? Forget about it.

The interface is crisp and fast, though it could use a bit of user-experience polish. Some of the more essential features, like ADAS, are buried under layers of menus, and you’ll need to jump out of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to adjust basic functions like climate control.

Zeekr does have a few fun tricks up its sleeve, though. Want to yell at pedestrians to cross? There’s a speaker for that. Feeling whimsical? Blast some animal sounds instead. It’s gimmicky, sure, but at least it’s memorable. I love it; where else can you neigh at a passing stranger?

Then there’s the thoughtful stuff, like an external display on the B-pillar that shows the car’s state of charge; no more awkwardly poking your head through the window to check.

Serious value for money, this

The Zeekr X shows great promise as a whole. The interior’s solid, you have enough features to keep you entertained, and the car is extremely easy to live with.

Yes, some items like the suspension and driver-assistance features need a bit of sorting out, but overall there’s serious potential here.

If you are someone who wishes to have their first foray into the world of EVs, the Zeekr X remains high on my recommendation list.

Technical Specifications

Zeekr X (Standard)

Powertrain: Single Electric Motor, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power: 200 kW (268 bhp)
Torque: 343 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
Acceleration: 5.6 Seconds (0-100km/h)
Battery Capacity: 66 kWh
Drive Range: 440 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 5.8 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$199,999 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Zeekr Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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