2026 Zeekr X RWD Review

Australian pricing for the newly upgraded 2026 Zeekr X compact electric SUV has been announced, with the Chinese marque introducing substantial price reductions spanning thousands of dollars across both model variants.

For the 2026 model year (MY26), the single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant sees its starting drive-away price drop to $48,900 AUD (previously $49,900 AUD before on-road costs); meanwhile, the flagship dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) model now opens at $57,900 AUD drive-away (previously $62,900 AUD before on-road costs). The updated model lineup arrived in Australian showrooms in May.

Despite the substantial price cuts, the standard equipment roster across both variants has been bolstered, with the AWD version receiving the most substantial upgrades.

Exterior additions include:

• All-new Khaki Green matte paint and Onyx Black colour choices (AWD exclusive)
• Optional 20-inch black forged alloy wheels (AWD exclusive)
• Optional automatic power doors (AWD exclusive)

Interior additions include:

• Heated rear seats
• Front seat massage function (AWD exclusive)
• Onboard refrigerator beneath the front centre armrest (AWD exclusive)
• Capacitive touch shortcut buttons on the steering wheel
• 13-speaker Yamaha surround-sound audio system

Grey currently serves as the standard interior colourway across the range, with white interior upholstery available as an option on both RWD and AWD grades. The AWD variant also exclusively offers a black interior paired with red seatbelts.

What are the powertrain Specifications of the 2026 Zeekr X Series?

As before, the 2026 Zeekr X is available in RWD and AWD configurations, with peak power output on both variants now bumped by 50kW.

The 2026 Zeekr X RWD now adopts the brand’s new "Golden Battery" technology, featuring the same new 61kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and Cell-to-Pack (CTP) moduleless architecture seen in the larger 7X. Zeekr notes the new battery is "further optimized for faster charging speeds, enhanced safety, and superior thermal stability".

This means the entry-level variant now accepts up to 230kW DC fast charging (up from 150kW), slashing the 10% to 80% replenishment time to around 18 minutes—a reduction of approximately 12 minutes. By contrast, the nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) ternary lithium battery pack in the AWD variant retains its existing 150kW DC fast-charging ceiling.

Both models also enjoy upgraded AC charging capabilities: the RWD variant now supports up to 11kW (up from 7.2kW), while the AWD version doubles its charging rate to 22kW (up from 11kW).

In terms of driving range, the 2026 Zeekr X RWD delivers a WLTP rated range of 405km, while the AWD model achieves 415km. For reference, the pre-update models claimed ADR (NEDC) rated ranges of 540km and 470km respectively.

How does the 2026 Zeekr X look from the outside?

Across the front fascia, the Zeekr X employs Lynk & Co 2.0 design cues, pairing daytime running lights with slender headlight clusters to produce a thoroughly contemporary presence. The dual character creases stamped into the bonnet even impart a faint, mischievous "Voldemort" countenance.

In profile, the body lines are remarkably sharp, demonstrating how the Zeekr X works to trim visual bulk from the side sills to emphasize athletic poise. The wheel arches feature refined high-gloss black cladding that delivers genuine premium sophistication.

Furthermore, details like the upward-kicking rear window beltline and hooked tail-lights lend the car distinct design substance. Additionally, omitting a rear quarter window echoes European hatchback styling conventions. However, this creates a minor functional compromise: the rear door glass rolls down only halfway, leaving our photographer somewhat squeezed during tracking shots. Naturally, for typical family buyers, this is of little consequence.

The Zeekr X utilizes flush pop-out door handles similar to Tesla, though their physical deployment adds a welcome sense of arrival ceremony. Frameless concealed window weatherstrips look sleek, though they represent an expensive manufacturing solution.

The charging port door is massive, designed so that shut lines align seamlessly with existing body panel gaps to preserve minimalist styling, albeit at significant engineering expense. One minor quirk: it appears to lack anti-pinch protection, so care is warranted.

The rear styling is similarly chic, featuring an ultra-slim full-width light bar with the illuminated Zeekr badge embedded behind the outer lens.

Regarding exterior colours, the 2026 Zeekr X lineup offers the following shades at no extra charge: Crystal White pearl, Palace Beige metallic, Mist Grey metallic, Grid Grey metallic, and Pine Green metallic.

How is the interior of the 2026 Zeekr X?

The cabin of the Zeekr X presents several charming highlights, particularly in how effectively it cultivates luxury. While the green surfaces feature obvious plastic graining, they deliver an unmistakable British aesthetic; conversely, the white areas incorporate generous soft padding, supple leatherette, ubiquitous rose-gold trim accents, and designer coat hooks that collectively project classic luxury flair.

The 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster is fixed directly to the steering column, meaning portions of the display can be obstructed by the steering wheel rim. The viewing distance also requires frequent focal readjustment for the eyes, which feels merely average in practice.

Centrally positioned on the dash is a 14.6-inch touchscreen driven by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor—a familiar setup. The user interface graphics feel somewhat lacking in delicate polish, with visible pixelation across certain animations, though touch response remains swift. Regrettably, the party-trick sliding central display found on Chinese-market models was removed for Australia; while not entirely essential, omitting such an entertaining piece of technical showmanship is a shame.

The most theatrical party trick inside is the motorized centre console that slides fore and aft. This allows the driver to slide the console rearward and step out through the front passenger door in tight parking spaces, which proves surprisingly practical.

On Chinese-market models, the rear section of this sliding console also housed a removable mini-refrigerator; sadly, that innovative execution has been simplified for the Australian-market Zeekr X, succumbing to cost containment.

The standard Charcoal Black and Stone Grey interior colour schemes can be upgraded to Midnight Blue/Polar White or Mulberry/Rose, with the latter two two-tone finishes attracting a $500 AUD surcharge.

What is the dimensions of the 2026 Zeekr X?

Dimensionally, the 2026 Zeekr X measures 4,432mm in length, 1,836mm in width, 1,566mm in height, and rides on a 2,750mm wheelbase. Boot capacity is rated at 404 litres, expanding to 1,247 litres when the rear seats are folded down.

In terms of interior room, front-seat accommodation is fine, though the floor is set quite high, meaning occupants over 1.7 metres tall may brush against the steering column during ingress and egress. Furthermore, the front passenger zero-gravity lounge seat available on Chinese-market AWD variants is another notable omission from the Australian specification.

Rear-seat room is adequate for passengers around 1.6 metres tall, but an adult measuring 1.7 metres is left with merely a fist of knee clearance—barely acceptable. The rear seat base is also positioned low, leaving under-thigh support lacking in a way that feels at odds with its generous 2,750mm wheelbase. However, given most buyers will be couples or young families using the back row primarily for children, this may not be a dealbreaker.

What is the ownership and warranty coverage for the 2026 Zeekr X?

While the five-year vehicle warranty remains unchanged, Zeekr has confirmed that routine servicing intervals for the 2026 Zeekr X have been shortened from the previous 24 months/40,000km schedule to 12 months/20,000km.

For context, scheduled service costs across odd-numbered years (Year 1, Year 3, etc.) are capped at $279 AUD for both models through Year 7; the price divergence appears during major services on even-numbered years (Year 2, Year 4, etc.), where a single service visit on the AWD variant can reach up to $1,450 AUD.

How safe is the 2026 Zeekr X?

Based on crash testing conducted by Euro NCAP in 2024, the pre-update Zeekr X secured a five-star ANCAP safety rating, which is expected to carry over to 2026 models.

All Zeekr X variants come fitted with the brand’s new Zeekr AD intelligent driver-assist suite, incorporating 5 high-definition cameras, 5 millimetre-wave radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors across the body, and a remote parking assist system tailored for tight urban environments.

Notably, Euro NCAP confirmed the Zeekr X was the first vehicle utilized in experimental research testing, assisting European and Australian safety bodies in drafting new 2029 test protocols to assess how advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) interact collaboratively.

What is the equipment breakdown for the 2026 Zeekr X Range?

2026 Zeekr X RWD Standard Equipment Includes:  

• 19-inch alloy wheels (with Continental tyres)
• Panoramic glass roof
• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power capability
• Semi-automated parking assist
• 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster
• 14.6-inch central infotainment touchscreen (supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
• Wireless smartphone charging
• Dual-zone climate control with B-pillar rear air vents
• Pet Mode, Sentry Mode, and Rest Mode

2026 Zeekr X AWD Upgrades (in addition to RWD):

• 20-inch forged alloy wheels
• 24.3-inch augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD)
• Six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
• Driver's seat memory with four-way power lumbar support
• Front seat ventilation and massage functions
• Heated steering wheel
• 13-speaker Yamaha premium audio system
• "Ice Block" LED ambient interior lighting

Zeekr X RWD & AWD Shared Options:

• Premium paint: $1,000 AUD
• Interior colourway (non-grey): $1,000 AUD

Zeekr X AWD Exclusive Options:

• Power automatic doors: $2,000 AUD
• Matte green exterior paint: $2,000 AUD
• Black interior package (with red seatbelts and contrast stitching) + 20-inch black alloy wheels: $2,000 AUD

What is the 2026 Zeekr X like to drive?

The Zeekr X delivers the finest driving experience among the recent batch of pure electric models we have evaluated, particularly in the dual-motor AWD tester equipped with 315kW and 545Nm, which dispatches the 0–100km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds.

Although its on-paper figures suggest hot-hatch punch, it avoids the harsh, brittle ride of European performance hatches, skewing heavily toward the everyday comfort demanded in urban commuting. The chassis rounds off sharp bumps and surface crests smoothly, taking the sting out of sudden impacts. The secondary damping provides reassuring body control without feeling overly stiff or abrupt, and when paired with the tenacious grip of its Continental rubber, it strikes a commendable balance between sportiness and daily suppleness.

Across acceleration response, brake pedal modulation, and steering feel, the Zeekr X maintains an approachable, comfort-biased demeanor. Power delivery is measured rather than overly abrupt, and the steering combines agile turn-in with stable weighting, making it thoroughly pleasant and natural to pilot.

How Much Does the 2026 Zeekr X Range Cost?

• 2026 Zeekr X RWD: $48,900 AUD (Drive-away)
• 2026 Zeekr X AWD: $57,900 AUD (Drive-away)

2026 Zeekr X Series Review: Final Verdict

In my view, buyers drawn to a stylish, compact runabout like the Zeekr X will almost certainly purchase it as a household second car. They are also unlikely to be very young, given that affording either variant requires the solid income of middle-class Australian households, as neither opening price qualifies as cheap.

While the Zeekr X drives exceptionally well and the RWD's $48,900 AUD drive-away price is reasonable, unlocking desirable premium appointments requires stretching to the AWD. At $57,900 AUD, it commands a higher price tag than larger, longer-range alternatives like the BYD Sealion 7 Premium ($54,990 AUD), which features a larger battery and a higher vehicle segment footprint.

Compounding this, several standout party tricks from the Chinese-market version—such as the sliding centre display, sliding console with removable fridge, and front passenger zero-gravity seat—have been omitted for Australia, removing the very USPs best suited to justifying its premium sticker.

Zeekr likely does not benchmark the X against mainstream budget EVs like the MG 4 or BYD Atto 3, viewing its true rivals as the Mini Countryman E, Smart #1, or its platform stablemate, the Volvo EX30. Viewed through that premium compact lens, the Zeekr X's repositioned pricing makes far more sense.