2026 Zeekr 8X Review: Is This 898 HP PHEV the Ultimate Family SUV?
1. TL;DR — Highlights and Caveats
Highlights
3.7-Second 0-100 km/h in a 5-Meter SUVWith a combined system output of 660 kW (898 hp) and 935 Nm of torque, the Zeekr 8X 55kWh MAX delivers supercar-level acceleration in a full-size family SUV. It is the most powerful PHEV SUV in its price bracket by a wide margin.
Full-Stack 900V Ultra-Fast ChargingThe 55kWh battery supports 900V architecture, enabling 20% to 80% charge in roughly 9 minutes. This brings plug-in hybrid refueling convenience closer to that of a petrol station stop.
Spacious Executive 5-Seat LayoutMeasuring 5,100 mm in length with a 3,069 mm wheelbase, the 8X offers a genuine large 5-seat interior with generous rear legroom and a 1,133 to 2,200 L boot. The second-row zero-gravity lounge seat with 137 degree recline is a standout feature for long-distance family travel.
Caveats
Pure EV Range Second Among the Four320 km CLTC electric range trails the Denza D9's 401 km but beats the Voyah Dreamer at 235 km and Jetour G700 at 150 km.
Performance-Oriented Energy Consumption21.4 kWh per 100 km is reasonable for a large performance SUV, but slightly higher than the MPV competitors.
55kWh MAX Is the Dual-Motor VariantThis model produces 898 hp from two electric motors. Buyers seeking the full 1,400 hp tri-motor experience should look at the 70kWh or Dawn edition trims.
Verdict
The Zeekr 8X stands out as the performance benchmark among the four vehicles. It combines acceleration, charging speed, and space in a way no direct competitor at this price point currently matches. On overall product competitiveness — performance, charging, and intelligent hardware — the Zeekr 8X holds a generational advantage.
2. Model Overview
Zeekr is the premium new energy vehicle brand under Geely Holding Group, founded in 2021 and positioned as a global luxury intelligent technology marque. As of early 2026, Zeekr has entered more than 50 countries and regions worldwide, with cumulative global deliveries exceeding 720,000 vehicles — making it one of the few Chinese luxury brands with a presence across all five continents.
The Zeekr 8X is the brand's flagship plug-in hybrid SUV, launched on the occasion of Zeekr's fifth anniversary. It shares the same SEA-based architecture with the Zeekr 9X, benefiting from the same core technology stack including the SEP Hyper Electric Hybrid system, intelligent digital chassis, and comprehensive safety systems. At its launch in April 2026, the 8X received over 10,000 firm orders within 30 minutes, with 95.6 percent of orders being Ultra trim or above and an average order value exceeding 400,000 RMB.
The 8X is positioned as a high-performance family SUV. Its target audience is a new generation of discerning family buyers who refuse to compromise — drivers who want exhilarating performance without sacrificing passenger comfort and everyday practicality. The design language blends luxury and sportiness: a bold, squared-off exterior with a commanding road presence, and an interior featuring genuine open-pore wood trim, a 16.5-inch central OLED display, and a 29-speaker Naim audio system.
Inside, the cabin is centered around a dual-screen layout with single screen standard and passenger screen optional, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip driving five linked displays. Notably, Zeekr retained physical buttons for key controls — including seat adjustments, volume, and suspension settings — a deliberate design choice to improve usability over all-touch interfaces found in many competitors. The second-row zero-gravity lounge seat adjusts up to 137 degrees and comes with four-way leg support and an electric footrest, providing three-point body contour support for longer journeys.
Zeekr has confirmed the 8X's expansion to overseas markets: the Middle East launch begins in Q4 2026, followed by Central Asia and Europe, with Australia expected to follow in 2027.
To get a full walkthrough of the exterior and interior design, watch the YouTube review here: Zeekr 8X Review — Chasing Cars, at
3. Core Specifications
Vehicle Parameters
The Zeekr 8X 55kWh MAX rides on Geely's full-stack 900V high-voltage architecture, equipped with the SEP Hyper Electric Hybrid system and a 55kWh 6C battery pack. It achieves a CLTC-rated electric range of 320 km and a combined range of 1,362 km. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint takes just 3.7 seconds.
Core Specifications table:
| Parameter | Zeekr 8X MAX |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Class | Mid-size SUV |
| Powertrain | 2.0T 279Ps Plug-in Hybrid |
| Dimensions (mm) | 5100×1998×1780 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 3069 |
| Seating Configuration | 5-door 5-seater |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 2660 |
| Trunk Volume (L) | 1133-2200 |
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | 55.0 |
| CLTC Pure Electric Range (km) | 320 |
| CLTC Combined Range (km) | 1362 |
| 0-100 km/h Acceleration (s) | 3.7 |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 220 |
| System Max Power (kW) | 660 (898Ps) |
| System Max Torque (Nm) | 935 |
| WLTC Fuel Consumption (L/100km) | 0.41 |
| Energy Consumption (kWh/100km) | 21.4 |
| Transmission | 1-speed DHT |
| Drive Type | Electric AWD |
| Suspension | Front Double Wishbone + Rear Multi-link |
| Tire Size | 255/55 R20 |
| Fast Charging Architecture | 900V |
Charging Cost Estimates
Based on global average electricity price of 0.149 USD per kWh. Each 100 km of electric driving costs roughly 3 to 4 USD — significantly cheaper than any equivalent petrol SUV.
| Model | Energy Consumption | Cost per 100 km |
| Zeekr 8X MAX | 21.4 kWh/100km | $3.19 |
Warranty and Service
The Zeekr 8X comes with a 6-year or 150,000 km comprehensive warranty, with lifetime warranty on the high-voltage battery, electric motor, and electronic control systems subject to terms. Zeekr has sales and service networks in over 50 countries worldwide
4. Competitors Comparison
All four vehicles are priced between 300,000 and 360,000 RMB which is approximately 41,000 to 50,000 USD, but serve fundamentally different use cases. The Zeekr 8X is a performance-focused mid-large SUV, the Jetour G700 is a body-on-frame off-road SUV, while the Voyah Dreamer and Denza D9 are large MPVs. Their common ground: all are plug-in hybrids, all target family buyers, and all come with AWD.
In terms of performance, the Zeekr 8X's system power of 660 kW or 898 hp and 3.7-second 0 to 100 km/h time leave the competition far behind. Its 900V charging architecture also provides a generational advantage in charging speed. The Denza D9 leads in electric range at 401 km CLTC, making it ideal for daily EV commuting. The two MPVs offer 7-seat layouts for larger families.
Full specification comparison extracted from config sheets:
| Comparison Item | Zeekr 8X MAX | Jetour G700 Yount | Voyah Dreamer Qiankun Pro | Denza D9 AWD Flash Charge Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guide Price (10,000 CNY) | 35.68 | 34.99 | 35.99 | 35.98 |
| Engine | 2.0T 279Ps | 2.0T 211Ps | 1.5T 150Ps | 1.5T 156Ps |
| Max Engine Torque (Nm) | 410 | 340 | 220 | 225 |
| Engine Thermal Efficiency (%) | 46 | N/A | 45.18 | 45.3 |
| Fuel Grade | 95 RON | 92 RON | 95 RON | 92 RON |
| Total Motor Power (kW) | 660 (898Ps) | 510 (694Ps) | 370 (503Ps) | 245 (333Ps) |
| Total Motor Torque (Nm) | 935 | 795 | 620 | 425 |
| Front Motor Power (kW) | 290 | 210 | 210 | 200 |
| Rear Motor Power (kW) | 370 | 300 | 160 | 45 |
| Motor Layout | Front + Rear Dual Motors | Front + Rear Dual Motors | Front + Rear Dual Motors | Front + Rear Dual Motors |
| Transmission | 1-speed DHT | 2-speed DHT | Single-speed EV Transmission | E-CVT |
| Drive Type | Electric AWD | Longitudinal Electric AWD | Electric AWD | Electric AWD |
| Front Track (mm) | 1732 | 1730 | 1705 | 1675 |
| Rear Track (mm) | 1745 | 1730 | 1708 | 1675 |
| Minimum Ground Clearance (mm) | N/A | 230 | 133 | 140 |
| Body Structure | Unibody SUV | Body-on-frame Off-road SUV | MPV | MPV |
| Tire Spec | 255/55 R20 | 275/60 R20 | 255/50 R20 | 235/60 R18 |
| Fast Charging Platform | 900V High-Voltage | Non-900V Platform | N/A | N/A |
| Fast Charging SOC Range | 20%–80% | 30%–80% | 20%–80% | 10%–70% |
| WLTC Combined Fuel Consumption (L/100km) | 0.41 | 1.39 | 0.56 | 0.41 |
| Power Consumption (kWh/100km) | 21.4 | 25.6 | 21.2 | 23.0 |
Comparison Summary
The four vehicles differ most significantly in their product philosophy.
Zeekr 8X MAX is the only model built around performance as a core selling point. With 898 hp, a 3.7-second 0 to 100 km/h time, and 900V ultra-fast charging, it has few rivals at this price. Its generous 5-seat layout balances comfort and utility, targeting buyers who want both thrill and practicality.
Jetour G700 Yount features body-on-frame construction with serious off-road capability. The 2-speed DHT and larger 70L fuel tank make it suited for long-distance overlanding. However, its 150 km EV range means daily commuting will rely more on petrol.
Voyah Dreamer Qiankun Pro is a 7-seat MPV with the longest wheelbase at 3,200 mm and Huawei Qiankun intelligent driving system. A 5.9-second 0 to 100 km/h time is respectable for a large MPV.
Denza D9 AWD Flash Charge has the longest CLTC EV range at 401 km. The DM-i plug-in hybrid system is proven and reliable. However, it has the lowest system power at 333 hp and the slowest acceleration at 7.3 seconds in this comparison.
5. Expert Test Drive
Based on early international test drives published by Chasing Cars, CarSauce, CarsGuide and Drive, the Zeekr 8X’s main strengths and weaknesses can be summarized as follows.
Strengths
Stunning AccelerationThe Zeekr 8X accelerates with authority. Despite a curb weight exceeding 2.6 tons, full-throttle acceleration is violent yet linear. The front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension, combined with dual-chamber air springs and continuously adjustable dampers, delivers impressive body control across drive modes.
Chassis Quality and HandlingThe electronically controlled active anti-roll system reduces body lean during cornering while allowing more wheel articulation at low speeds for comfort. Steering response is direct and the front end is predictable — impressive for a vehicle this size.
Interior Materials and NVHThe cabin is wrapped in generous soft-touch surfaces, genuine wood trim, and suede headliner. Build quality is excellent with no rattles on rough roads. Cabin noise isolation is impressive, and the powertrain transitions between electric and hybrid modes smoothly and quietly.
Areas for Improvement
Large Wheels Compromise Ride ComfortThe 22-inch wheels with low-profile tires struggle to absorb sharp urban imperfections, even in Comfort mode. Buyers who prioritize ride quality may want to opt for 20 or 21-inch wheels.
Flat Seats Lack Lateral SupportThe seat cushions are notably flat with minimal side bolstering. In a vehicle with nearly 900 hp, the driver is not firmly held in place during spirited cornering.
Steering Lacks FeedbackWhile the steering is direct enough, it feels light and somewhat numb. The 2.6-ton curb weight means the chassis always feels a beat behind the driver's inputs.
Real-World Driving Scenarios
During high-speed braking and acceleration runs, the Zeekr 8X demonstrated strong and consistent stopping power. The four-piston front calipers delivered linear, confidence-inspiring deceleration even under hard braking. In the moose test, the active anti-roll system and air suspension kept the massive SUV surprisingly flat and composed.
In city commuting, the pure electric mode is the highlight. The AI energy management system automatically selects between EV, range-extender, and hybrid modes based on route conditions, allowing daily driving to be done entirely on electric power with only occasional charging needed.
6. Real Owner Reviews
The comments were translated and summarized from Chinese owner discussions
Positive Feedback
Powertrain and Driving DynamicsSummary: Owners consistently praise the 8X's power delivery and chassis tuning, noting that it offers outstanding performance for its price segment while maintaining acceptable ride comfort.
Quote: The chassis handles great, it's fun on mountain roads, and comfortable for passengers. No more compromises needed.
Quote: The Zeekr 8X balances family comfort and driving performance. It handles daily commuting and family trips while still being satisfying when you want to have some fun behind the wheel.
Intelligent CockpitSummary: The Snapdragon 8295-powered infotainment is smooth, the five-screen connectivity works well, and the retention of physical buttons makes the system accessible for all ages.
Quote: The interface is clean, physical buttons are kept for key controls, and it's easy for elderly family members to learn.
Quote: OTA updates run silently in the background without disrupting use. Basic functions remain free.
Fast Charging and Low Running CostsSummary: The 900V architecture delivers genuinely faster charging than any competitor, and the cost of electric driving is remarkably low.
Quote: One owner in Taiyuan reported a combined fuel consumption of just 1L per 100km — electric for daily errands, petrol for peace of mind on long trips.
Quote: 900V fast charging, 20 to 80 percent in about 9 minutes. Short-distance recharging efficiency is comparable to filling up at a gas station.
Negative Feedback
Higher Energy Consumption and Winter Range LossSummary: The heavy curb weight and performance tuning lead to above-average energy consumption. Winter range reduction is noticeable — buyers in cold climates should be aware.
Quote: At highway speeds above 120 km/h, range drops by 20 percent. In winter, the pure EV range shrinks by 15 to 20 percent.
Quote: The car is heavy and city energy consumption runs high. Winter range loss is real. If you only need an around-town commuter, consider carefully.
Occasional Infotainment Glitches and Learning CurveSummary: While generally smooth, the deep menu structure requires an adjustment period, and a minority of owners have experienced occasional lag requiring a restart.
Quote: There are many features buried in deep menus — it takes time to learn. A few owners experienced occasional lag that required a reboot.
Quote: Post-OTA updates sometimes introduce minor bugs that need to be fixed in the next patch.
7. References
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Global Petrol Prices (2025). World Average Electricity Prices, USD / kWh. Retrieved from https://www.globalpetrolprices.com/electricity_prices/
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Zeekr Official. Zeekr 8X Product Page. Retrieved from https://www.zeekrgroup.com
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CarNewsChina (2026). Zeekr 9X global rollout starts June, Europe entry set for Q4 2026; 8X follows late 2026. Retrieved from https://carnewschina.com/2026/04/30/zeekr-9x-global-rollout-starts-june-europe-entry-set-for-q4-2026-8x-follows-late-2026
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Chasing Cars (2026). Zeekr 8X Review: $50K Cheaper Than a BMW X5!? Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYe7-WWU-Lw
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CarSauce (2026). 2026 Zeekr 8X Review: F\*cking Phenomenal. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5GSU5N9Cq0
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CarsGuide Australia (2026). Zeekr 8X 2027 review: International first drive. Retrieved from https://www.carsguide.com.au/zeekr/8x/reviews/2026
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carnewschina.com (2026). Sunday China Drive | Zeekr 8X Ultra Plus tested. Retrieved from https://carnewschina.com/2026/05/03/sunday-china-drive-zeekr-8x-ultra-plus-tested-with-885-hp-hybrid-europe-entry-late-2026
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IEA (2025). Global EV Policy Explorer. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/data-and-statistics/data-tools/global-ev-policy-explorer
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CCTV Auto (2026). 极氪8X上市半小时大定破万. Retrieved from https://auto.cctv.com/2026/04/20/ARTIFYDRCVuBe6dekUYNhEcD260420.shtml
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Drive.com.au (2026). 2026 Zeekr 8X review: this luxury large SUV could change the game. Retrieved from https://www.drive.com.au/reviews/2026-zeekr-8x-review-international-first-drive
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Zecar (2026). Zeekr 8X PHEV SUV confirmed for Australia in 2027. Retrieved from https://zecar.com/reviews/zeekr-8x-phev-suv-confirmed-for-australia-in-2027
