Cover The new Zeekr X
The new Zeekr X
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During my recent test drive, I experienced firsthand how the Zeekr X, a premium electric SUV, seamlessly combines performance and practicality
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a creature of habit when it comes to driving. I don’t like change when it comes to the vehicle that I drive. Since getting my driver’s license over a decade ago, I’ve had the opportunity to drive a hatchback (a Honda Jazz, my first car gifted to me upon attaining my license), a convertible (a trusty ’97 Ford Mustang that I relied on during my university days in Western New York) and a regular sedan (Audi A3, A4 and A6) that my family shared. With each change, I would always be nervous at the beginning but eventually get comfortable behind the wheel. But at least these cars I drove had one thing in common: they were all fuel-powered. So when I was offered the opportunity to test drive the Zeekr X, a compact luxury SUV designed for city drives, I was both nervous and excited to take it on.
Luckily for me, I was able to test drive the car over three days alongside my husband—who has always had a keen interest in electric vehicles.
As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, the Zeekr X has emerged as an impressive new player, combining luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. And it’s safe to say that we were able to experience these over the three days of use as we drove around Singapore with friends and family in tow.
In case you missed it: Experience the new frontier of electric motoring with Zeekr
Striking design
Above The all-new Zeekr X, a compact luxury SUV
The all-new Zeekr X, a compact luxury SUV
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The Zeekr X is an electric subcompact crossover SUV that aims to cater to modern urban lifestyles while making a bold statement on the road. The exterior of the Zeekr X is undeniably avant-garde, featuring frameless windows and sleek lines that challenge the usual SUV aesthetics. While some may find its design slightly unconventional, it certainly stands out in a sea of more traditional vehicles and was indeed a welcome change for us.
The rear boasts an impressive array of LED lights that create a visual signature, especially at night. You’ll be able to easily spot a Zeekr X on the road thanks to these lights.
My personal favourite design aspect of the car is its arc-shaped panoramic roof. With an area of 1.21 square meters, its composite sandwich design allows natural light in while still insulating passengers from noise and UV rays.
Comfort and ride quality
Above Back row of the Zeekr X
Back row of the Zeekr X
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Once on the road, the Zeekr X revealed its true strengths. The ride quality is exceptional, thanks to a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension system that effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. Even at higher speeds, the cabin remains beautifully hushed, creating a luxuriously comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers.
The vehicle’s chassis contributes to its overall stability and safety—a reassuring factor for those navigating Singapore’s busy streets.
High performance meets cutting-edge technology
Above Back of the Zeekr X
Back of the Zeekr X
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One of the most notable features of electric vehicles is their instant torque. If my husband could pick just one key point to highlight to potential buyers or car enthusiasts, it’s that the Zeekr X can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds. (Yes, he has an insatiable need for speed, unfortunately for me.) Clearly, this means a car like the Zeekr X can even outperform traditional sports cars in terms of off-the-line speed, providing a thrilling driving experience. It can also achieve up to 440km on a full charge—which is sufficient for most urban commutes, and still with plenty of range to spare.
While the acceleration initially caught me by surprise, I eventually grew accustomed to how easy and convenient it was to drive a vehicle that offers such a powerful performance. When I got behind the wheel, I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth drive and the “one-pedal driving” experience. This is where lifting off the accelerator engages regenerative braking to slow down the vehicle without having to step on the brake pedal. Such a feature can make city driving (with its busy streets and traffic congestions) more manageable and enjoyable.
The Zeekr X’s powerful performance is complemented by an agile handling characteristic that makes the car feel sprightly despite its size. The power delivery is smooth, allowing for confident overtaking maneuvers on busy highways—this was something my husband thoroughly enjoyed.
The car feels well-balanced and responsive, making every drive enjoyable. And we had other passengers who can attest to this. From my 65-year old father to my 13-month-old nephew, those who were lucky enough to hitch a ride in the Zeekr X with us enjoyed the experience and the overall aesthetics of the car.
Exceptional features
Other than performance, the Zeekr X is equipped with an array of advanced technology features that enhance both convenience and safety. The centerpiece is a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, which is intuitive and responsive, complemented by an 8.8-inch LCD instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. Though the digital cockpit looks and feels futuristic, its features are all user-friendly.
Above In-car refrigerator
In-car refrigerator
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Above Frameless mirrors
Above Panoramic roof
Frameless mirrors
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The Zeekr X also includes a voice-operated virtual assistant and an optional in-car refrigerator—features typically reserved for much higher-end models. We were most impressed by the latter as it is indeed a special feature that will be appreciated by many, especially young families.
When the vehicle is parked, several predefined convenience modes are available: in Theatre Mode, for example, the seats automatically adjust into the ideal position for enjoying music, while in Pet Mode, the climate control system maintains the cabin at an optimal temperature and the touchscreen displays a message to inform and reassure passers-by the pets locked inside are comfortable and safe.
A security feature known as Sentry Mode is also offered: when the Zeekr X is parked and locked, it will create a video of the area around the vehicle if suspicious activity is detected. Only the driver can access the recordings, which are stored in the car’s built-in hard drive or on a USB flash drive plugged into the USB interface.
When the time comes to recharge, the Zeekr X’s 150kW DC charging capability can replenish the battery from 10-80 per cent in less than 30 minutes. Using the powerful 11kW AC on-board charger, a full charge from 0-100 per cent takes approximately seven
hours, making home charging fast and convenient.
Practical luxury
Above Aerial view of the Zeekr X
Aerial view of the Zeekr X
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Despite its compact classification, the Zeekr X offers ample space for passengers and luggage alike. With a generous boot capacity of 1,182 liters, it’s well-suited for weekend getaways or daily errands around Singapore. The backseat provides sufficient legroom, ensuring comfort for all occupants.
In short, driving the Zeekr X was quite a remarkable experience for both my husband and me—especially since it was our first time test driving a premium electric SUV.
With its impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and spacious interior, the Zeekr X is poised to challenge established competitors in the luxury electric segment and we’re excited to see what the future holds—not just for Zeekr but the entire motoring industry in Singapore.
The Zeekr X is now available via the Zeekr Experience Centre, located at 9 Leng Kee Road. Test drives are available.
Credits
Images: Zeekr
Andrea Saadan is the Senior Digital Editor of Tatler Singapore. She oversees all digital content for the website and currently leads the Beauty and Lifestyle verticals. As a child, she had always enjoyed reading and writing but it was only after she joined her college newspaper, The Spectrum, in Buffalo, New York, that she considered a career in journalism. Her love for all things beauty started from the age of two—when she was caught playing with (and damaging) her mother’s YSL lipstick. On top of her day job, she is also an unpaid beauty consultant for friends and family. Besides make-up, her obsessions include the wizarding world of Harry Potter, podcasts, ice-cream, her walking pad and watching endless re-runs of The Office (US).
