Zeekr X vs. The Premium Titans: Is This the Chinese EV That Upsets Volvo—and Europe?

The electric SUV market in Europe is more dynamic than ever, with Chinese automakers unleashing innovative, design-forward models that challenge even iconic brands. Enter the Zeekr X, a compact, premium-orientated electric crossover from Geely, sharing its bones with the Volvo EX30 but aspiring for BMW-level cabin polish, comfort, and tech swagger. Having spent time behind the wheel, it’s clear the Zeekr X is not just another fast-following Chinese EV—it’s a genuine rival for the best in its class and may just upend your loyalty to established European names.

The Zeekr X in Brief: What Makes It Stand Out

• Striking, aggressive styling—sharp lights, coupe-like lines, subtle nods to Lynk & Co and Volvo but with more attitude.

• Built on the scalable SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform, which also underpins the Volvo EX30, Smart #1, and Lynk & Co 02.

• World-class safety credentials: ranked by Euro NCAP as among the safest EVs, even ahead of pricier rivals like Porsche Macan.

• Surprisingly premium interior—soft vegan leather, customizable lighting, intelligent switchgear, and near-BMW design aspirations.

• Choice of two powertrains: 268 hp (RWD), 446 km WLTP range (69 kWh), or 422 hp AWD, 425 km range.

• Swift performance: 0–100 km/h in 5.6 seconds (RWD) and a blistering 3.8 seconds (AWD).

• Loaded with high-end features: panoramic sunroof, 13-speaker Yamaha audio, 14.6” central touchscreen, 24.3” AR HUD, 8.8” digital cluster.

• Spacious rear legroom thanks to a long wheelbase, with clever in-cabin storage and a multi-function armrest.

• Boot volume is limited for the segment (362 liters), with a tiny underhood frunk for charging cables.

• Pricing (in Greece, including EV incentive): €34,990 (RWD Base), €39,990 (RWD Long Range), €44,990 (AWD Privilege).

Zeekr X vs. Its Platform Relatives and Rivals

*Prices vary by market/incentives

The Driving Experience: Euro-Chinese Harmony

• Ride comfort enhanced by a softer suspension, but SEA platform delivers stiffness and directness akin to larger, more expensive EVs.

• Cabin is well-insulated, balancing the zesty performance with quietness on long cruises.

• Steering feel is precise but not overly sporty—Comfort, Standard, and Sport modes offer subtle distinction, but all err toward comfort.

• ADAS suite (adaptive cruise, lane keep, collision warning) mostly seamless; a few alerts may feel “over-cautious” on faded lane roads.

• RWD variant offers zest and playful agility—sufficient for daily use, while AWD is for true acceleration enthusiasts.

Cabin and Tech: Premium Reinvented

• Frameless doors, ASMR-grade switchgear, copper-finished toggles—Zeekr X pushes beyond mainstream Chinese interiors.

• 14.6” central touchscreen plus 8.8” digital cluster and 24.3” AR HUD rival BMW, Tesla, and Mercedes for wow factor.

• Rear-seat comfort outshines Volvo EX30, thanks to a longer wheelbase and flatter floor.

• Minor practicality drawback: the trunk is modest, and the frunk is really only for cables.

• Panasonic batteries, Yamaha audio, and safety hardware reinforce the “premium” ambition.

Old Brand, New World

Dimitris always trusted Volvo for safety and luxury—until his first drive in the Zeekr X. The feeling of quality and digital innovation was shocking: plush seats, crisp audio, head-up display, and brilliant acceleration. Meanwhile, his daughter enjoyed the AR HUD’s guiding arrows, and his wife commented on the cabin’s quietness. The experience convinced him (and his family) that new brands—if done right—can erase decades-old brand prejudice and even raise expectations.

Essential Reminders & Differences

• Zeekr X is cut-price compared to BMW/Tesla/Volvo, yet delivers equal or better tech, comfort, and real-world driving joy.

• Euro-centric safety, design, and R&D (Sweden, Netherlands) set it apart from the “budget” narrative.

• Real-world range is closer to 400 km for RWD, a bit lower for AWD; fast DC charging closes the gap regionally.

• Ambient lighting, vegan leather, and digital customizability (incl. physical AC toggles) create a rich, tactile cabin feel.

Zeekr X breaks the stereotype of the “affordable Chinese EV” by fusing Euro-level comfort, innovation, and dynamic design—at a price that undercuts Volvo, BMW, and Tesla. Its swift, silent ride, standout tech, and upmarket cabin challenge preconceptions, while long-range and safety credentials seal its upstart credentials. For drivers ready to look past logos, Zeekr X delivers a convincing taste of the electric future—one where heritage is optional, but excitement and value are standard.