Zeekr, a prominent Chinese automotive brand, continues to assert its presence in the market with the launch of the new 8X SUV, boasting impressive specifications. While some manufacturers focus on smaller city cars, Zeekr aims to dominate the luxury SUV segment with a compelling combination of size and performance. Geely Automobile Group's CEO, Gan Jiayue, announced that the 8X, along with its larger sibling, the Zeekr 9X, is set to make its debut in international markets by the third quarter of 2026.
Zeekr is taking an aggressive approach to pricing. The 8X starts at a limited-time introductory price of RMB 329,800 (approximately $45,800). For those seeking the top-tier version, the price increases to RMB 473,800, or around $65,800. It's noteworthy how such promotions seem to coincide with the launch, yet a discount of $6,500 from the pre-sale price is certainly appealing. This pricing strategy positions the Zeekr 8X competitively among affluent Chinese consumers looking for luxury without the associated fuel consumption stigma.
The 8X is built on an advanced 900V platform known as Haohan-S, which enables it to manage substantial power output. The high-performance Yao Ying version is essentially a high-speed vehicle disguised as a family SUV, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and multiple electric motors, generating an astonishing 1030 kW, roughly equivalent to 1,380 horsepower. In contrast to most family SUVs that accelerate to highway speeds in ten seconds, the Zeekr 8X can reach 62 mph in just 2.96 seconds. Even the slower dual-motor variants still achieve 660 kW, hitting 62 mph in 3.7 seconds.
In terms of dimensions, the Zeekr 8X commands attention, measuring 200.8 inches in length, 78.7 inches in width, and 70.1 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 120.8 inches, providing ample space for passengers. Its design is modern and bold, featuring a high, upright front grille and a split headlight configuration. A distinctive roof bump houses the LiDAR system, which enhances safe driving and automated parking capabilities.
This SUV excels in battery technology, featuring a 70 kWh battery pack capable of '6C' fast charging. When paired with a suitable charger, it can charge from 20% to 80% in approximately nine minutes. On a full charge plus a full tank of gas, the 8X can travel up to 880 miles. If operating solely on electric power, the range extends to 255 miles.
The interior resembles a luxurious lounge more than a conventional car cabin, with an abundance of screens, including a central display and additional screens for rear passengers. Buyers opting for the higher trims will enjoy ‘aviation-style’ rear seats that recline and feature extendable leg supports, offering supreme comfort for those preferring to be chauffeured. For those needing storage space, the foldable seats create an impressive 2200 liters of cargo capacity.
The Zeekr 8X is powered by two Nvidia Drive Thor-U processors, providing the vehicle with 1400 TOPS of computing power, essential for efficient highway navigation and automatic parking functionalities. To ensure a comfortable journey, an adaptive air suspension system adjusts the vehicle's height and ride firmness based on road conditions, constantly monitoring to minimize the impact of bumps and potholes.
Zeekr has strategically positioned the 8X just below its flagship model, the Zeekr 9X, which has already gained traction in the market, with sales soaring from under 700 units in late 2025 to over 10,000 by March 2026. The company anticipates similar success for the 8X as it appeals to a global audience. However, it's important to note that the pricing may be less attractive upon its arrival in Europe, though it will remain competitive.
