2026 Zeekr 7X Performance AWD Review: The Chinese EV That Should Worry Tesla

The 2026 Zeekr 7X Performance AWD has quickly become one of the most talked-about electric SUVs in Australia. With massive power, ultra-fast 800V charging, a premium interior and aggressive pricing, it positions itself as a serious alternative to the Tesla Model Y and Polestar 4. After extended real-world driving, it’s clear why demand is rising fast.

Price & Positioning in Australia

Zeekr is a premium EV brand under the Geely Group, sharing engineering DNA with Volvo, Polestar, Lotus and Smart. The Zeekr 7X is the brand’s third model in Australia and sits squarely in the highly competitive mid-size premium electric SUV segment.

Australian pricing (before on-road costs):

• 7X RWD – $57,900

• 7X Long Range RWD – $63,900

• 7X Performance AWD – $72,900

For the performance on offer, the AWD flagship undercuts many European rivals while matching — and often exceeding — their tech.

Powertrain, Battery & Charging

The headline numbers explain much of the hype:

• Dual-motor AWD

• 475kW / 710Nm

• 0–100km/h: 3.8 seconds

• 100kWh NMC battery

• WLTP range: 543km

Built on Geely’s SEA platform, the Zeekr 7X uses an 800V electrical architecture, enabling charging speeds that currently rank among the fastest in Australia.

On a 350kW DC charger, the 7X was observed pulling up to 296kW, even at 40% state of charge — an exceptional real-world result. For family EV owners, this dramatically reduces long-distance charging downtime.

Charging specs:

• AC charging: 22kW

• DC fast charging: up to 420kW

Interior, Technology & Equipment

Zeekr strikes a careful balance between minimalism and luxury. The cabin avoids Tesla-style austerity while remaining intuitive and user-friendly.

Key highlights include:

• 21-inch forged alloy wheels

• Height-adjustable air suspension

• Akebono performance brakes

• 21-speaker premium audio system (including headrest speakers)

• Nappa leather upholstery

• Tri-zone climate control

• 13-inch digital driver display

• 16.9-inch central touchscreen

• Massive 36-inch head-up display

• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

• Dual 50W wireless phone chargers

Unlike the Model Y, the panoramic glass roof includes a powered sunshade, making it far more suitable for hot climates.

Safety:
Five-star ANCAP rating, seven airbags and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems — mostly well-calibrated and not overly intrusive.

Driving Experience

Despite its size and 2,460kg kerb weight, the Zeekr 7X is surprisingly approachable behind the wheel. Acceleration is brutally quick but intentionally softened off the line, making it easier to manage in daily driving.

This isn’t a track-focused SUV — and it doesn’t pretend to be. Instead, it delivers:

• Strong high-speed composure

• Excellent ride comfort in default suspension settings

• Confident handling for its size

• Low noise levels, aside from some tyre roar

Energy consumption ranged from 22kWh/100km during spirited driving to the high teens when cruising, making the official 19.9kWh/100km claim realistic.

Expect 400–500km of real-world range between charges.

Practicality & Family Use

Where the Zeekr 7X really shines is in everyday usability:

• Spacious rear seating with power recline

• Excellent legroom and headroom

• Large boot plus front trunk (frunk)

• Ample storage throughout the cabin

The only notable drawback? No spare tyre, which may concern some buyers.

One controversial feature is the power-operated doors. While novel, they proved frustrating in daily use and are arguably the vehicle’s weakest ergonomic decision.

Verdict: Should Tesla Buyers Be Worried?

Yes — absolutely.

The 2026 Zeekr 7X Performance AWD is one of the most convincing electric SUVs to come out of China to date. It combines performance, comfort, ultra-fast charging and premium features at a price that directly threatens established players.

Alongside the XPeng G6, it represents a new benchmark for Chinese EVs in global markets.

Pros

• Outstanding performance for the price

• Class-leading charging speeds

• High-quality interior

• Excellent comfort and space

Cons

• Power doors are frustrating

• No spare tyre

• Heavy when driven hard

Final Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)

2026 Zeekr 7X Performance AWD – Specifications

• Price: $72,900 + on-road costs

• Body style: Mid-size electric SUV

• Seats / Doors: 5 / 5

• Drivetrain: Dual-motor AWD

• Power / Torque: 475kW / 710Nm

• Battery: 100kWh NMC

• Range (WLTP): 543km

• Consumption: 19.9kWh/100km

• AC charging: 22kW

• DC charging: up to 420kW

• 0–100km/h: 3.8 seconds

• Battery warranty: 8 years / 160,000km