Carscoops recently put several Zeekr models through their paces on snow and ice, offering a rare look at the brand’s luxury SUVs and entry-level options in challenging conditions. Zeekr, founded just five years ago under Geely, has quickly expanded beyond China into Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. The test included the upcoming Zeekr 8X and 9X SUVs, as well as the Zeekr X and high-performance 001 FR.
Zeekr 8X: Large Luxury SUV with Impressive Specs
Although Carscoops did not drive the Zeekr 8X during the session, the team had the opportunity to closely examine its interior and features. The 8X stands out for its size, measuring 5,100 mm (~200.8 inches) long, 1,998 mm (~78.7 inches) wide, and 1,780 mm (~70.1 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of 3,069 mm (~120.8 inches). This makes it significantly larger than a BMW X5.
The 8X is available with two or three rows of seats. In China, it is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with either two or three electric motors. The dual-motor version delivers 660 kW (885 hp), while the tri-motor version produces 1,030 kW (1,381 hp) and 1,410 Nm (1,039 lb-ft) of torque. Battery options include 55 kWh and 70 kWh packs.
Zeekr 9X: Flagship SUV with Advanced Features
The Zeekr 9X, launched in late 2025, is even larger, measuring 5,239 mm (~206.2 inches) long with a 3,169 mm (~124.7 inches) wheelbase. Since its launch, more than 62,000 units have been sold. The 9X is headed to both Australia and Europe.
It uses Zeekr’s 900-volt electrical architecture and is available with 55-kWh or 70-kWh batteries. Standard configuration includes a 2.0-liter turbo engine and either two or three electric motors. The tri-motor version delivers 1,030 kW (1,381 hp) and 1,410 Nm (1,039 lb-ft) of torque, though in Europe, power is capped at 660 kW (897 hp).
Inside, the 9X features a digital instrument cluster and a central infotainment screen, with an optional passenger display in China. The second row includes captain’s chairs with heating, ventilation, and massaging functions, and the seats can rotate 180 degrees.
Zeekr X: Entry-Level SUV Delivers on Ice
The Zeekr X is the brand’s entry-level SUV, and Carscoops spent significant time driving it on snow. In all-wheel-drive form, it uses a 66 kWh NMC battery and two electric motors producing 365 kW (489 hp) and 573 Nm (423 lb-ft) of torque. The Zeekr X can accelerate to 100 km/h (~62 mph) in 3.7 seconds.
During the ice driving session, the Zeekr X demonstrated strong dynamics, handling oversteer exercises and slaloms with ease. The test vehicles had their traction and stability control systems disabled for the event, allowing for more spirited driving.
Zeekr 001 FR and 7GT: High-Performance and Safety Milestones
The Zeekr 001 FR, the brand’s first model, is equipped with a 100 kWh CATL battery and four electric motors producing 1,248 hp. It can accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 2.02 seconds.
Additionally, the Zeekr 7GT and BMW iX3 were the first two vehicles to earn five-star safety ratings under Euro NCAP’s updated testing procedures in July.
Why this matters
Zeekr’s rapid rollout of advanced electric SUVs and crossovers demonstrates the growing competitiveness of Chinese EV brands in global markets. The brand’s ability to deliver high performance, luxury features, and strong safety credentials positions it as a serious contender against established European and American automakers.
With models like the 8X and 9X set to launch in Australia and Europe, Zeekr is expanding its reach and challenging traditional expectations for luxury and technology in the EV segment.
What this means for buyers
Buyers in Australia and Europe can expect to see Zeekr’s latest SUVs arrive in showrooms next year, offering a mix of luxury, performance, and advanced technology. Those considering a new electric SUV may want to keep an eye on Zeekr’s lineup, especially as local specifications and pricing are announced.
Comparing Zeekr’s offerings with established models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi will be important for buyers seeking value and innovation in the luxury EV market.
Key Specs
- Zeekr 8X Length: 5,100 mm (~200.8 inches)
- Zeekr 8X Width: 1,998 mm (~78.7 inches)
- Zeekr 8X Height: 1,780 mm (~70.1 inches)
- Zeekr 8X Wheelbase: 3,069 mm (~120.8 inches)
- Zeekr 8X Dual-Motor Output: 660 kW (885 hp)
- Zeekr 8X Tri-Motor Output: 1,030 kW (1,381 hp), 1,410 Nm (1,039 lb-ft)
- Zeekr 8X Battery Options: 55 kWh, 70 kWh
- Zeekr 9X Length: 5,239 mm (~206.2 inches)
- Zeekr 9X Wheelbase: 3,169 mm (~124.7 inches)
- Zeekr 9X Tri-Motor Output: 1,030 kW (1,381 hp), 1,410 Nm (1,039 lb-ft)
- Zeekr 9X European Power Cap: 660 kW (897 hp)
- Zeekr 9X Battery Options: 55 kWh, 70 kWh
- Zeekr 9X Electrical Architecture: 900-volt
- Zeekr X AWD Output: 365 kW (489 hp), 573 Nm (423 lb-ft)
- Zeekr X Battery: 66 kWh NMC
- Zeekr X 0-100 km/h: 3.7 seconds
- Zeekr 001 FR Battery: 100 kWh CATL
- Zeekr 001 FR Output: 1,248 hp
- Zeekr 001 FR 0-100 km/h: 2.02 seconds
Source
Images sourced from: carscoops.com
