Seven day test: 2025 Xpeng G6 Long Range - "I think I want one"

The joy surrounding the XPeng G6 is palpable, particularly following suggestions from EV Central’s Bruce Newton. There’s a robust chance that this mannequin is poised to be a standout among the many newest Chinese language electrical SUVs and a severe contender in opposition to the Tesla Mannequin Y.

On paper, the G6 actually appears spectacular. Priced at $59,800, it competes nicely with each the Tesla and the newly launched BYD Sealion 7. Its specs point out a sturdy listing of options, a robust motor, and an interesting driving vary.

Nonetheless, the true take a look at will come throughout per week of real-world utilization with my household.

Day 1: What’s that?

My spouse is kind of accustomed to seeing a wide range of distinctive vehicles parked at our dwelling, particularly as new Chinese language fashions have more and more entered the Australian market. But, the placing white SUV with the ‘X’ emblem prompts her to ask, “What’s that?”

That is the XPeng G6, which launched in China almost a decade in the past and made its debut in Australia late final yr. Whereas a extra reasonably priced variant with a smaller battery is offered, now we have the Lengthy Vary model that includes an 87.5kWh battery that guarantees a driving vary of 570km.

Earlier than we get to its efficiency, my spouse focuses on what issues extra for us at this stage: the practicality of the car. We have to know if our pram can match within the boot, if the rear seat has straightforward ISOFIX factors, and if our new child’s automotive seat can match comfortably between the again seat and the entrance passenger seat, which appears outsized.

The quick solutions to her questions are affirmative. The G6 not solely accommodates our child seat but additionally presents a spacious backseat, able to becoming a number of youngsters if wanted.

After battling outsized child seats in numerous automobiles, my spouse is already contemplating the G6 a prime contender.

Day 2: How do the Chinese language manufacturers do that?

The options within the XPeng G6 are spectacular. If this SUV bore a European badge, its pricing would seemingly escalate into the six-figure vary. But, at underneath $60,000, there isn’t a single choice that must be chosen.

Anticipated options embody LED lighting, however the 20-inch alloy wheels are outfitted with premium Michelin tires. Computerized door handles, a powered boot, and a glass roof improve its attraction even additional. Moreover, downloading the XPeng app permits drivers to maneuver the G6 out of tight parking spots utilizing their cell system.

Inside, we discover luxurious leather-like seats, a rare 18-speaker audio system, an enormous 15-inch central show, a beneficiant 10.2-inch digital dashboard, and complete security options which have earned a five-star ANCAP score.

Day 3: Comfy, however not dynamic

Are we asking an excessive amount of of those hefty electrical SUVs? Whereas we count on them to hold heavy batteries for vary, we additionally need them to deal with nicely on twisting roads.

As I took the XPeng G6 out on a solo drive to place its dealing with to the take a look at, I shortly realized that this SUV shouldn’t be a sports activities automotive. Weighing over two tonnes, the G6 prioritizes consolation. The steering feels a bit unfastened, even in sport mode, and the suspension is delicate, making for a snug experience slightly than a dynamic one. Its claimed acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds doesn’t present adrenaline-pumping thrills.

What it does provide is consolation — a serene cabin ambiance that’s seemingly extra pertinent for our household life than a necessity for pace.

Day 4: The highway journey

My spouse proposed an extended highway journey of at the least 100km to correctly consider the G6, a request I think was motivated by an opulent lunch vacation spot. Nonetheless, a 115km spherical journey presents the right alternative for us to expertise this car’s capabilities.

I have to admit, the G6 is at the moment my favourite among the many new electrical SUVs available on the market. It’s spacious, comfy, quiet, and exhibits spectacular vary. The Lengthy Vary model options the most important battery, making certain a possible driving vary, and I achieved higher effectivity than XPeng’s claimed determine of 17.5kWh/100km, utilizing solely about 14kWh throughout my drive.

The G6 helps 280kW DC quick charging, permitting for a fast cost from 10 to 80 % in simply 20 minutes, although I didn’t have to cost it throughout this journey.

Day 5: Model over performance?

One may surprise if XPeng’s design staff took cues from Tesla, as each automobiles showcase comparable delicate curves and shapes. Nonetheless, my household leans in direction of the XPeng, which advantages from distinctive exterior options, together with placing strip lighting, modern black mild housings, and refined rear spoilers.

Inside-wise, I feel the G6 surpasses the Mannequin Y, providing a extra driver-focused expertise with its central show. But, some design components pose challenges. The central display screen, whereas spectacular, locations air-con controls on the backside, which might be obscured when utilizing Apple CarPlay. Whereas there are steering wheel buttons to regulate the temperature, they double as cruise management distance settings, which could confuse new drivers.

A easy resolution could be to reintroduce bodily buttons.

Day 6: Practicality is a key profit

Tonight, we’re heading to a pal’s home for dinner, and preparations have turn into fairly in depth because the arrival of our child. As soon as, we might merely collect a bottle of wine; now, we’re packing like we’re getting ready for an expedition with ample child gear.

Many SUVs have fallen quick in accommodating our wants, however the XPeng G6 has risen to the problem. With dimensions of 4753mm in size, 1920mm in width, and 1650mm in peak, it technically qualifies as a mid-size SUV, however its electrical design presents considerably extra inside house.

The boot alone boasts 571 liters, increasing to 1374 liters with the seats folded down. We managed to suit every little thing, and if needed, the again seats provide beneficiant extra house.

It seems that practicality may nicely be essentially the most vital benefit of proudly owning an XPeng.

Day 7: “I feel I would like one”

By the tip of the week, it’s clear the XPeng G6 has impressed my spouse, as she expressed her curiosity a number of instances—a sentiment she not often shares relating to any car, particularly Tesla.

Specs for the 2025 XPeng G6 Lengthy Vary: