As cliché because it sounds, it appears that evidently barely per week goes by and not using a new Chinese language automobile model both saying its launch within the U.Okay. or introducing a number of fashions for customers. These manufacturers usually include formidable plans for dealership networks throughout the nation and guarantees of superior expertise which may remind considered one of one thing hooked up to Tony Stark.
Leapmotor has made its debut within the U.Okay. and Europe, bringing the T03 metropolis automobile and the C10 SUV, with extra fashions anticipated quickly. Up to now, Chinese language automobiles weren’t extremely regarded, however that is altering quickly. Corporations like BYD and MG have efficiently captured market share from established manufacturers. In contrast to these firms, nonetheless, Leapmotor appears to have emerged from the shadows. It has managed to create a compelling budget-friendly automobile with the T03, however within the aggressive electrical SUV market, can it stand as much as established gamers like Volkswagen?
Leapmotor is comparatively new, having been round for a few decade. It began as a tech firm earlier than shifting to automotive manufacturing. Its relevance grew in 2023 when Stellantis acquired a 21% stake in Leapmotor’s operations in China. In 2024, Stellantis and Leapmotor launched Leapmotor Worldwide, designed to broaden Leapmotor’s attain globally. Now in early 2025, Leapmotor automobiles can be found all through Europe and are launching within the U.Okay. The standout side of this partnership is that Leapmotor’s automobiles can be obtainable by means of Stellantis dealerships somewhat than a makeshift seller community, and in response to Leapmotor representatives, elements availability is not going to be a priority, permitting prospects to purchase with assurance.
Presently, the C10 is the biggest car in Leapmotor’s lineup. This D Phase SUV is priced at £36,500 ($46,000), a value usually related to smaller C phase fashions. This pricing is stunning given the intensive checklist of options it presents, together with a voice assistant, CarPlay, Android Auto, a 14.6-inch touchscreen, heated seats, complete superior driver-assistance methods (ADAS), a decent-sized trunk, and an inside design that might elevate it to Volvo requirements. Whereas the outside might not be thrilling, it does look enticing in inexperienced. There are not any extra choices, only a selection of colour—pay your cash, and also you get a well-equipped car.
The C10 is powered by a 70 kWh battery, which feeds a 218-horsepower, 236 lb-ft rear-mounted motor, permitting the SUV to speed up from 0-62 mph in 7.5 seconds and attain a high pace of 106 mph. Leapmotor claims the car has a spread of 263 miles (or 423 kilometers, WLTP mixed), translating to an effectivity of roughly 3.8 miles per kWh, though WLTP figures will be overly optimistic. Moreover, the C10’s DC quick charging is proscribed to 84kW, permitting for a 30-80% state of cost in roughly half-hour, in response to the producer.
The ample options and aggressive pricing will probably entice customers, however the driving expertise tells a unique story. Whereas steering is ample for route adjustments, there may be minimal suggestions from the entrance wheels. Pushing the C10 more durable reveals a propensity to lean like an SUV from an outdated cop present and results in important understeer when pushed an excessive amount of. It’s not a sports activities car, but even in its class, there are rivals that carry out higher. The trip high quality isn’t fitted to the U.Okay.’s roads; it might really feel positive initially, however as soon as confronted with uneven surfaces, the discomfort turns into evident.
The C10’s suite of ADAS is intensive however usually intrusive. Though it’s normal for energetic security methods to be adjustable, the Lane Preserve Help function proved significantly cussed, remaining energetic even after being deactivated and aggressively steering the car with out consent.
There are numerous drive modes that regulate power regeneration and energy supply, however the regenerative braking can really feel abrupt, nearly jerky, when the system kicks in. Altering modes whereas driving requires a number of faucets on the touchscreen, which distracts from street focus, and the shortage of haptic suggestions makes it troublesome to know when a command has been registered. Fundamental changes like wing mirror positioning, local weather management, and fog mild activation got here down to the touch instructions on the display screen.
On the optimistic facet, the C10 feels pretty fast off the mark, offering a satisfying acceleration at site visitors lights. Though Leapmotor’s acknowledged effectivity fell in need of expectations on a chilly day, the car managed a good 3.9 miles per kWh in blended driving. Regardless of the underwhelming driving expertise, it didn’t devour extreme power.
Sadly, the driving deficiencies weren’t the one letdowns. Voice command performance was inconsistent, with the activation phrase prompting an surprising and loud “I am coming!” response—a curious selection whereas cruising. This awkwardness hints at potential translation points or maybe a misguided humorousness from the builders.
When the voice command system lastly engaged, it struggled with pure language. Phrases like “Change to sport mode” had been ignored, whereas extra elaborated instructions had been understood. This form of clumsiness feels outdated and stunning in a contemporary car. The cabin heating was additionally elusive; regardless of setting the local weather management to a heat temperature, chilly air continued to move out.
Regardless of these shortcomings, there are just a few intelligent options, resembling a programmable change on the roof to regulate varied car capabilities and a ‘nap’ setting that performs soothing sounds. Customers can create routines that activate beneath sure circumstances, including a layer of comfort, and the high-definition touchscreen permits for customized backgrounds.
Whereas Leapmotor seeks to place itself as a wonderful worth model with ample house, tech, and vary, the driving expertise leaves a lot to be desired. Though the worth might catch the attention of some consumers, comparable investments in additional established manufacturers would probably yield a far superior car.
Even with a robust help community and half availability, referring to the C10 as merely common can be a flattering evaluation. Given time, Leapmotor might refine its choices, however because it stands, the C10 struggles to impress, leaving dominant manufacturers like VW feeling protected for now.
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