Zeekr X Flagship AWD Review: Pocket Luxury

What we like:

Fully-loaded with options

What we dislike:

Doesn't drive as sweetly as the RWD variant

Some options are nice to have - but not necessary

We were really impressed when we first test drove the Zeekr X Standard RWD variant. At launch, it too included a couple of optional extras thrown in for free, like the superb Yamaha sound system and pixel ambient lighting. Although it felt like a strong offering, it still lacked some essential options for the luxury class, like an electrically adjustable front passenger seat or ventilated seats.

Well, if you want everything then the Flagship AWD variant is the one to get. Along with the aforementioned options, you also get an additional 154 bhp / 200 Nm front electric motor on top of the 268 bhp / 343 Nm rear motor. No, you can’t just add both figures to get the combined output of the car, but it’s no denying that the car feels superbly quick - although the Standard RWD already felt sufficiently rapid.

With the same 66 kWh battery, electric consumption is naturally higher with the Flagship AWD, but it wasn’t all that obvious during the test drive as it still delivered as good a range readout as its lesser variant. There is also faster 11 kW AC charging (as opposed to 7.2 kW), allowing quicker recharging even at more modest charging stations. On the Intelligent B-pillar which is standard for the Flagship AWD, you are able to see the charging status on a screen fitted to the B-pillar. I did not get to see this work during the test drive, and I doubt it is an important option, but certainly one that’s a talking point.

I reckon the biggest change to the Flagship AWD variant is the fitment of larger 19-inch wheels with a sportier profile. I praised the comfort of the Standard RWD variant, but in the Flagship AWD I didn’t quite feel the same cushyness. It definitely rides a tad firmer, though if you hadn’t tried the Standard FWD version then you might not notice. At least it does pay dividends in handling; the Flagship AWD rolls less in the corners and feels more planted.

Would we recommend the Flagship AWD? Our pick would actually be the Standard RWD with the optional extras thrown in. The single-motor car is plenty fast enough and arguably more entertaining to drive too with its rear-driven configuration. If you are picky about your options though then the Flagship AWD is a clear choice. Whichever Zeekr X you pick, you’ll be getting proper avantgarde luxury.

Photos by James Wong

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