Xpeng's new flagship SUV, the GX, has been put through a thorough long-term test by Chinese automotive outlet Autohome, revealing a vehicle that excels in space and practicality but comes with a few compromises. The tested model was the top-spec GX EREV (range-extender), which combines a 1.5T range extender with dual electric motors and a 63.3kWh LFP battery from CALB, offering a claimed CLTC electric-only range of 430km (about 366 km WLTP est.) (approximately 267 miles).
Design and Interior
The GX features a wide front end, a full-width daytime running light, and split headlamps, typical of large SUVs today. The design is conservative, but Autohome notes it lacks some of the brand identity seen in earlier Xpeng models. The test car was finished in Fjord Grey, a color that normally costs 6,000 yuan (about $845) but was free during the test period. Other options include Danxia Red, Cloud Gold matte, and a two-tone Kunlun finish, priced at 6,000, 8,000, and 15,000 yuan (about $845, $1,127, and $2,113) respectively.
Inside, the GX offers a clean, layered dashboard with a 17.3-inch floating touchscreen that Autohome found responsive and logical. The cabin uses soft-touch materials throughout, with a microfiber headliner. However, the front seats are firm, and the passenger seat with zero-gravity function is even harder, which could be tiring on long journeys. The second-row seats feature power-adjustable windows with dimming function and hidden air vents, but the latter cannot be manually adjusted, and a voice command to change airflow direction failed during the test. The third row is cramped for adults, with limited legroom, though it does offer electric recline, heating, and a 60W charging port.
Performance and Driving
The GX EREV is powered by dual electric motors with a combined output of 370kW (about 496 hp), enabling a claimed 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of 4.98 seconds. Autohome found the powertrain responsive in Comfort and Sport modes, with linear delivery in Eco. However, with regenerative braking set high, small pedal movements caused noticeable deceleration, and in Sport mode there was a slight delay in response when pressing the accelerator. At low battery (around 5%), power remained adequate for highway cruising at 110-120km/h (68-75mph).
The GX features steer-by-wire, which reduces steering wheel movement and, combined with rear-wheel steering, makes city maneuvers easy. However, the steering lacks road feel, and the wheel has a synthetic, electronic sensation. The adaptive air suspension with CDC dampers provides a comfortable ride, filtering out most bumps, though in Comfort mode the body can float over undulating roads. Switching to Sport mode reduces body movement. Noise levels are generally low, but at speeds above 100-110km/h (62-68mph) wind noise becomes noticeable, and when the range extender kicks in at low battery, the engine sound is more prominent and less refined.
For light off-road use, the GX offers modes for wet, snow, mud, and wading, with a maximum wading depth of 700mm (27.6 inches) and a ground clearance of about 400mm (15.7 inches) at the highest setting. Autohome advises that the GX is best suited for city and highway driving, not serious off-roading.
Practicality and Verdict
The GX's cargo space is a highlight: with all three rows up, it can hold nine 20-inch suitcases in the underfloor area, and with the third row folded, it accommodates 24. The cabin offers plenty of storage, including a two-zone cool box that can reach -6°C (21°F) and a third-row underfloor compartment. The second-row seats have easy-access buttons on the B-pillars for the electric doors, and the 8-inch rear control screen manages seats, climate, fridge, and entertainment.
Autohome's overall impression is that the GX EREV is a well-rounded large SUV with strong space and comfort, but potential buyers should test the firm seats and consider the trade-offs of the steer-by-wire system and the limited third-row space. The GX is positioned as a flagship, and its pricing in China starts at around 189,800 yuan (about $26,700) for the base version, though the tested top-spec model with options would cost more. These are Chinese guide prices before taxes and incentives.
