The electric vehicle (EV) market in Australia is heating up, with new brands and models entering the scene at a rapid pace. Among the newcomers is Zeekr, a premium electric vehicle brand owned by Chinese automotive giant Geely, which also owns Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. The Zeekr X, a compact electric SUV, has made waves since its Australian debut in late 2024, particularly after a significant price cut in April 2025 that positioned its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant at just $49,900 before on-road costs. This price reduction, coupled with a robust feature set and competitive specifications, has sparked a question: Is the Zeekr X now Australia’s best EV deal under $60,000? In this article, we’ll dive into the Zeekr X’s pricing, performance, features, and how it stacks up against its rivals to determine if it truly deserves that title.
Zeekr X: Pricing and Variants
The Zeekr X is available in two variants in Australia: the single-motor RWD and the dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD). Following the price cuts announced in April 2025, the RWD model starts at $49,900, down $7,000 from its original $56,900 launch price, while the AWD variant is now priced at $62,900, a $2,000 reduction. These prices exclude on-road costs, which can add several thousand dollars depending on the state or territory. For buyers seeking a fully equipped RWD model, a $4,000 Convenience Package adds features like heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 13-speaker Yamaha sound system. This package is standard on the AWD variant, making it a compelling option for those wanting extra luxury without exceeding the $60,000 threshold when factoring in on-road costs in some regions.
The Zeekr X’s entry price of $49,900 makes it one of the most affordable premium EVs in Australia. It undercuts its platform sibling, the Volvo EX30, which starts at $59,990 before on-road costs, and is only slightly more expensive than the Smart #1 Pro+ at $54,900. Compared to the best-selling Tesla Model Y, which starts at approximately $58,000, the Zeekr X RWD offers a more luxurious interior and a longer claimed range at a lower price point. This aggressive pricing strategy positions the Zeekr X as a strong contender in the sub-$60,000 EV market.
Performance and Range
The Zeekr X RWD is powered by a single electric motor producing 200kW of power and 343Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100km/h sprint in 5.6 seconds. Its 66kWh nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) battery delivers a claimed range of 540km under Australia’s ADR 81/02 testing standards, though real-world figures are likely closer to the 446km quoted under the stricter European WLTP cycle. The AWD variant, with dual motors producing 315kW and 543Nm, slashes the 0-100km/h time to 3.8 seconds but reduces the range to 470km (ADR) or 425km (WLTP). Both models support fast charging at up to 150kW, achieving a 10-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes.
In real-world testing, the Zeekr X’s range has been somewhat less impressive, with reviewers noting an average energy consumption of 19.2kWh/100km, impacted by factors like air conditioning use in hot Australian conditions. Despite this, the RWD model’s claimed 540km range surpasses the Volvo EX30 Single Motor Extended Plus (480km) and Smart #1 Pro+ (420km), making it a standout for buyers prioritizing range. The AWD’s performance, meanwhile, rivals high-end sports cars, offering exceptional value for those seeking thrills without breaking the bank.
Features and Interior
The Zeekr X is packed with premium features that elevate it above many competitors in its price bracket. Standard equipment includes a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, a panoramic glass roof, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a wireless smartphone charger. The AWD variant adds a 24.3-inch augmented reality head-up display, 20-inch alloy wheels, and an “Intelligent B-Pillar Display” that shows charging status externally. The optional Convenience Package for the RWD model enhances comfort with heated and cooled seats and a premium Yamaha sound system.
The interior is a highlight, with high-quality materials and unique design elements like rose-gold accents, a microfibre headliner, and ambient lighting that illuminates a perforated cityscape design on the door trims. Reviewers have praised the Zeekr X for its spacious cabin, particularly compared to the Volvo EX30, thanks to a longer wheelbase that provides ample rear legroom and headroom. Cargo capacity is respectable at 362 liters with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,182 liters when folded, though the boot is smaller than some rivals like the Tesla Model Y. A small frunk under the hood is handy for storing charging cables.
Safety features are comprehensive, with a seven-airbag system, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree parking assist system. The Zeekr X earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating, scoring 91% for adult occupants and 90% for children, though it awaits ANCAP testing in Australia. However, some reviewers have criticized the overzealous driver assistance systems, particularly the driver attention monitor and lane-keeping assist, which can be intrusive and occasionally inaccurate.
Design and Driving Experience
The Zeekr X stands out with its sleek, modern design, featuring a sporty front fascia with embedded LED running lights and a unique rear quarter that divides opinions. Its compact dimensions (4,432mm long, 1,836mm wide, 1,566mm high) make it slightly smaller than the Tesla Model Y but comparable to the BYD Atto 3. The exterior is available in five colors, with three two-tone interior options, including the striking Midnight Blue and Polar White combination inspired by Chinese porcelain.
On the road, the Zeekr X impresses with its responsive steering and well-calibrated power delivery, particularly in the AWD variant, which offers exhilarating acceleration. The chassis provides decent handling with minimal body roll, though the suspension can feel firm over bumps, transmitting some noise and harshness, especially on Australia’s rougher roads. The single-setting regenerative braking is smooth but doesn’t offer true one-pedal driving, which may disappoint some EV enthusiasts. Overall, the Zeekr X balances performance and comfort well for a compact SUV, though it falls short of the refinement of its Volvo EX30 sibling in certain conditions.
Competition and Value Proposition
The sub-$60,000 EV market in Australia is fiercely competitive, with key rivals including the Tesla Model Y, BYD Atto 3, Volvo EX30, Smart #1, and Xpeng G6. The Tesla Model Y, starting at $58,000, offers a larger cabin and a 455km WLTP range but lacks the Zeekr X’s premium interior touches and longer claimed range. The BYD Atto 3, priced from around $48,000, is slightly cheaper but doesn’t match the Zeekr X’s luxury or performance. The Volvo EX30, starting at $59,990, shares the same platform but is pricier and offers less range, while the Smart #1 Pro+ at $54,900 has a shorter 420km range. The Xpeng G6, starting at $59,800, is a strong contender but lacks the Zeekr X’s premium branding and feature set.
The Zeekr X’s value proposition is bolstered by a five-year unlimited-kilometer warranty, an eight-year/160,000km battery warranty, and five years of roadside assistance and connected services. Early adopters who registered interest before October 31, 2024, also received a 12-month unlimited charging subscription and a free 7kW home charger, sweetening the deal. For existing owners affected by the price cut, Zeekr offers five years of free servicing for RWD models and three years for AWD models, demonstrating customer care.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its strengths, the Zeekr X faces challenges. Its sales have lagged behind the Volvo EX30, with only 179 units sold in the first three months of 2025 compared to 385 for the EX30. This may reflect Zeekr’s relative lack of brand recognition in Australia, where established names like Tesla and BYD dominate. The intrusive safety systems, while advanced, have drawn criticism for being overly sensitive, which could deter buyers who prioritize a seamless driving experience. Additionally, the Zeekr X’s real-world range may not match its optimistic ADR figures, particularly in demanding conditions.
The upcoming Zeekr 7X, a mid-sized SUV set to launch in late 2025, may also shift focus from the X, as it’s expected to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y. Priced between $65,000 and $85,000, the 7X could overshadow the X for buyers seeking a larger vehicle, potentially limiting the X’s long-term appeal.
Final Verdict
The Zeekr X RWD, now priced at $49,900 before on-road costs, is a compelling option in Australia’s sub-$60,000 EV market. Its combination of premium features, a luxurious interior, strong performance, and a competitive range makes it a standout against rivals like the Tesla Model Y, BYD Atto 3, and Volvo EX30. The price cut enhances its value, and incentives like free charging and servicing add to its appeal. However, challenges like intrusive safety tech, unproven real-world range, and limited brand recognition may temper its dominance.
Is the Zeekr X Australia’s best EV deal under $60,000? It’s certainly among the top contenders, offering a unique blend of luxury, technology, and affordability. For buyers seeking a premium compact SUV with strong value, the Zeekr X is hard to beat, but those prioritizing brand familiarity or a larger cabin may look elsewhere. As Zeekr continues to establish itself in Australia, the X sets a high bar for what a sub-$60,000 EV can achieve.