Zeekr Gives its Compact X SUV a Stealthy Power Boost to 250 kW

Zeekr is turning up the heat on its compact X SUV for 2026, giving the stylish all-electric crossover a welcome shot of adrenaline. Ahead of its official launch in China on November 5, the company has revealed a refreshed model that packs a more potent 250 kW rear motor and a slick new matte “Seattle Green” paint job. While the design remains familiar, these under-the-skin updates show Zeekr is serious about keeping its edge in a brutally competitive market.

Metric Value Unit Notes
Peak power 250 kW New rear motor; dual-motor AWD available
Range (CLTC) 560+ km Current range; expected to improve with new battery
Battery technology Golden Brick Battery Zeekr’s new LFP battery, details TBC
Dimensions (L/W/H) 4,450 / 1,836 / 1,572 mm Unchanged for 2026 model year
Wheelbase 2,750 mm Generous for a compact SUV
Starting price (current model) ¥149,000 CNY Approx. $20,900 USD; 2026 pricing unconfirmed

A Familiar Look with More Punch

On the outside, the 2026 Zeekr X doesn’t stray from its successful formula. It keeps its sharp, modern dimensions at 4,450 mm long, 1,836 mm wide, and 1,572 mm tall. Design cues like the split LED headlights, hidden door handles, and frameless doors still give it a clean, tech-forward vibe that stands out. The new two-tone style, pairing the matte green finish with a black roof, adds a touch of aggression that hints at the power lurking underneath.

The real story is the performance bump. The rear motor now produces 250 kW (about 335 hp), a significant jump from the previous 200 kW. This extra muscle should make the rear-wheel-drive version feel noticeably quicker off the line and more confident during highway overtakes. A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration will also be available for those who want maximum grip and acceleration. Both versions are capped at a top speed of 190 km/h.

Smarter Battery and a High-Tech Cabin

The 2026 model is also expected to be the first Zeekr X to feature Zeekr’s new “Golden Brick Battery.” This is an LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery that promises faster charging speeds and improved energy density, which should translate to more range than the current model’s 560 km (CLTC). By developing its own battery tech, Zeekr joins a growing trend among Chinese EV makers to control their own supply chains and innovate faster.

While we haven’t seen official interior photos, the cabin is expected to get material and trim updates. The layout will likely center around the car’s clever 14.6-inch floating touchscreen, which can slide over to the passenger side. It’s a trick feature that’s genuinely useful, letting your co-pilot handle navigation or entertainment without distracting you. The whole system is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, ensuring the infotainment is snappy and responsive, a must-have for today’s tech-savvy buyers.

Value in the Compact EV Arena

With prices for the current model starting at just 149,000 yuan (around $20,900 USD), the Zeekr X offers a compelling mix of style, tech, and performance. This aggressive pricing strategy is a hallmark of the Chinese EV market and puts direct pressure on rivals like the Smart #3. Although sales have been modest, with just over 4,600 units sold this year, this 2026 update shows Zeekr isn’t giving up on the compact segment. By boosting power and improving its battery tech, the new Zeekr X is better equipped than ever to fight for its share of the pie.