In real-world driving, the Zeekr 007 lives up to its performance specifications. Whether in single-motor rear-wheel-drive or dual-motor all-wheel-drive guise, throttle response is exceptionally linear and intuitive. The AWD Performance variant, with an official 0–100 km/h time of just 3.5 seconds, delivers a visceral surge of acceleration that leaves first-time occupants genuinely impressed. Its power reserves feel bottomless, with strong mid-to-late-stage thrust remaining readily available. By comparison, the Tesla Model 3 Performance—also all-wheel drive—adopts a more aggressive and immediate delivery: initial pedal response is extremely sensitive, even jarring at times, creating a perpetually intense, race-ready feel. The Zeekr 007, while equally quick, offers a more controlled and composed driving experience, exuding quiet confidence rather than raw aggression.

Range anxiety is effectively eliminated by the Zeekr 007’s 75.6 kWh or 100 kWh Qilin battery packs, which deliver up to 870 km (CLTC) of range—significantly surpassing the Model 3 Performance’s 623 km (CLTC).

Around town, the Zeekr 007 demonstrates how far Chinese automakers have come in chassis tuning. Its front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension adeptly filters out minor road imperfections, transmitting only muted thuds into the cabin rather than harsh impacts. Larger bumps or speed humps are handled with crisp composure, and body motions remain tightly controlled without excessive rebound. At highway speeds, the car maintains exceptional stability, aided by its sleek aerodynamics and excellent sealing. Wind noise suppression is outstanding, placing the Zeekr 007’s NVH performance clearly ahead of the older Model 3 and on par with the latest Model 3 refresh—which now includes acoustic laminated glass and other refinements.

On twisty roads, the Zeekr 007 continues to impress. Steering is precise with minimal dead zone, and turn-in is immediate. Thanks to its low center of gravity and well-damped underpinnings, body roll is expertly managed, and the car follows driver inputs with remarkable fidelity—instilling genuine confidence behind the wheel. Unlike traditional sports sedans that prioritize stiffness over comfort, the Zeekr 007 strikes a rare balance: it delivers high levels of dynamic capability wrapped in everyday refinement. The Model 3, by contrast, offers heavier, more direct steering with richer road feedback and a firmer suspension setup that communicates surface texture more vividly. In essence, the Model 3 feels like a “go-kart for grown-ups”—pure and unfiltered—while the Zeekr 007 blends agility with sophistication.

“The Zeekr 007 shatters the outdated stereotype that Chinese EVs are all about spec sheets and lack dynamic finesse. It achieves a near-perfect equilibrium between performance, comfort, and handling—a level of chassis sophistication that would make many premium European rivals blush.”— Ma Chao, Chief Performance Vehicle Tester

Despite adopting the low-slung seating typical of dedicated EV platforms, the Zeekr 007 ensures an expansive forward view through thoughtful packaging and clear hood delineation. A-pillar blind spots are well managed. The integrated sport seats offer excellent lateral support and cushioning that’s slightly softer than the Model 3’s, enhancing long-distance comfort. High-end trims include full electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions.

Rear visibility is somewhat limited by the sleek fastback roofline, but this is fully mitigated by the standard electronic exterior mirrors (camera-based digital side mirrors), which provide distortion-free, wide-angle views—even in rain, snow, or darkness. Tesla’s Model 3 still relies on conventional physical mirrors, leaving it vulnerable to C-pillar obstruction—a known shortcoming. Additionally, the Zeekr 007’s 360-degree surround-view camera and transparent underbody display make parking effortless.

Interior design is where the Zeekr 007 diverges most dramatically from the Tesla Model 3. Embracing a “Hidden Energy” philosophy, the cabin features flowing horizontal lines, rich material layering, and generous use of Microfiber suede headliners, Nappa leather, and brushed metal accents—creating a “third living space” that balances cutting-edge tech with tactile warmth. Its signature feature is the industry-first 35.5-inch AR-HUD (augmented reality heads-up display), which replaces the traditional instrument cluster entirely, projecting navigation, vehicle data, and ADAS alerts onto an expansive, crystal-clear virtual screen directly ahead of the driver—an experience both immersive and highly functional.

In contrast, the Model 3 adheres to Tesla’s stark minimalism: all controls funnel through a central touchscreen, with no physical gauges or buttons beyond the steering yoke. While iconic and efficient once mastered, this approach can feel austere and demanding for new users.

The 15.05-inch 2.5K OLED infotainment screen runs Zeekr OS powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip, delivering buttery-smooth performance and intuitive logic. Notably, Zeekr retains a few critical physical buttons—including the hazard flashers—for immediate, eyes-free access, enhancing safety. Material quality and build precision throughout the cabin are exemplary; soft-touch surfaces dominate every contact point, resulting in a sense of luxury that clearly eclipses the utilitarian ethos of the Model 3 interior.

Space is another area where the Zeekr 007 shines. With a 2,928 mm wheelbase—comparable to some midsize luxury sedans—it offers limousine-like rear legroom, far exceeding the standard-wheelbase Model 3. Rear seat cushions are long and well-contoured, providing excellent thigh support. Headroom is slightly compromised for passengers over 185 cm due to the sloping roofline, but remains superior to the Model 3. Crucially, the rear floor is completely flat, ensuring comfort for middle-seat occupants.

Storage solutions are both clever and practical: deep door bins, a cavernous open tray beneath the center console, and a neatly organized glovebox. While it lacks a frunk like the Model 3, the Zeekr 007’s trunk boasts a wide opening and ample depth, with split-folding rear seats enabling flexible cargo expansion. The Model 3 compensates with its useful front trunk but suffers from a narrower rear aperture.

“The Zeekr 007 proves that electric sedans no longer need to sacrifice space for style. It delivers a segment-transcending rear experience within an elegant, athletic fastback silhouette—a remarkable feat of packaging engineering.”— Li Lan, Automotive Design & Packaging Specialist

Pricing and equipment form a core pillar of the Zeekr 007’s appeal. Its aggressively positioned starting price comes with an “high-spec-from-entry” strategy: standard features include the Snapdragon 8295 chip, the panoramic AR-HUD, 800V architecture, and advanced driver-assistance hardware. At comparable price points, the Zeekr 007 significantly outpaces the Model 3 in terms of luxury appointments, material richness, and headline-grabbing tech (such as the interactive light bar and AR-HUD). Tesla counters with global brand prestige, a mature and energy-efficient powertrain, and its globally consistent FSD (Full Self-Driving) software ecosystem—though functionality in China differs substantially.

Charging performance is a standout strength of the 800V-based Zeekr 007. Under ideal conditions, Zeekr claims a 15-minute charge can add up to 610 km of range, with peak charging rates reaching 500 kW. Real-world testing at compatible ultra-fast chargers confirms markedly quicker replenishment than 400V-platform rivals. Tesla’s Model 3, while limited to ～250 kW peak charging, benefits from the world’s most extensive and reliable Supercharger network—ensuring unmatched convenience and reliability in daily use.

Warranty coverage further underscores Zeekr’s customer-centric approach: first owners receive a 6-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and lifetime coverage for the battery and electric drivetrain (non-commercial use). Tesla offers 4 years/80,000 km for the whole vehicle and 8 years (or mileage-limited) for the battery and drive units. Moreover, Zeekr’s domestic service network provides faster response times and deeper localization advantages in China.

Safety remains foundational to Zeekr’s DNA. Built on the SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform, the Zeekr 007 features exceptional structural rigidity and a full suite of advanced sensors—including LiDAR—for high-level driver assistance. It is engineered to achieve top ratings across all major global crash-test protocols. The Model 3, already a five-star performer in every NCAP region, sets the benchmark for passive and active safety through years of real-world validation.

“The Zeekr 007 is more than just a car—it’s a declaration of intent. With class-leading performance, segment-defying specs, groundbreaking tech, and compelling value, it directly challenges the rules Tesla’s Model 3 established. The competitive landscape may be shifting for good.”— Wang Yanfeng, EV Industry Analyst

1.What is the Zeekr 007?

The Zeekr 007 is the brand’s first luxury all-electric sedan, built on the SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture). Positioned as a midsize high-performance intelligent EV, it integrates Zeekr’s latest advancements in e-powertrains, smart cockpits, and autonomous driving technologies.

2.What are the key technological highlights of the Zeekr 007?

Core innovations include an 800V high-voltage electrical architecture, high-efficiency silicon carbide e-drivetrains, Qilin battery packs enabling up to 870 km CLTC range, 500 kW peak ultra-fast charging (“Zeekr Power”), a 35.5-inch AR-HUD panoramic display, and a LiDAR-equipped high-level ADAS system.

3.How does the Zeekr 007 compare to the Tesla Model 3? Which should I choose?

The Zeekr 007 excels in interior luxury, rear passenger space, futuristic tech (AR-HUD, interactive lighting), theoretical charging speed, and value-for-money with high standard equipment. The Tesla Model 3 leads in global brand equity, powertrain efficiency, mature Autopilot foundation (trained on vast real-world data), and seamless access to the Supercharger network. Choose the Zeekr 007 if you prioritize comfort, space, cutting-edge features, and premium materials at a competitive price. Opt for the Model 3 if you value Tesla’s ecosystem, minimalist design, proven reliability, and global software consistency.