In a mid-to-large SUV market (priced between RMB 350,000 and 500,000) largely dominated by six-seat family-oriented vehicles, the Zeekr 8X makes a precise entry with a "gentleman in a suit, beast underneath" attitude. It aims to redefine the benchmark for sporty mid-to-large SUVs with rare-in-class three-second-level acceleration, a full-stack 900V high-voltage architecture, and million-level (in RMB) chassis hardware. In actual driving, the 8X is powered by a dedicated 2.0T plug-in hybrid engine (1,998cc) paired with front and rear electric motors. The dual-motor version delivers a combined system output of 660 kW (898 hp), while the tri-motor Yaoying Edition pushes that to 1,030 kW (1,401 hp). Combined torque exceeds 1,000 N·m, enabling 0-100 km/h sprints of 3.7 seconds (dual-motor) and just 2.96 seconds (tri-motor). The throttle mapping is aggressive and direct, with no hesitation in the initial response. A deep press unleashes instantaneous torque that catapults this 5.1-meter behemoth like an arrow, while the mid-to-high range retains abundant reserves, with minimal performance degradation even in low-battery conditions.

By comparison, the Li Auto L8 is equipped with a 1.5T four-cylinder range extender (1,496cc) and front/rear dual motors producing 330 kW (449 hp) and 620 N·m of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 5.3 seconds. Its power delivery emphasizes "smooth comfort," with a calmer initial throttle response. The overall character leans toward the composed feel of a family hauler, trading sharpness for patience. This creates a distinct "generational gap" with the 8X. The fundamental philosophy divergence: the 8X is an all-condition performance beast, while the Li Auto L8 is a gentle, thoughtful family steward.

The Zeekr 8X features a 55 or 70 kWh battery pack, with a CLTC all-electric range of up to 410 km and a combined range of 1,416 km. Leveraging a 900V 6C ultra-fast charging system, it takes just 9 minutes to charge from 20% to 80%. The Li Auto L8 comes with 42.8 or 52.3 kWh batteries, offering a CLTC electric range of up to 280 km and a combined range of 1,415 km, with fast charging taking about 30 minutes. Both solve range anxiety through extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) layouts, but the Zeekr 8X boasts an overwhelming advantage in charging efficiency.

"If the similarly priced Li Auto L8 is a 'cozy living room,' then the Zeekr 8X is a 'gentleman beast.' Its angle of attack isn't compromise and balance, but an all-out offensive on driving dynamics and performance." — Luo Ji, automotive journalist

Settling into the Zeekr 8X’s cockpit, the high seating position and expansive outward view are expected for a mid-to-large SUV. The steering wheel offers solid feel with moderate weighting. The chassis adopts a front double-wishbone, rear multi-link independent suspension, but more crucially, it comes standard with closed dual-chamber air suspension, dual-valve CCD adaptive dampers, and a 48V active anti-roll bar. The dual-chamber air suspension achieves two-stage stiffness adjustment by opening or closing the main and auxiliary chambers. The dual-valve CCD dampers provide a 2-3x wider damping adjustment bandwidth than single-valve designs. In city conditions, Comfort mode glides over speed bumps like a magic carpet, completely absorbing minor vibrations. In Sport mode, the chassis actively lowers the center of gravity, producing almost no body roll during high-speed cornering, with roll angle controlled within 2 degrees. This solid, planted premium feel is something the Li Auto L8’s single-chamber air suspension struggles to match.

The Li Auto L8’s chassis features front double-wishbone and rear five-link independent suspension, with standard single-chamber air springs and CDC variable damping shock absorbers. The tuning is supremely comfortable, filtering road imperfections smoothly and maintaining stable body composure. However, during fast cornering, its body roll control and chassis tightness lag notably behind the Zeekr 8X.

The Zeekr 8X’s "Dinghai Intelligent Control Hub" orchestrates the suspension, brakes, steering, and power delivery, resulting in responsive front-end reactions that make this 5.1-meter SUV handle with the precision of a hot hatch. The active anti-roll bar responds within 0.2 seconds, delivering up to 1,400 N·m of balancing torque. The braking system employs high-performance   Brembo four-piston calipers, with large wheels ensuring ample grip and a linear, powerful brake pedal feel. The Li Auto L8 achieves a maximum moose test speed of 72.6 km/h, with solid braking performance, but its support under conditions and dynamic response are noticeably inferior to the 8X.

Inside the Zeekr 8X, the interior theme is "hardcore luxury." A dual-linked screen for the center console and front passenger, combined with a HUD, is trimmed in extensive Nappa leather and suede with raw stone-like accents, delivering a premium tactile experience. Standard second-row Eames lounge chairs support a 137° recline and 22-point massage, maximizing comfort. The debut cockpit-integrated super intelligence system "Super Eva" supports precise navigation with vague instructions, complex itinerary planning, and future vehicle-ecosystem integration.

The Li Auto L8’s interior is famous for its "mobile home" concept, with a five-screen 3D space interaction layout. Dual 15.7-inch linked screens cover the center console and passenger side, while a second-row 15.7-inch ceiling-mounted screen is available. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P chip, its smoothness is top-notch. The unique, unmatched family-friendly soft-tech warmth is hard to replicate.

The Zeekr 8X comes standard with one 192-line lidar and the Qianli Haohan H7 driver-assist system. The top trim features dual Thor-U chips and Qianli Haohan H9, supporting highway NOA and other functions. The G-ASD 4.0 system enables seamless point-to-point operation across all scenarios, including air gesture summoning for parking. The Li Auto L8 Pro/Max/Ultra all feature the Li Auto AD system as standard. The Max version is equipped with the Nvidia Drive Thor-U chip, supporting highway NOA and memory parking. However, both have room for improvement in urban autonomous driving maturity.

"Sitting in the Zeekr 8X, you feel a desire to conquer the road through hardcore luxury. Sitting in the Li Auto L8, you feel a sense of peace from family warmth." — Li Yan, Editor-in-Chief, Driving Control School

The Zeekr 8X’s core strength is performance, not extreme family utility. Its dimensions: length 5,100 mm, width 1,998 mm, height 1,780 mm, wheelbase 3,069 mm, roughly on par with the Li Auto L8 (5,080×1,995×1,800 mm, wheelbase 3,005 mm). It is primarily a 5-seater, with a 6-seat optional package. Cargo capacity is 1,133 liters, expandable to 2,200 liters. However, due to its fastback roofline, rear headroom is slightly tight. When the 6-seat option is chosen, the third row is cramped, lacking the L8’s spaciousness.

The Li Auto L8 excels in space practicality. Its 2+2+2 six-seat layout resonated immediately upon launch. The second-row captain’s chairs allow easy access to the third row, which can be folded flexibly. The Li Auto L8’s multi-row configuration remains a hallmark advantage for family use. The rivalry is a direct dialogue between "performance-and-handling" and "family-comfort" schools. Choosing the Zeekr 8X means you are willing to pay a premium for 3-second acceleration, 900V fast charging, and top-tier chassis hardware. Choosing the Li Auto L8 means you prioritize six-seat family practicality and brand reputation.

1. What kind of vehicle is the Zeekr 8X?

The Zeekr 8X is a mid-to-large super plug-in hybrid electric SUV from Zeekr. Its core selling points are the full-stack 900V high-voltage architecture, three-second-level savage acceleration, and standard dual-chamber air suspension across all trims. It targets the RMB 350,000-420,000 segment for users seeking performance and driving thrills.

2. What are the Zeekr 8X’s core competitive advantages?

Its advantages lie in generational performance superiority, a class-leading chassis as standard, and 6C ultra-fast charging: (1) 0-100 km/h in 3.7s (dual-motor) / 2.96s (tri-motor); (2) Standard closed dual-chamber air suspension + dual-valve CCD + 48V active anti-roll bar; (3) 9-minute recharging for over 400 km of range; (4) 905 kW / 1,401 hp, combined range of 1,416 km.

3. What are the main differences between the Zeekr 8X and Li Auto L8, and how should I choose?

Performance: Zeekr 8X (dual-motor 3.7s / tri-motor 2.96s) far exceeds the L8’s 5.3s.

Chassis & suspension: Zeekr 8X standard closed dual-chamber air suspension + dual-valve CCD + active anti-roll bar; Li Auto L8 standard single-chamber air suspension + CDC.

Space & layout: Li Auto L8’s six-seat layout is more mature and practical; Zeekr 8X primarily 5-seats, 6-seats optional.

Charging speed: Zeekr 8X – 9 minutes to 80%; Li Auto L8 – about 30 minutes.

Price range: Zeekr 8X focuses on high-performance flagship positioning; price can be higher with custom options.

Choice advice:

Choose the Zeekr 8X if you prioritize savage acceleration, charging efficiency, and top-tier chassis hardware.

Choose the Li Auto L8 if you prioritize six-seat family practicality, a cozy smart cabin, and brand reputation.

User Comments

Fu: "Very suitable for family use."

YPT: "I’m a bit tempted."