Chinese EV upstart XPeng has just dropped the updated G6, and it’s packing enough tech to give the Tesla Model Y sleepless nights. The refreshed electric crossover gets sharper styling, even faster charging, and all the tech you’d expect from a company that’s been giving Elon’s crew a run for their money.
Design: Less Blob, More Aggression
Gone is the slightly awkward original styling – the facelifted G6 now sports a more aggressive front end with slimmer LED light signatures and a cleaner overall look. The rear gets similar treatment, with a redesigned light bar that actually makes this Chinese EV look properly premium. At 4.75m long, it’s still in that sweet spot between compact and full-size SUV, making it perfect for urban warriors who occasionally need to haul some gear.
Powertrain: Charge Faster Than Your Phone
The big news is the upgraded 800V architecture that now supports 451kW ultra-fast charging – meaning you can go from 10-80% in under 20 minutes if you can find a powerful enough charger. That’s proper “coffee break” territory and puts it right up there with the fastest-charging EVs on the market.
Two versions will be available:
- Rear-wheel drive with 296bhp and 440km range (CLTC)
- All-wheel drive pumping out a healthy 483bhp for 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds
Tech That Puts Tesla to Shame
XPeng’s never been shy about loading their cars with tech, and the G6 continues the tradition:
- XNGP advanced driver assist (their answer to Tesla’s FSD)
- 10.25-inch digital dash paired with a massive 14.96-inch touchscreen
- Lidar sensors for proper Level 2+ autonomous capability
- Over-the-air updates because nobody likes dealership visits
The interior gets premium materials throughout, with vegan leather options and clever storage solutions everywhere. Rear seat space is generous, and the panoramic glass roof makes the cabin feel even more airy.
Price and Availability
While UK pricing hasn’t been confirmed yet, expect it to undercut the Model Y by a decent margin when it arrives in Europe next year. In China, prices start at around ¥209,900 (£23k), but we’d expect European versions to land closer to £40k given the extra kit and taxes.
The updated G6 shows XPeng isn’t messing around – this is a properly competitive EV that just might make you think twice before defaulting to that Tesla configurator again. With this kind of charging speed and tech at this price point, the established players should be very worried indeed.
