The Zeekr X EV offers a premium driving experience without the high cost – but too many little problems undermine its appeal

There’s a real changing tide in the auto industry right now, with the rise of quality, worthwhile Chinese-made alternatives to what’s on offer from established European, American, Korean and Japanese manufacturers. Brands previously considered ‘budget’ like Hyundai and Kia have decidedly moved up-market to support the lower volumes and greater expectations of the EV market, which has left room for Chinese automakers to undercut basically everyone.

But Chinese carmakers are now also looking to the premium market, and this is the space the Zeekr X is (pun intended) seeking to play in. It’s a car that can often keep up with much more expensive alternatives – or it would, if not for a variety of minor but painful issues that add up to undermine much of its appeal.