Looking for an electric SUV that won’t break the bank? The Leap motor C10 might just be what you’ve been waiting for. This Chinese-made electric SUV has been making waves in markets across Europe, Australia, and beyond, offering impressive features at a surprisingly affordable price point.
What Makes the Leap motor C10 Stand Out?
The Leap motor C10 represents a fresh approach to electric family vehicles. Built by a company that started in 2015, this SUV aims to deliver premium features without the premium price tag. What’s particularly interesting is that it’s backed by Stellantis, the automotive giant behind brands like Jeep and Peugeot, giving it credibility in global markets.
At 4.74 meters long, the C10 sits firmly in the mid-size SUV category, offering plenty of space for families while remaining manageable for daily driving. The design philosophy focuses on simplicity and functionality rather than flashy styling gimmicks.
Performance That Delivers
Power and Range
The Leap motor C10 comes with a single electric motor producing 160kW (218hp) and 320Nm of torque. While these numbers might not set your heart racing, they’re more than adequate for family duties. The 0-60mph sprint takes 7.5 seconds, which is respectable for a nearly two-tonne SUV.
Range anxiety shouldn’t be a major concern with the 69.9kWh battery pack delivering up to 263 miles (WLTP) on a single charge. This puts it in line with many established competitors, though it falls short of the longest-range options available.
Charging Capabilities
Here’s where things get interesting – and perhaps a bit disappointing. The C10’s maximum charging speed is limited to 84kW, which is considerably slower than many rivals that can handle 150kW or more. This means a 30-80% charge takes around 35 minutes rather than the 20-25 minutes you might expect from faster-charging alternatives.
For home charging, the onboard 6.6kW AC charger will top up the battery from 30-80% in about 6 hours using a home wall box.
Interior Space and Features
Room for Everyone
Step inside, and you’ll find the C10 takes family comfort seriously. Even tall passengers won’t feel cramped in the front seats, thanks to electrically adjustable seating with plenty of adjustment range. The rear seats offer impressive legroom – up to 1050mm according to Leap motor – and the backrests are adjustable for added comfort on longer journeys.
The boot provides 435 liters of space, expanding to 1,410 liters with the rear seats folded. Leap motor even claims you can fit a double bed measuring 1.8m x 1.2m with both front and rear seats folded down.
Technology and Comfort
The interior revolves around a 14.6-inch central infotainment display paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. While impressive to look at, there’s one notable omission – no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support. This might be a deal-breaker for some buyers who rely on these smartphone integration features.
Other tech highlights include:
- 12-speaker audio system with 840W output
- Wireless smartphone charging
- 360-degree camera system
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Panoramic sunroof covering 2.1 square meters
Pricing and Value Proposition
Competitive Pricing
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the Leap motor C10 is its pricing. Starting at £36,500 in the UK market, it significantly undercuts rivals like the Tesla Model Y (£44,990) while offering similar space and features. In Australia, pricing hasn’t been confirmed yet, but estimates suggest it could start around AUD 50,000.
The value proposition becomes even more attractive when you consider what comes standard. Most competitors charge extra for features like the panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and 360-degree camera that come included with the C10.
Real-World Considerations
Build Quality and Reliability
Early reviews suggest the C10 feels solid and well-built, though it lacks the refined driving dynamics of more established European brands. The ride quality is comfortable but not exceptional, and the steering lacks the precision you might find in a BMW or Audi.
The integration with Stellantis should help with parts availability and service support, addressing common concerns about Chinese automotive brands in Western markets.
Warranty and Support
Leap motor offers a competitive warranty package with 7 years or 160,000km coverage on the vehicle and 8 years or 160,000km on the battery pack. This demonstrates confidence in the product and provides peace of mind for buyers.
Should You Consider the Leap motor C10?
The C10 makes the most sense for budget-conscious families who want electric SUV space and features without the premium pricing. It’s not the most exciting vehicle to drive, nor does it charge as quickly as some alternatives, but it delivers solid value for money.
If you prioritize features, space, and affordability over brand prestige or cutting-edge performance, the Leapmotor C10 deserves serious consideration. However, if you need the fastest charging speeds or the most dynamic driving experience, you might want to look elsewhere.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 160kW (218hp) / 320Nm torque |
| Battery Capacity | 69.9kWh LFP |
| WLTP Range | 263 miles (420km) |
| 0-60mph | 7.5 seconds |
| Max Charging Speed | 84kW DC |
| Boot Space | 435L (1,410L seats down) |
| Dimensions | 4,739mm × 1,900mm × 1,680mm |
| Warranty | 7yr/160,000km vehicle, 8yr/160,000km battery |
| Starting Price | £36,500 (UK) |
| Seating | 5 seats |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Leap motor C10 support Apple CarPlay?
A: No, the C10 doesn’t currently support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, relying instead on its built-in infotainment system.
Q: How long does it take to charge the C10?
A: Using an 84kW rapid charger, expect 30-80% charge in about 35 minutes. Home charging takes around 6 hours for the same range.
Q: Is the C10 available in different battery sizes?
A: In most markets, the C10 comes with a single 69.9kWh battery option, though some regions offer a smaller 52.9kWh variant.
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