If you’re shopping for an electric SUV but find yourself hesitating at Tesla’s price tag, you might want to meet the XPeng G6. This Chinese-built electric vehicle has quietly entered the Australian market with a compelling proposition: similar size and features to the Model Y, but with a lower price and some genuinely impressive tech.
What Actually Makes the XPeng G6 Stand Out?
The G6 isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel – it’s taking the successful mid-size electric SUV formula and offering it at a more accessible price point. Starting at $54,800 for the Standard Range model, it undercuts the Tesla Model Y by $1,100, while the Long Range variant at $59,800 comes in $10,100 cheaper than Tesla’s equivalent.
But price isn’t everything. What caught our attention is how XPeng has managed to pack genuinely useful features into both variants without charging extra for them. You get 20-inch Michelin tyres, a panoramic glass roof, heated and ventilated front seats, and wireless phone charging as standard – features that would cost extra on many competitors.
Real-World Performance That Actually Matters
The Long Range version delivers 210kW of power and 440Nm of torque, getting you from 0-100km/h in 6.2 seconds. That’s quick enough for any real-world situation without being unnecessarily aggressive. The 570km WLTP range means you can actually plan longer trips without constant charging anxiety.
What’s more impressive is the charging capability. The G6 uses an 800-volt architecture that allows it to charge from 10-80% in just 20 minutes at compatible fast chargers. For context, that’s significantly faster than many competitors and could genuinely change how you think about road trips.
Living With the XPeng G6 Daily
Interior Space and Comfort
Inside, you’ll find a spacious cabin that comfortably seats five adults. The front seats offer 8-way power adjustment with lumbar support, and all seats can be heated. The 14.96-inch central touchscreen handles most functions, though thankfully physical controls remain for essential features like climate control.
The interior feels premium without being flashy. XPeng has chosen quality leatherette over genuine leather, which is practical for families and easier to maintain. The panoramic roof adds an airy feel, though some might prefer the option of a solid roof for better thermal management.
Technology That Works
The infotainment system runs on powerful processors that keep everything responsive. Voice recognition actually works well – you can ask “Hey XPeng, how do I open the charge port?” and it understands. The system supports smartphone mirroring and includes an 18-speaker audio system that delivers clear, crisp sound.
Advanced driver assistance features come standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system. These aren’t just box-ticking exercises – they genuinely make daily driving more relaxed and safer.
Charging and Running Costs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Charging (AC) | 11kW maximum, 8 hours for full charge |
| Fast Charging (DC) | 280kW peak, 20 minutes (10-80%) |
| Energy Consumption | 17.5kWh/100km (WLTP) |
| Home Charging Cost | ~$33 full charge (at $0.35/kWh) |
| Public Charging Cost | ~$42 (10-80% at $0.65/kWh) |
| Service Intervals | 20,000km or 12 months |
| Service Cost | $238 per visit |
| Warranty | 5 years/120,000km (extendable to 10 years) |
What We Actually Think After Driving It
The G6 feels refined and well-built. Road noise is minimal, the ride is comfortable, and the steering feels natural. It’s not as sporty as a Tesla Model Y, but for most buyers, the comfort-oriented setup will be more appealing for daily use.
The Not-So-Perfect Bits
Let’s be honest about the compromises. The steering can feel a bit disconnected at times, and the suspension setup prioritises comfort over dynamic handling. If you’re coming from a sporty car, you might notice the body roll in corners.
The driver monitoring system can be overly sensitive – it interprets yawning or laughing as fatigue and suggests you take a break. While safety-focused, it can become annoying on longer drives.
Should You Actually Consider It?
The XPeng G6 makes sense if you want Tesla Model Y capability without the premium price tag. The build quality matches European standards, the technology works well, and the charging speeds are genuinely impressive.
Perfect For:
- Families wanting space and efficiency
- Buyers seeking value without compromising features
- Anyone prioritising comfort over sportiness
- Tech enthusiasts who appreciate responsive infotainment
Maybe Not Ideal If:
- You prefer sporty, responsive handling
- Brand prestige is important to you
- You need proven long-term reliability data
XPeng has created a compelling alternative that deserves serious consideration. The G6 offers genuine value, impressive technology, and practical daily usability. While it may not have Tesla’s brand cachet, it delivers where it counts – comfort, efficiency, and affordability.
At these prices, with this level of standard equipment and charging capability, the G6 represents one of the better electric SUV value propositions in Australia right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How reliable is XPeng as a brand?
A: XPeng is a 10-year-old Chinese manufacturer that has achieved 5-star Euro NCAP ratings. While newer to Australia, they offer comprehensive warranties and have partnered with Ultra Tune for nationwide servicing.
Q: Can I charge the G6 at any public charging station?
A: Yes, the G6 uses standard CCS2 connector for DC fast charging and Type 2 for AC charging, making it compatible with all Australian public charging networks.
Q: How does the G6 compare to other Chinese EVs in Australia?
A: The G6 focuses on premium features and fast charging, positioning itself above budget options like BYD Atto 3 but below luxury models, offering strong value in the mid-range segment.
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