Xpeng G6 Review 2026: Smart SUV with Ultra-Fast Charging

The electric SUV market has a new contender: the Xpeng G6. This smart electric crossover arrives in the UK market in early 2026, promising premium build quality, cutting-edge technology, and ultra-fast charging capabilities—all at a price that significantly undercuts its main rival, the Tesla Model Y. In this comprehensive Xpeng G6 review, we’ll examine whether this Chinese EV manufacturer has created a genuine alternative to established players.

Introduction: Xpeng G6 Overview

The Xpeng G6 is a mid-size electric coupe-crossover that positions itself as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y. Measuring 4,750mm long, 1,920mm wide, and 1,650mm tall, it’s a five-seat SUV with a sleek, aerodynamic profile boasting a drag coefficient of just 0.248. The G6 features an 800V electrical architecture that enables some of the fastest charging speeds available in any production electric vehicle.

For UK buyers, the Xpeng G6 review landscape reveals a vehicle engineered for European markets. It achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2024, demonstrating Xpeng’s commitment to safety. The G6 UK launch is scheduled for Q1 2026, with three trim levels available: the RWD Standard Range starting at £39,990, the RWD Long Range at £44,990, and the AWD Performance Black Edition at £49,990. This pricing structure places the G6 significantly below the Tesla Model Y, which starts at £55,900—a price advantage of over £15,000 for the base model.

Design and Interior

The Xpeng G6 presents a modern, clean aesthetic that may lack distinctive character but is undeniably well-executed. Its coupe-crossover silhouette is contemporary and aerodynamic, with the Performance Black Edition adding sporty touches including 20-inch black alloy wheels and smoked black exterior trim.

Step inside, and you’ll notice this isn’t a budget vehicle. The interior quality represents a significant step up, with reviewers consistently praising premium materials, softer touchpoints, and finer stitching compared to the Tesla Model Y. The 2026 model brings substantial updates: a redesigned steering wheel with capacitive buttons, ambient lighting, heated/cooled massage seats, and up to 60% new interior components.

The infotainment system receives a significant upgrade for 2026. The center screen grows to 15.6 inches (from 14.9 inches), powered by a Qualcomm 8295 processor, while the digital instrument cluster expands to 10.25 inches. One of the G6’s key advantages over Tesla is its support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—features that Tesla has resisted. Combined with an app store for additional applications, this gives the G6 a more flexible infotainment experience.

The Xsmart OS software performs well, though some reviewers note the interface can be infuriating to use at times. Interior space is comparable to or exceeds the Tesla Model Y, with generous headroom and legroom for all occupants. A digital rear-view mirror is available on 2026 models, though rear visibility can be limited—a common trade-off in coupe-style SUVs.

Performance and Specifications

The 2026 Xpeng G6 UK lineup offers three powertrain configurations. The RWD Standard Range produces 190kW (255hp) and accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds. The RWD Long Range increases output to 210kW (282hp) with a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds. Both rear-wheel-drive variants provide adequate performance for daily driving, feeling brisk rather than thrilling.

The AWD Performance Black Edition is where things get interesting. With 358kW (480hp) and 660Nm of torque, it rockets from 0-62mph in just 4.1 seconds. However, reviewers note that the G6 doesn’t feel quite as quick as the Model Y in comparable trims. Performance isn’t the G6’s primary selling point—that honor belongs to its charging capability and value proposition.

This is where the Xpeng G6 review reveals some weaknesses. The chassis foundation is well-balanced, and the ride quality is notably more comfortable than the Model Y, particularly on rough roads. However, the steering feel has been consistently criticized. It’s described as vague and inconsistent, with counterintuitive weighting that demands extra concentration from the driver. In sharp turns, there’s noticeable body roll, and the overall handling doesn’t inspire confidence in spirited driving.

The lane-keeping assistance system has also received criticism for being jerky and following an erratic path in some situations. While the XPilot system mirrors Tesla’s Autopilot in many ways, it’s described as more forgiving when it comes to disengagements during quick maneuvers.

Charging and Range

800V Architecture

The Xpeng G6’s party trick is its 800V electrical architecture, which enables ultra-fast charging capabilities that significantly outpace most competitors. This isn’t just a marketing claim—the G6 can genuinely charge faster than almost any other production electric vehicle currently available.

The 2026 model takes this even further with 5C ultra-fast charging capability, allowing peak charging power of up to 451kW. This represents a substantial improvement over current models, which achieve 215-280kW peak charging power—already impressive figures.

Ultra-Fast Charging Capability

The charging performance is genuinely remarkable. The 2026 Xpeng G6 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 12 minutes, with 50% to 80% taking only 6 minutes. In practical terms, a 10-minute charging session can add up to 450km of range—enough for most daily driving needs.

This charging speed advantage is particularly relevant for UK buyers who may not have home charging or who frequently undertake longer journeys. While Tesla’s Supercharger network remains more extensive, the G6’s ability to charge faster means less time waiting at charging stations when you do find a compatible ultra-fast charger.

The 2026 model also addresses cold-weather charging concerns, with the ability to charge in just 15 minutes even at -30°C—an important consideration for UK winters.

Battery Options and Range

The 2026 Xpeng G6 features an 80.8kWh LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery, representing a significant upgrade from current models. The LFP chemistry offers a 30% increase in lifespan compared to previous battery technology, addressing long-term ownership concerns.

Current models offer two battery options: a 66kWh LFP pack in the Standard Range model (435km WLTP range) and an 87.5kWh lithium-ion NMC pack in the Long Range variant (570km WLTP range). The 2026 Long Range model achieves 535km WLTP range with the new 80.8kWh battery.

Real-World Range Performance

While WLTP figures provide a useful comparison tool, real-world range depends on driving style, conditions, and climate control usage. Reviewers note that the G6 won’t achieve the same range as the Model Y in some conditions, though efficiency is generally good. The G6’s real-world range is competitive but not class-leading—adequate for most use cases but not exceptional.

Technology and ADAS Features

The Xpeng G6 comes standard with XPilot 2.5, which includes comprehensive driver assistance features. However, the real technological showcase is the XNGP (Xpeng Navigation Guided Pilot) system, available on higher trims and receiving significant upgrades for 2026. XNGP 3.0 All-Scenario NOA enables full scenario-based intelligent assisted driving, covering urban, highway, and parking situations. The system can automatically detour around construction zones, handle unprotected left turns, and predict pedestrian crossings with a 95%+ pass rate.

Even without the full XNGP system, the G6 comes well-equipped with standard ADAS features. The sensor suite is impressive: 2 LiDAR sensors, 5 mmWave radars, 11 cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors—31 sensors in total. Standard safety features include Automatic Emergency Steering (AES), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) effective up to 130 km/h, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and advanced speed assistance systems.

The 2026 models introduce significant computing power upgrades. Buyers can choose between Ultra SE (1,500 TOPS with two Turing AI chips) and Ultra (2,250 TOPS with three Turing AI chips) configurations. This massive computing power enables the Vision Language Action (VLA) model, which integrates visual perception, language understanding, and action generation for near-L4 assisted driving capabilities.

Safety and Euro NCAP Rating

The Xpeng G6 achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2024, matching the Tesla Model Y’s top safety score. This rating demonstrates that Xpeng has engineered the G6 to meet the highest European safety standards, addressing concerns some buyers might have about Chinese-built vehicles.

The comprehensive testing covered frontal impact tests, side impact tests, pole tests to evaluate center airbag robustness, whiplash testing, pedestrian tests, and AEB tests for car-to-car, pedestrian, and cyclist scenarios. Standard safety equipment includes dual frontal airbags, side chest-protecting airbags, head-protecting airbags, and a center airbag. The AEB system operates at speeds up to 130 km/h, providing protection across a wide range of driving scenarios. This comprehensive safety performance should provide confidence to UK buyers considering the Xpeng G6.

Xpeng G6 vs Tesla Model Y Comparison

The most compelling aspect of the Xpeng G6 UK proposition is its pricing advantage. Starting at £39,990 compared to the Model Y’s £55,900 base price, the G6 offers a £15,910 saving. Even at the top end, the G6 Performance Black Edition at £49,990 undercuts the Model Y Performance’s £82,900 price tag by over £32,000.

The Model Y offers faster acceleration options, with Performance variants that outpace even the G6’s AWD model. However, for most buyers, the G6’s performance is more than adequate. Where the G6 falls short is in driving dynamics—the Model Y’s steering feel and handling are more engaging. The G6’s vague steering and noticeable body roll detract from the driving experience, though its more comfortable ride quality may appeal to those prioritizing comfort over sportiness.

Both vehicles offer advanced ADAS systems, but they take different approaches. Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving have the advantage of maturity and extensive real-world testing, while Xpeng’s XNGP system offers more standard hardware (including LiDAR) and is described as more forgiving in operation. The G6’s advantage lies in its support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, features that Tesla has resisted.

This is where the Xpeng G6 review consistently shows an advantage. The G6’s interior features premium materials, softer touchpoints, and finer stitching compared to the Model Y. The build quality feels more substantial, with attention to detail that exceeds what Tesla offers at similar price points. The G6’s 800V architecture enables significantly faster charging than the Model Y’s 400V system. While Tesla’s Supercharger network is more extensive, the G6’s ability to charge faster means less time waiting when you do find a compatible ultra-fast charger.

Pricing and Trim Levels

At £39,990, the RWD Standard Range represents exceptional value in the electric SUV market. With 255hp, 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds, and 435km WLTP range, it provides everything most buyers need at a price that significantly undercuts competitors. The RWD Long Range at £44,990 increases power to 282hp, improves acceleration to 6.7 seconds, and extends range to 535km WLTP (2026 model).

The AWD Performance Black Edition at £49,990 transforms the G6 into a genuinely quick electric SUV. With 480hp, 660Nm of torque, and 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds, it provides thrilling performance while remaining significantly cheaper than comparable Model Y variants. The Black Edition adds sporty styling touches including 20-inch black alloy wheels, smoked black exterior trim, and a grey-toned suede-texture interior.

Across all trim levels, the Xpeng G6 UK pricing represents exceptional value. The combination of premium build quality, advanced technology, ultra-fast charging, and competitive specifications at prices significantly below the Tesla Model Y makes the G6 a compelling proposition for value-conscious buyers.

Pros and Cons

What We Like

The Xpeng G6 review reveals numerous strengths. The value proposition is exceptional—significantly cheaper than the Tesla Model Y while offering comparable or superior features in many areas. The interior quality is genuinely premium, with materials and build quality that exceed expectations at this price point.

The ultra-fast charging capability is genuinely impressive, with 10-80% charging in just 12 minutes on the 2026 model. This addresses one of the main concerns with electric vehicle ownership. The 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating provides confidence, while the comprehensive standard equipment means buyers don’t need to spend extra on essential features.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support is a significant advantage over Tesla, appealing to buyers who want seamless smartphone integration. The spacious interior and practical layout make it suitable for families, while the comfortable ride quality is appreciated on longer journeys.

What Could Be Better

The steering feel is the G6’s most significant weakness. It’s vague, inconsistent, and demands extra concentration from the driver. The non-round steering wheel design is criticized as unintuitive, and the overall driving dynamics don’t inspire confidence in spirited driving.

The infotainment interface, while functional, can be infuriating to use at times. Some functions are buried in menus, and the touchscreen reliance for HVAC controls may frustrate some buyers. The lane-keeping assistance system is jerky and follows an erratic path in some situations, requiring refinement through software updates.

The styling, while well-executed, lacks distinctive character. It’s generic in a way that won’t offend but also won’t excite. Rear visibility is limited—a common trade-off in coupe-style SUVs but worth noting for buyers who prioritize visibility.

While the G6 doesn’t feel quite as quick as the Model Y in comparable trims, and it won’t achieve the same range in some conditions, these are relatively minor concerns given the significant price advantage.

Verdict and Who Should Buy

The Xpeng G6 earns a strong 4.2 out of 5 stars in our assessment. It’s a well-executed electric coupe-crossover that offers exceptional value, premium build quality, and cutting-edge charging technology. While driving dynamics need refinement, particularly the steering feel, the G6 represents an excellent value proposition for buyers seeking a practical, tech-forward electric SUV.

The Xpeng G6 UK is ideal for buyers seeking excellent value in the electric SUV segment. Those prioritizing ultra-fast charging capability will appreciate the 800V architecture and 5C charging capability. Families needing a spacious, practical electric vehicle will find the G6’s interior and cargo space more than adequate. Tech enthusiasts interested in advanced ADAS features will appreciate the comprehensive sensor suite and XNGP capabilities. Buyers comparing against the Tesla Model Y but wanting better value will find the G6’s pricing and feature set compelling.

Buyers prioritizing engaging steering feel and driving dynamics should consider the Tesla Model Y or other sportier alternatives. Those requiring maximum range in all conditions might prefer vehicles with larger batteries or superior efficiency. Buyers needing immediate availability should note that UK deliveries begin in Q1 2026, while some competitors are available now.

Conclusion

The Xpeng G6 represents a significant achievement for the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer. It successfully combines premium build quality, advanced technology, and ultra-fast charging at a price point that significantly undercuts established competitors. While driving dynamics need refinement, the overall package is compelling for value-conscious buyers.

For UK buyers entering the electric SUV market in 2026, the Xpeng G6 review landscape suggests a vehicle that deserves serious consideration. The combination of lower pricing, superior interior quality, faster charging, and comprehensive standard equipment makes it a genuine alternative to the Tesla Model Y and other established players.

The G6 isn’t perfect—the steering feel and driving dynamics need work, and the infotainment interface could be more intuitive. However, these shortcomings are outweighed by the vehicle’s strengths: exceptional value, premium build quality, cutting-edge charging technology, and comprehensive standard equipment.

As Xpeng continues to refine the G6 through software updates and future model years, it’s likely that the driving experience will improve. For now, buyers who prioritize value, interior quality, and charging speed over driving dynamics will find the G6 an excellent choice in the electric SUV market.