Another new name added to our motoring lexicon, another Chinese brand joins the
others vying for a space in our nation’s car parks, another mid-size C-segment full
electric is added to the temptation list of Irish buyers. The XPENG will be distributed
here by the astute folk in Motor Distributers Limited, (MDL), adding to their already
healthy menu of Mercedes-Benz, Smart and BYD.
Their first model on the forecourt is the G6 Coupe, a 4-door coupe SUV, which comes
in three model variants:
a ‘Standard’ range model and
a ‘Long Range’ model (both with rear-wheel drive)
a ‘Performance’ model (with permanent all-wheel drive), which will arrive in
Q3 of this year .
Both Standard and Long Range models are available now for customer
delivery. Models come on the market from €42,000 (Standard) and €49,440 (Long
Range) inclusive of all EV grants and incentives.
Sizing up the G6
The G6 Coupe is in the size sweet spot, its dimensions fitting the demand of many
buyers, being 4.75 meters long, 1.92 meters wide, and 1.65 meters high, with a
wheelbase of 2.89 meters. Luggage space is an accommodating 571-litres, which
increases to 1,374-litres with rear seats folded.
G6 Power
The Rear-wheel drive Standard and Long Range versions are powered by a single
rear-mounted electric motor. The G6 Standard Range models develop 190 kW/258
hp, and 440 Nm of torque, are powered by a 66kWh battery pack with a 435 km
WLTP driving range. Customers choosing the Long Range and all-wheel drive
Performance versions get larger 87.5kWh batteries, with a longer WLTP range of up
to 570kms on a full charge.
In addition, Performance units have the help of an additional electric front wheel
motor that boosts output to a combined 476 hp. Optional on all models is an
electrically deployable towbar with a towable capacity of 1,500 kgs.
Outside View
With its coupe-style silhouette, contoured bodywork, forward sloping bonnet, and
aerodynamic features, the G6 is easy on the eyes. You are also lured by the recessed
door handles, its discreet facia, sporty alloys and classy rear with full-width taillights,
and a self-closing boot.
Inside Story
What initially looks internally sparse is compensated by the G6’s wide windscreen,
touch coverings and padding, its unfussy dashboard, centre console, and rear seat
space.
Standard features present on every G6 include;
20-inch rims with Michelin tyres
Large panoramic glass roof
Multi-adjustable, heated and leatherette-covered seats all around
Ventilated front seats
Heated steering wheel
Four USB ports
Two 50W induction charging points for smartphones
A 960W audio system with 18 speakers, with an extensive library of music,
video, entertainment and social media apps.
Standard driver assistance and operating systems include;
blind-spot monitoring and parking assist
All-round camera coverage
360-degree radar
Numerous functions centralised on an operator-friendly touchscreen, all
augmented by a digital instrument panel and steering-wheel mounted
controls.
Other goodies include an infotainment system running on the latest XPENG's Xmart
OS operating system (with free over-the-air updates) and a standard heat pump to
improve electrical performance and driving range in winter.
Others to follow
The XPENG will be sold through XPENG South Dublin with a country-wide network
of dealers to follow. XPENG models set to arrive after the G6 Coupé SUV on to the
Irish market (on dates not yet arranged) are their flagship G9 SUV, their P7 Sedan,
and their P7+ Fastback Sedan, in all of which AI design and manufacturing
technology will continue to be a key aspect.