Road Test by Howard Ritchie, Cars Uncovered
The electric vehicle market has no shortage of ambitious newcomers, but few have generated as much interest as XPeng. In this latest road test, Howard Ritchie from Cars Uncovered puts the new XPeng G6 through its paces to discover whether the Chinese-built electric SUV can genuinely challenge Tesla’s dominance—or whether there’s still work to do before it reaches the top of the EV ladder.
With cutting-edge technology, ultra-fast charging, impressive range figures and a premium cabin, the G6 certainly arrives with all the right ingredients. The real question is whether those specifications translate into a better ownership and driving experience in everyday conditions.
At a Glance
| Model Tested | XPeng G6 |
| Body Style | Five-door electric SUV |
| Powertrain | Fully electric |
| Key Rivals | Tesla Model Y, Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV6, Polestar 4, BYD Sealion 7 |
| Highlights | Premium interior, exceptional charging speeds, refined ride, advanced driver assistance technology |
| Watch Out For | Some over-complicated software features and mixed audio performance |
First Impressions
XPeng has made no secret of its intention to take on Tesla head-on, and the G6 immediately feels like a serious contender rather than simply another budget EV from China.
The styling is clean and modern without being overly dramatic, while inside there’s an unmistakable emphasis on quality, technology and comfort. Materials throughout the cabin feel more premium than many buyers may expect from a relatively new manufacturer, creating an environment that feels genuinely upmarket.
Rather than trying to reinvent the electric SUV, XPeng has concentrated on refining the ownership experience.
YOU CAN WATCH HOWARD RITCHIE ROAD TEST REPORT VIDEO BELOW…
Driving Experience
One of the biggest surprises during Howard Ritchie’s test is just how comfortable the G6 feels on British roads.
Where some rivals prioritise sporty handling, the XPeng instead delivers a calmer, more relaxed driving character. Suspension tuning absorbs broken road surfaces with confidence, making longer journeys noticeably more comfortable without sacrificing stability.
Noise suppression is another strong point, helping the cabin remain impressively quiet at motorway speeds.
The steering is predictable and easy to live with, while the advanced driver assistance systems operate smoothly, providing reassurance without feeling intrusive.
10 Areas Where the XPeng G6 Impresses
During the review, Howard identifies several areas where the XPeng arguably has the edge over a recent Tesla, including:
- Superior cabin quality and materials
- More comfortable ride quality
- Refined motorway cruising
- Highly capable driver assistance systems
- Extremely rapid charging capability
- Comprehensive in-car technology
- Well-developed smartphone app integration
- Comfortable seating for long journeys
- Premium feel throughout the cabin
- Excellent overall refinement
These strengths demonstrate just how rapidly Chinese manufacturers have advanced over the past few years.
Technology & Interior
Technology is clearly one of XPeng’s strongest selling points.
The infotainment system is responsive and packed with features, while connectivity options are extensive. Smartphone integration and remote app functionality are particularly impressive, offering owners a level of control that rivals many established premium brands.
However, Howard also points out that not every technological feature feels entirely necessary. Some functions appear to have been included simply because they could be, rather than because they genuinely improve the driving experience.
The user interface occasionally prioritises novelty over simplicity.
YOU CAN WATCH CARS-UNCOVERED ROAD TEST VIDEO BELOW…
Charging & Efficiency
Charging performance is one of the G6’s standout achievements.
When connected to suitable high-powered charging infrastructure, the vehicle can replenish its battery remarkably quickly, making long-distance travel considerably easier.
Combined with competitive range figures, the G6 demonstrates that XPeng has invested heavily in one of the areas that matters most to electric vehicle buyers.
Where Tesla Still Holds an Advantage
Although the G6 impresses throughout much of the test, Howard is careful not to suggest it outclasses Tesla in every area.
Some software design decisions feel unnecessarily complicated, while certain features border on gimmicky rather than genuinely useful.
The audio system—despite receiving widespread praise elsewhere—also fails to leave a lasting impression during this particular test.
As Howard notes, while the XPeng may outperform Tesla in several areas, there are equally aspects where Tesla continues to set the benchmark.
Practicality
The G6 combines SUV practicality with an uncluttered interior design, offering generous passenger accommodation and a comfortable driving position.
Storage solutions are well thought out, visibility is good, and the relaxed driving experience makes it particularly appealing for everyday commuting as well as longer family journeys.
Motoring Echo Verdict
The XPeng G6 proves that China’s newest generation of electric vehicles has moved far beyond simply offering value for money.
Instead, it delivers genuine premium quality, impressive engineering and advanced technology wrapped inside an attractive, comfortable SUV that deserves to be considered alongside the class leaders.
Howard Ritchie’s road test highlights just how close XPeng has come to challenging Tesla in areas where it once enjoyed a clear advantage. While there remain a handful of software quirks and a few features that feel over-engineered, these are relatively minor criticisms in what is otherwise a highly accomplished package.
For buyers considering a Tesla Model Y or exploring the latest electric SUV market, the XPeng G6 deserves a place firmly on the shortlist.
Motoring Echo Top Tips
Considering the XPeng G6? Keep these points in mind:
- Compare real-world charging speeds, not just official figures.
- Test the driver assistance systems during your own test drive to see how they suit your driving style.
- Explore the companion smartphone app before buying, as it forms a significant part of the ownership experience.
- Don’t assume Tesla is automatically the benchmark—today’s Chinese EV manufacturers are closing the gap faster than ever.
- If ride comfort is a priority, the G6 should be high on your list of electric SUVs to experience before making a decision.
