Leapmotor C10: Electric Escapism from China
Jean-Pierre Ndu
Some vehicles promise the future, and then there are those that bring it vividly to life from the very first drive. The Leapmotor C10 fits comfortably into the latter category. We took the wheel of this Chinese electric SUV with curiosity, only to be charmed by its serene and surprisingly intuitive driving experience. Represented by Stellantis in Belgium, Leapmotor ensures a reliable dealership and aftersales experience.
Discreet Elegance and Balanced Dimensions
The Leapmotor C10 doesn’t aim to stand out dramatically, but its understated elegance suits it perfectly. Measuring 4.73 meters in length, a generous 1.90 meters in width, and 1.68 meters in height, it blends seamlessly into urban landscapes while maintaining a robust profile. Flush door handles and alloy wheels up to 20 inches add a touch of refined simplicity. We particularly appreciate the rear design, featuring an elongated LED strip that gives it a subtle premium look without being ostentatious.
Interior: Refined Comfort
Inside, the cabin welcomes us with a minimalist yet warm ambiance. The large 14.6-inch central touchscreen immediately draws attention, consolidating all essential controls. While the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is slightly noticeable, the smoothness of the multimedia interface makes up for it. Electrically adjustable ergonomic seats provide excellent support, and the panoramic roof enhances the sense of spaciousness, bathing the interior in natural light. Rear space is generous, ideal for longer trips, although the trunk, at 435 liters, could have benefited from a bit more room to fully satisfy family needs.
Powertrain: Quiet Efficiency
The Leapmotor C10 features a rear-mounted electric motor generating 218 hp and delivering an instant torque of 320 Nm. This power proves more than sufficient for dynamic accelerations without ever feeling aggressive. The announced range of 420 km according to the WLTP cycle aligns with real-world mixed-use, thanks to controlled consumption around 15.5 kWh/100 km during our test. However, the charging capacity, capped at 84 kW, could deter those keen on extensive road trips.
Behind the Wheel: Zen Attitude
The real surprise is the driving experience itself: smooth, quiet, and intuitive. The C10 glides gracefully on the road, offering superb sound insulation and comfortably tuned suspension. The balance between comfort and precise handling is impressive, especially in the city, where the « one-pedal » driving mode excels, significantly simplifying driving while efficiently recovering braking energy. On open roads, the vehicle remains stable and reassuring, ideal for relaxed driving without compromising enjoyment.
Attractive Pricing in Belgium
Priced starting at €36,400 for the Style version and €37,900 for the Design trim, the Leapmotor C10 is competitively positioned against its European and American counterparts.
Conclusion: Intelligent Balance
The Leapmotor C10 proves to be an excellent choice for drivers prioritizing a relaxing and enjoyable driving experience. With its understated design, spacious and well-crafted interior, and realistic range, it effectively meets everyday needs. Despite a few limitations, particularly in rapid charging capabilities, the vehicle convincingly delivers overall comfort and exceptional value for money.
Pros:
- Overall comfort and excellent sound insulation
- Spacious and refined interior
- Very competitive value for money
Cons:
- Limited fast-charging capacity
- Limited multimedia compatibility (absence of CarPlay/Android Auto)
- Slightly restricted trunk space for its family-oriented purpose
