Xpeng launches the six-seat SUV GX, with ample trunk space even when fully loaded

【PCauto】Xpeng has unveiled its first flagship six-seater SUV, the GX. As with most six-seaters, ample space is a core selling point. However, Xpeng emphasises a key detail: practical boot space is retained even with all six seats occupied.

Xpeng points out that in many six-seater SUVs, when all seats are occupied, the trunk often cannot accommodate both a stroller and several suitcases, forcing a compromise between passenger comfort and cargo capacity.

To achieve more space, the Xpeng GX features a boxy body design and features a clamshell-style bonnet, a floating roof design, and hidden door handles. The overall styling leans towards a luxurious and imposing aesthetic, even evoking a Range Rover-like presence—a departure from Xpeng's typically more youthful designs.

Full interior and performance specifications have yet to be officially released, but they revealed that both pure electric and range-extended versions will be available. The range-extender variant is reported to offer a pure-electric range of 430 km and a total range of up to 1,400 km.

Built on the SEPA 3.0 architecture, the GX will leverage its capabilities to feature a combination of steer-by-wire (SbW) and rear-wheel steering. The primary aim of these technologies is to tackle a common issue with large SUVs: a sense of bulkiness and difficulty in manoeuvring.

Similar steer-by-wire technology debuted on the Infiniti Q50 in 2014. By eliminating mechanical connections, it isolates all road vibrations from the steering wheel.

However, this has led to criticisms of an overly artificial feel in the driving experience. This is because filtering out all road feedback can create a sensation akin to using a simulator, leaving the driver disconnected from the road and unable to sense through the steering wheel when the tires are approaching their limit. Early systems also faced issues with losing power assist in very cold conditions.

Now, it remains to be seen whether the Xpeng GX can resolve these issues. Xpeng has stated that steer-by-wire will feature multiple safety redundancies, so there’s no need to worry about electronic system failures.

The rear-wheel steering system allows the rear wheels to turn in coordination with the front wheels. At low speeds, they turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels, reducing the turning radius. This could enable a large vehicle like the Xpeng GX—expected to exceed 5.1 metres in length—to complete manoeuvres such as U-turns in residential areas or tight parking spots in one go. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, providing more stability when changing lanes or making evasive maneuvers.

Previously, Xpeng’s main flagship in the SUV market was the G9, and the GX is positioned above the G9. How to get users to accept the pricing of this brand-new flagship is a considerable challenge.

Meanwhile, the Xpeng X9 MPV has already established a strong reputation in the six-seat segment. The GX SUV is intended to complement the X9 rather than compete with it.

Their positioning underscores this distinction: the X9 prioritises maximum space and comfort, whereas the GX emphasises on-road dynamics and off-road ability, aiming at different user groups.

According to the official statement, the Xpeng GX will be launched in a few months, with an expected debut in Q2 and market arrival in the second half of the year.