Neta X Review

Recently, the options in Malaysia's C-segment electric vehicle market have been growing, but models priced around RM 120,000 often make compromises in terms of features. The 2024 Neta X 400 Comfort, as the entry-level variant in the series, is priced at RM119,888 and claims to come standard with six airbags, electric seats, and a 360-degree panoramic camera. This has piqued the curiosity of many budget-conscious family users – can it really strike a balance between cost-efficiency and practicality? This time we got the actual car to test its static experience and dynamic performance to see if the entry-level version is worth purchasing for daily family use.

From a distance, the Neta X 400 Comfort features a design that leans towards stability, without overly aggressive lines. The front adopts a closed grille design paired with through-type LED daytime running lights. The light groups extend to the fenders on both ends, providing good visual recognition. The trapezoidal air intake at the lower front bumper is complemented by black decorations on both sides, adding a touch of sportiness. The side profile of the car has smooth lines, and the 18-inch alloy wheels feature a multi-spoke design. The tire size is 225/60 R18, suitable for everyday urban conditions. At the rear, the LED taillights also feature a through-type design, aligning with the front-end styling. A silver guard plate decorates the lower edge of the rear bumper, giving the car a cohesive overall look. Regarding the lighting system, LED headlights and taillights come as standard, and the automatic headlight function can switch automatically when entering or exiting tunnels, making it highly practical.

Opening the door, the interior features black as the main color tone. The central console is covered in soft-touch materials, which feel pleasant to the touch. A 15.6-inch touchscreen serves as the visual centerpiece of the interior. The screen can rotate, and its system has a straightforward operating logic, making frequently used functions such as navigation and Bluetooth connection easy to access. The multifunction steering wheel supports volume adjustment and call answering, with media control buttons on the left side as well. In terms of configuration, the front driver and passenger seats are both six-way electrically adjustable, with smooth adjustment mechanisms that allow users to quickly find a comfortable driving position. Rear air conditioning vents and USB ports come as standard features, ensuring passenger comfort during long rides. In terms of space, the car's wheelbase is 2770mm. When a 175 cm tall passenger adjusts the front seat, there remains a fist's worth of headroom. Similarly, for the back row, a passenger of the same height enjoys two fists of legroom and one fist of headroom, making it comfortable even for three occupants in the back. The trunk has a capacity of 508 liters, leaving additional space after accommodating two 28-inch suitcases, and the rear seats can be folded down in a 60:40 split to handle longer items when needed.

The Neta X 400 Comfort is equipped with a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering a maximum power of 120kW (163PS) and maximum torque of 210Nm. According to the manufacturer, it accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.5 seconds. During actual driving, its power response is swift during the initial acceleration phase, providing a decent push-back feel with a light press of the accelerator, which is suitable for city stop-and-go traffic. At low to medium speeds, the power output is linear, and when overtaking, stepping on the accelerator delivers torque quickly and ensures smooth speed increase. Two driving modes are available: Eco and Sport. In Eco mode, the power delivery is milder, making it suitable for daily commuting, while in Sport mode, the throttle becomes more sensitive, ideal for scenarios requiring rapid acceleration. The chassis features a front MacPherson independent suspension and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort. When passing over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension effectively absorbs most shocks, and passengers inside the car won't feel significant jolts. The steering wheel offers moderate resistance with precise directionality, and it becomes heavier during high-speed driving to enhance stability.

This test focused on range and power consumption. The official range is 401km, and during actual urban driving with air conditioning and music on, the range achieved was about 85%, leaving 10% battery after 340km, with power consumption around 15kWh/100km, aligning with the standards of similar electric vehicles. In fast charge mode, the battery can go from 30% to 80% in 30 minutes, making it suitable for long-distance charging; slow charging takes 9 hours, ideal for overnight home charging. Regarding noise control, the car interior is quiet at speeds below 60km/h, with little tire and wind noise; at 110km/h on highways, wind noise increases but does not affect normal conversations. The seat wrapping is good, and the lower back remains comfortable during long drives, reflecting overall comfort suitable for family use.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2024 Neta X 400 Comfort lies in its value for money. Compared to entry-level electric vehicles in the same segment, it comes with electric seats, 360-degree panoramic imaging, and 6 airbags as standard at the 120,000 MYR price range, with no obvious shortcomings in configuration. Its dynamic performance leans towards comfort, making it suitable for daily urban commuting and family outings. However, its cruise control is only a standard constant speed cruise system, lacking the intelligence of the ACC adaptive cruise control available in higher trims, and its range is shorter than the 500km version.

This model is suitable for family users who value practicality and cost-effectiveness, especially those with daily commuting distances within 50km and home charging options. Its space is sufficient to meet the needs of a family of four, the configuration covers daily usage scenarios, and the price is within budget. If you do not need long range and advanced driving assistance features, the 400 Comfort version can fully meet the requirements of daily family use, making it a well-rounded choice.