With the Zeekr 9X earmarked for Malaysia at an estimated price of RM700,000 to RM1,000,000, its smaller sibling, the Zeekr 8X, has now broken cover. On display at Auto China 2026, the Zeekr 8X could eventually make its way to our shores. If it arrives, it will complete a local lineup alongside the 7X and 9X, though its Malaysian debut remains a possibility for now.
The Zeekr 8X is no small SUV. It measures 5,100 mm long, 1,998 mm wide, and 1,780 mm tall with a 3,069 mm wheelbase. These dimensions make it larger than the 7X but slightly more compact than the flagship 9X, placing it in the same size bracket as the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
It shares a design language with the Zeekr 9X, though the execution here is refined by a more streamlined body. The signature split C-shaped headlights remain, featuring a design that reportedly houses over 80,000 facets. These flank a massive waterfall grille, while the rear is finished with a full-width C-shaped taillight.
The range-topping Yao Ying variant might give Cantonese speakers a chuckle, as the name sounds remarkably similar to the dialect’s word for “cool”. In Mandarin, however, Yao Ying translates to “Dazzling Shadow”. True to its namesake, this variant boasts blacked-out exterior elements, aggressive front and rear bumpers, and dark accents across the grille and alloy wheels.
Inside, the cabin can be configured as a two-row, five-seat configuration or a three-row, six-seat layout in a 2-2-2 arrangement. Luxurious amenities mirror those of the Zeekr 9X, which include standard open-pore wood trim with an optional upgrade to carbon fibre. The front and rear seats feature Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustability, and a massaging function as standard. Audiophiles will note the Naim sound system, which comprises a 29-speaker setup previously exclusive to Bentley.
RELATED: Ultra-luxury Zeekr 9X coming to Malaysia late 2026 – Est. RM700k to RM1 million
Tech-wise, the Zeekr 8X features a 13.02-inch instrument cluster paired with a massive 44-inch head-up display and a 16-inch 3.5K Mini-LED central infotainment screen. Optional upgrades include a passenger display and a 17-inch 3K OLED roof-mounted screen for those in the back. Beyond the screens, a myriad of sensors support the 8X’s ADAS features. In line with China’s regulations, these sensors activate a turquoise light on the exterior to signal when autonomous driving features are active.
Underpinning the Zeekr 8X is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain based on a 900V architecture, comprising a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 279 hp. As standard, this engine is paired with two traction motors that deliver 897 hp (660 kW) and 935 Nm. This combination enables the Zeekr 8X to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 220 km/h.
READ MORE: Zeekr Malaysia to launch 3 new models in 2026, including flagship Zeekr 9X, Zeekr X facelift
On the range-topping Yao Ying variant, the PHEV powertrain features a tri-motor setup, which bumps output to 1,400 hp (1,030 kW) and 1,410 Nm of torque. The result of these massive outputs is a century dash from a standstill in just 2.96 seconds and a slightly higher top speed of 230 km/h.
Two ternary lithium (NMC) battery packs are available in 55 kWh and 70 kWh capacities. The 55 kWh unit offers a pure EV range of 257 km and a combined range of 1,152 km. Opting for the 70 kWh pack increases the pure EV range to 328 km and the combined range to 1,205 km. However, the Yao Ying variant sacrifices some range to feed its horses, managing a pure EV range of 268 km and a combined range of 1,037 km from the same 70 kWh battery. All figures are based on the WLTC cycle.
Regardless of capacity, both battery packs support 6C charging. This means they can charge at six times their capacity when using a compatible DC charger, enabling a 20-80% recharge in nine minutes.
Could the Zeekr 8X make its way over to Malaysia? That remains a possibility, considering the Zeekr 9X has already been confirmed for a local debut. If the 8X does arrive, it would likely be priced lower than the estimated RM700,000 to RM1,000,000 commanded by its larger sibling. It would not be a cheap acquisition by any stretch, but perhaps this super-SUV will find its way to our roads in the future. Only time will tell.
ALSO READ: Malaysia will be the first country outside of China to locally assemble Zeekr models
GALLERY
