Key PointsZeekr 8X plug-in hybrid SUV planned for Australian launch in 2027First plug-in hybrid model from Zeekr for the local marketUp to 1030kW system output and sub-3-second 0–100km/h claimElectric-only range up to 410km (CLTC) with large battery optionsLarge luxury SUV expected to rival BMW X5 PHEV and Lexus RX450h+
Chinese premium EV brand Zeekr is preparing to introduce its first plug-in hybrid model in Australia, with the large Zeekr 8X SUV expected to arrive locally in 2027.
The upcoming model will expand the brand’s local lineup beyond pure electric vehicles, sitting above the mid-size 7X electric SUV currently sold in Australia.
A spokesperson for Zeekr Australia confirmed the company intends to bring the model here, though additional vehicles in its global portfolio remain under evaluation.
The 8X will join a growing range that already includes the X small electric SUV, the luxury 009 electric people mover, and the 7X mid-size SUV launched in 2025.
While full Australian specifications have yet to be confirmed, the 8X promises impressive performance and range figures, positioning it as a high-end electrified SUV alternative.
Performance, range and hybrid tech
Unlike Zeekr’s existing Australian models, which are fully electric, the 8X uses a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining petrol and electric power.
At its core is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 205kW, paired with either two or three electric motors depending on variant.
Key performance highlights include:
Up to three electric motorsSystem output up to 1030kW in high-performance “Dawn” variant0–100km/h in as little as 2.96 secondsDual-motor version producing up to 660kW
The SUV is offered with large battery options for extended electric driving.
55.1kWh battery70kWh battery
With the larger pack, Zeekr claims a combined driving range of up to 1416km (CLTC), while electric-only range is reported at up to 410km.
The vehicle also features a 900-volt electrical architecture, supporting ultra-fast charging technology.
▶️MORE: 2026 Zeekr 7X Black Special Edition: Price and Specs
Luxury cabin and flagship SUV size
The Zeekr 8X is positioned as a large premium SUV, measuring over five metres long and sitting above the brand’s 7X model.
Despite its size, the vehicle features two rows of seating, emphasising passenger comfort rather than maximum capacity.
Interior highlights16-inch 3.5K OLED central display13.02-inch digital instrument cluster44-inch augmented-reality head-up display29-speaker Naim Palace audio system17-inch OLED rear entertainment screenHeated, ventilated and massaging Nappa leather seats9.5L refrigerated/heated storage compartmentUp to 50 storage compartments
The high-performance Dawn version also adds Brembo six-piston front brakes, advanced air suspension and performance tyres.
▶️MORE: Zeekr 001 Tipped For Australian Launch
Zeekr 8X preliminary specificationsSpecificationZeekr 8XNotesVehicle typeLarge plug-in hybrid SUVTwo-row luxury SUVEngine2.0L turbo petrol205kWElectric motorsUp to threeVariant dependentMaximum system outputUp to 1030kWDawn performance variant0–100km/hAs quick as 2.96 secManufacturer claimBattery options55.1kWh / 70kWhPHEV battery packElectric-only rangeUp to 410km (CLTC)EstimatedCombined rangeUp to 1416km (CLTC)With 70kWh batteryCharging system900V architectureSupports ultra-fast chargingSuspensionDual-chamber air suspensionAdaptive dampingBrakesBrembo six-piston (Dawn)Performance variant
▶️MORE: 2025 Zeekr X Price and Specs: Compact Luxury SUV To Start From $56,900
Pricing
In Australia, the Zeekr 8X currently starts from 376,800 yuan (about A$78,600) in China, though Australian pricing has yet to be confirmed.
For context, the Zeekr 8X sits below the larger Zeekr 009 luxury people mover in the brand’s global lineup. In China, the 009 starts at 439,000 yuan (around A$91,600), while the Australian version is priced from $115,900 before on-road costs.
Given that positioning, the Zeekr 8X is expected to land somewhere below the 009 locally, though final pricing will likely be adjusted for the Australian market when the SUV launches, currently expected in 2027.
Zeekr 8X dimensionsMeasurementZeekr 8XLength5100 mmWidth1998 mmHeight1780 mmWheelbase3069 mmWhat this means for Australia’s EV and hybrid market
The planned arrival of the Zeekr 8X reflects a broader shift in Australia’s electrified vehicle market.
While battery electric vehicles are expanding rapidly, plug-in hybrids are gaining renewed attention as buyers look for longer range and flexibility during the transition away from petrol vehicles.
For emerging brands like Zeekr, introducing a PHEV could help attract customers who are not yet ready to fully commit to electric cars.
The model may also intensify competition in the premium electrified SUV segment, where it is likely to rival models such as:
BMW X5 xDrive50eLexus RX450h+
With extreme performance figures and a luxury-focused interior, the 8X could further highlight how Chinese manufacturers are pushing innovation in the electrified SUV market.
Add zecar as a preferred source on Google Search 🔍
