The Leapmotor B10 (see specs) arrives as a disruptor within the price range electrical automobile phase, difficult the notion that affordability should come on the expense of high quality. With a beginning worth of simply 109,800 yuan (roughly 15,100 USD), it undercuts established rivals just like the BYD Dolphin and Volkswagen ID.3. Stellantis-backed Leapmotor claims it presents a compelling mixture of premium options, participating driving dynamics, and forward-thinking expertise.
Leapmotor proudly labels the B10 the “king of worth,” however does it actually ship on all fronts? Let’s go on an in depth take a look at drive with the B10 on this week’s Sunday China Drive and discover out for ourselves.
Exterior
The B10’s design philosophy leans into minimalist modernity, avoiding flashy gimmicks in favour of fresh, well-proportioned styling. The entrance finish options smooth, slender LED gentle bars stretching throughout the automobile’s width, giving it a futuristic but refined presence. On the rear, a full-width gentle strip ties the design collectively, whereas delicate sculpting alongside the physique panels provides a contact of dynamism.
Its compact dimensions (4,510 mm lengthy and a pair of,735mm wheelbase) supply respectable inside house. Together with a roof-mounted laser radar, neatly built-in with out disrupting the roofline, hints on the automobile’s superior driver-assistance capabilities—a uncommon function on this worth bracket.
Whereas the B10 might not break new floor in automotive design, its cohesive and mature aesthetic ensures it doesn’t appear like a cost-cutting compromise—a standard pitfall for price range EVs.
Inside
Step contained in the B10, and the primary impression is sudden refinement. Leapmotor has gone to nice lengths to raise the cabin past typical budget-car requirements, incorporating soft-touch supplies, metallic accents, and considerate particulars that create a stunning upscale atmosphere.
Some of the intriguing options is the modular dashboard on the passenger aspect, geared up with six customizable slots. Equipment like a fold-out desk for the entrance passenger, an arrogance mirror, or perhaps a GoPro mount, rework the house right into a cellular workstation or leisure hub. Nevertheless, questions stay about how these add-ons may have an effect on airbag deployment in a collision—a consideration Leapmotor might want to deal with.
Practicality is a robust swimsuit, with well-designed storage options all through the cabin. The cup holders function silicone grips to forestall rattling, whereas an built-in tissue field within the rear seat provides a considerate contact. The entrance seats fold fully flat, connecting them with the rear bench to create a makeshift lounging space—splendid for fast naps throughout charging stops.
Tech highlights embody a twin AI assistant system, permitting drivers to modify between Deepseek and Tongyi Qianwen language fashions for navigation, basic queries, and even lighthearted interactions like “fortune-telling”. The infotainment system, powered by a Snapdragon 8295 chip in increased trims, delivers clean efficiency, although the interface stays acquainted to current Leapmotor customers.
Nevertheless, the inside isn’t with out its compromises. The rear seats, whereas spacious, have a set backrest angle that will not swimsuit taller passengers on longer journeys. The wi-fi charging pad lacks fast-charging, and the one overhead gentle within the trunk can depart cargo areas poorly illuminated at night time.
Behind the Wheel
The place the B10 actually distinguishes itself is behind the wheel. In contrast to many price range EVs that prioritise effectivity over engagement, the B10 delivers a driving expertise that feels surprisingly refined.
Energy comes from a rear-mounted electrical motor producing 170 kW (228 hp), offering brisk acceleration that feels significantly full of life in sport mode. The 0-100 km/h dash takes round 7.5 seconds, making it one of many faster choices in its class.
The suspension setup—MacPherson struts on the entrance and a multi-link association on the rear—has been tuned for responsiveness reasonably than outright consolation. The result’s a automobile that feels keen in corners, with minimal physique roll and sharp turn-in. The damping is agency, lending the B10 a distinctly European character, although extra minor street imperfections can often transmit slight harshness into the cabin.
Refinement is one other sturdy level, with wind and street noise stored impressively low even at freeway speeds—efficient sound insulation regardless of utilizing budget-friendly Chaoyang tyres. The regenerative braking system presents a “sturdy” setting that permits for close to one-pedal driving with out the abruptness present in some rivals.
Leapmotor has additionally geared up the B10 with superior driver-assistance options, although full performance continues to be in growth. Freeway Help works properly for lane-keeping and adaptive cruise management, however the promised metropolis navigation (together with visitors gentle recognition) received’t arrive till a late 2025 over-the-air replace. Together with lidar and a Snapdragon Journey chip suggests sturdy future-proofing, however early adopters will want endurance.
Verdict
The Leapmotor B10 is a compelling proposition, mixing premium options, participating dynamics, and cutting-edge tech at a worth that undercuts almost all rivals. It’s not with out flaws—the rear seats may very well be extra accommodating, the wi-fi charging is gradual, and the totally autonomous driving suite continues to be within the works.
For 109,800 yuan (15,240 USD), it is among the most clever selections in at the moment’s market. When you’re keen to miss badge status in favour of real-world worth, the B10 could be probably the most rational EV buy of 2025. Ideally suited for The B10 is for tech-savvy patrons, city commuters, and anybody who refuses to equate affordability with compromise.
Keep tuned for subsequent week’s Sunday China Drive at Automobile Information China, the place you possibly can learn extra first-person evaluations of Chinese language vehicles.
