Zeekr 7X Overtakes Tesla Model Y as Australia's Top Premium SUV

Key facts

• Zeekr 7X became Australia's best-selling premium SUV in April 2026.
• EVs reached a record 16.4% market share in Australia in April 2026.
• Zeekr 7X recorded over 1,000 deliveries and 2,500 new orders in April 2026.
• Chinese-built vehicles became Australia's largest source of new cars in February 2026.
• Zeekr 8X and 9X plug-in hybrid SUVs are slated for Australian launch within nine months.
• Zeekr 8X pricing is expected to be below $100,000.
• Zeekr 9X will target luxury SUVs like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS.
• Zeekr is the premium EV division of Chinese conglomerate Geely.

Market Disruption on Australian Shores

The Zeekr 7X has rapidly ascended to become Australia’s best-selling premium SUV, a remarkable feat achieved less than a year after the brand's local introduction in late 2025. This surge signals a profound shift in the Australian automotive landscape, where electric vehicles are gaining traction at an unprecedented pace. In April 2026, EVs captured a record 16.4% of the market share, demonstrating a robust upward trend that is reshaping consumer preferences and challenging long-standing market dynamics. The success of the Zeekr 7X, with over 1,000 deliveries and an additional 2,500 orders in a single month, has seen it eclipse the Tesla Model Y, a vehicle that concluded 2025 as the country's top seller. This development underscores the growing influence of Chinese manufacturers, who are increasingly offering premium-tier design, performance, and technology at price points previously unimaginable from European competitors. Concerns over EV adoption, such as charging infrastructure and range anxiety, appear to be diminishing as more compelling options enter the market. The influx of Chinese-made vehicles, which now constitute over 77% of Australia's battery-electric vehicle supply, is providing consumers with enhanced choices and driving down prices in a segment historically dominated by established players.

A New Contender Emerges from Geely

Zeekr, the premium electric vehicle marque of the Chinese automotive giant Geely, has made a significant impact since its Australian debut. Geely's extensive portfolio includes well-known brands such as Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus, providing a strong foundation for Zeekr's global ambitions. The brand's design ethos, cultivated at its Scandinavian hub in Gothenburg, Sweden, blends cutting-edge industrial design with an understanding of contemporary fashion and architecture. The striking design of the 7X model, often described as resembling a luxury product, has resonated strongly with the Australian market. Its specifications and aesthetic appeal are comparable to vehicles commanding six-figure price tags from European manufacturers, yet it enters the market at a more accessible level. This positioning allows Zeekr to compete directly in the premium segment, a challenging arena for any new entrant. The broader trend of Chinese automotive dominance in Australia is undeniable. In February 2026, vehicles manufactured in China surpassed Japan as the country's primary source of new cars, marking the first time this has occurred since 1998. The Zeekr 7X stands as a prominent symbol of this automotive realignment, indicating a potential future where Chinese brands lead the charge in sales volumes.

Upcoming Hybrid Offerings Expand Zeekr's Reach

Looking beyond its initial electric offerings, Zeekr is preparing to introduce its 8X and 9X plug-in hybrid SUVs to the Australian market within the next nine months. Zeekr International CEO Mars Chen confirmed that these two models will be launched sequentially, with one arriving by the end of 2026 and the other early in 2027. Neither the 8X nor the 9X will be available in fully electric configurations at launch. These new models will feature a range-extender hybrid powertrain, combining 55kWh or 77kWh batteries with multiple electric motors and a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. This setup is designed to deliver substantial power and extended driving range, catering to buyers in the premium SUV segments who may still have reservations about pure electric vehicles. The decision to focus on hybrid technology for these particular models aligns with Zeekr's strategy to appeal to a broader customer base. While right-hand drive production for these models is yet to commence, Zeekr is also considering prioritizing the launch of the 7GT electric wagon in Australia, as right-hand drive versions are already being produced for the UK market. The company has indicated that electric variants of the 8X and 9X could be developed in the future, but for now, the hybrid approach is deemed most suitable for the target demographic.

Pricing and Positioning of New Models

The Zeekr 8X is anticipated to be the more accessible of the two upcoming hybrid SUVs, with pricing expected to remain below the AUD $100,000 mark for its standard dual-motor 660kW variants. The Australian lineup may mirror the Chinese market's Max, Ultra, and Ultra+ grades, offering a choice of 55kWh or 70kWh battery packs. The performance-oriented tri-motor 1030kW Dawn flagship, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.96 seconds, is also under consideration for the Australian market. Utilizing the 7X's local pricing as a benchmark, the 8X is projected to fall between AUD $85,000 and $130,000, depending on the specific trim level and other factors. This entry point positions the 8X as a competitor to vehicles like the BMW X3 or Audi Q5, despite its 5100mm length, which brings it closer in size to the BMW X5 or Audi Q7. The larger 9X, approximately 139mm longer than the 8X, will serve as the flagship SUV. It is expected to command a price point starting above AUD $100,000, targeting premium large SUVs such as the BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Range Rover. Importantly, unlike the all-electric 7X, neither the 8X nor the 9X will qualify for Australia's Fringe Benefits Tax exemption for novated leases due to their plug-in hybrid nature.

Cybersecurity Concerns and Market Outlook

As Chinese automakers like Zeekr expand their presence in key international markets, questions regarding cybersecurity and data privacy have surfaced. Concerns have been raised about the potential for data collection and transmission from vehicles manufactured by Chinese companies, a topic that has drawn attention from regulators and consumers alike. Zeekr has publicly addressed these concerns, aiming to assure potential buyers of their commitment to data security and privacy standards. Despite these broader industry discussions, Zeekr's rapid ascent in Australia highlights the growing acceptance of Chinese automotive brands. The combination of competitive pricing, advanced technology, and appealing design has proven to be a potent formula for capturing market share. The brand's strategic expansion, with both electric and hybrid offerings, suggests a comprehensive approach to meeting diverse consumer needs. The future for Zeekr in Australia appears promising, with the brand poised to challenge established luxury marques across multiple segments. The success of the 7X and the upcoming launch of the 8X and 9X indicate a determined strategy to become a significant player in the Australian automotive market. The ongoing evolution of the EV landscape, coupled with the increasing competitiveness of Chinese manufacturers, suggests that the automotive industry is entering a new era of innovation and consumer choice.

The bottom line

• The Zeekr 7X has become Australia's leading premium SUV, surpassing the Tesla Model Y in April 2026.
• Chinese manufacturers now supply over 77% of Australia's battery-electric vehicles.
• Chinese-built cars became the largest source of new vehicles in Australia in February 2026, overtaking Japan.
• Zeekr will launch its 8X and 9X plug-in hybrid SUVs in Australia by early 2027.
• The 8X is expected to be priced under $100,000, targeting mid-size luxury SUVs.
• The 9X will be positioned as a flagship model, competing with large luxury SUVs like the BMW X7.