Leapmotor B03X: The Small Electric SUV That Makes Sense for London

Leapmotor has entered the UK's growing market for small electric SUVs with the new B03X. Priced at £26,995, this B-segment electric SUV emphasizes technology, space, and value over raw performance. Backed by automotive giant Stellantis, Leapmotor aims to compete with well-established brands like Renault, Ford, Kia, and others in the small EV segment.

During its international media launch in Andalusia, Spain, motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay tested the B03X to determine if it offers genuine worth and character beyond its budget-friendly price tag.

The B03X is designed to suit city living, with a length of 4.27 meters making it ideal for London's tight spaces. Its tall seating position and tight 10-meter turning circle make parking in busy locations a breeze. Inside, the cabin is spacious and premium-looking, thanks to a low dashboard, ample legroom, and headroom. Soft-touch materials and ambient lighting contribute to a high-end feel, and features like a heated steering wheel and seats add value in the UK climate.

Technologically, the B03X boasts a 14.6-inch touchscreen and 8.8-inch digital driver's display, paired with Leapmotor's intuitive operating system. The car also offers practicality with a boot capacity of 405 liters and 33 storage compartments throughout. While the single electric motor produces 197PS, resulting in an 8.6-second 0-62mph acceleration, the suspension is soft and can roll slightly through corners.

Despite this, the ride remains comfortable for urban driving. In summary, the Leapmotor B03X seems to strike a balance between comfort, practicality, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the UK's competitive small electric SUV market.