385 km of real range and a well-crafted interior: this is how the Lepas L6 performs in its initial tests

The range of electric SUVs in Spain continues to expand, and one of the next models we’ll need to get to know is the Lepas L6 EV. This new brand from the Chery group enters the market to compete with big names like the Skoda Elroq and Kia EV3.

Early tests by international media reveal more than just its technical specifications. In this case, a report from Auto Express in China describes it as a comfortable car for leisurely driving with a well-crafted interior, though it still needs refinement in certain aspects of its handling.

The L6 is 4.57 meters long, 1.85 meters wide, and 1.67 meters tall, placing it among mid-size family SUVs. Its design has a sporty touch, but initial driving impressions suggest its priority is to offer a relaxed driving experience.

The tested version is equipped with a front-mounted engine producing around 160 kW (218 hp) and 275 Nm of torque, powered by a 65 kWh battery pack. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of approximately 179 km/h. These performance figures are sufficient for family use, eliminating the need for exceptionally high power outputs.

The WLTP range is 450 kilometers, while tests conducted by a British publication showed an equivalent range of about 385 kilometers. The difference is around 64 kilometers, which is approximately 14% below the stated figure.

It’s an interesting result, though it needs to be considered within its context. The test involved a combination of highways, secondary roads, and some urban sections, with warm temperatures that were favorable for the battery. This isn’t a measurement at a constant 120 km/h nor a winter test, so it doesn’t guarantee such range for highway driving in Spain.

In fast charging mode, the L6 supports up to 120 kW and claims 22 minutes to go from 30% to 80% charge. This isn’t an outstanding figure since it doesn’t provide the typical charging time from 10% or 20%, meaning waiting times at charging stations will be somewhat longer than expected.

According to the tester, at cruising speeds, the best handling sensations are experienced when driving smoothly. The car is comfortable on the good-quality asphalt of the roads in China used during testing. In urban areas, a light steering response, a short turning radius, and 360-degree cameras that facilitate maneuvering also help.

Criticism arises when the speed increases. The steering provides little feedback, and the body leans significantly in corners. The overall performance seems less refined than its exterior appearance might suggest. For those who place high value on steering precision, this will be one of the aspects to check during a test drive before purchasing it.

The regenerative braking also doesn’t fully convince. According to feedback received, it takes time to activate and often fails to provide the deceleration drivers expect—sometimes it’s excessive and other times insufficient. This is a significant aspect of an electric vehicle, as it directly affects the smoothness of daily driving.

The interior offers a much more favorable impression. Soft materials and a sense of quality stand out, with these qualities also present in the rear seats. The second row is very spacious, which is an important advantage for families that need to accommodate adult passengers frequently.

The model tested comes in the Elevate finish. It features leather upholstery, a Sony sound system with lighting, and heated and ventilated front seats. The latter feature can be particularly useful during the summer months in our country.

The 13.2-inch central screen responds quickly, but the menu layout isn’t always intuitive. Backgrounds generated by artificial intelligence add options for customization, though priority should be given to making it easier to access common functions. Visual presentation and usability don’t always progress at the same pace.

Thus, the first impression gives an offering with strong advantages for those seeking space, equipment, and comfort, along with several aspects that need further improvement.

A crucial piece of information remains unknown: the price in Europe. Without knowing it, it’s still too early to present it as a particularly affordable option. It also remains to be seen how its suspension performs on more damaged roads, and whether the units that arrive here come equipped with adjustments to the steering and regeneration systems.