The Leapmotor C16 is a mid-to-large-sized six-seater SUV that has just been labeled a "New Car." It's a representative work of Leapmotor, combining "LiDAR + advanced intelligent driving" with a "5290L interior volume" in the 150,000 RMB price range. Measuring 4915×1905×1770mm and with a 2825mm wheelbase, it's half a size larger than other new energy SUVs in the same price range, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.268. Frameless doors and a continuous daytime running light give it a more energetic look than a used Volkswagen Tiguan and a more agile appearance than a boxy commercial light commercial vehicle, allowing for easy U-turns in underground parking garages.
The interior boasts a "5290L cubic space," seamlessly blending luxury and practicality: a dual-screen setup consists of a 14.6-inch 2.5K floating screen and a 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster, supported by a Qualcomm 8295P chip and Leapmotor OS, enabling four-zone voice control, a transparent chassis view, and full-vehicle FOTA updates. Heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats are standard across the range, while the second-row independent seats feature electric leg rests. The rear seatbacks are adjustable and can be folded down in a 40/60 split, creating a completely flat floor, ensuring comfort for six passengers on long journeys. The trunk has a standard capacity of 209L, expanding to a maximum of 1022L with the seats folded down. Skis and carry-on suitcases can be placed flat, offering a more organized space than other new energy SUVs in the same price range, with the battery not encroaching on the floor.
The vehicle offers two powertrain options: a pure electric version with a 215kW rear-mounted motor, achieving 0-100km/h in 6.37 seconds, a CLTC range of 520km, and a 30%-80% capacity boost in 18 minutes using an 800V platform. The range-extended version features a 1.5L range extender and a 170kW motor, offering a pure electric range of 200km and a combined range of 1095km. Fuel consumption is 5.4L/100km when the battery is depleted, requiring only 92-octane gasoline. The rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration combined with the CTC2.0 integrated chassis provides greater stability at high speeds compared to pure electric new energy vehicles, and offers a more exhilarating acceleration experience than traditional naturally aspirated engines.
The annual maintenance cost is approximately 1,000 RMB, half that of a used gasoline-powered car. Compared to commercial MPVs, it has a shorter body for easier parking; compared to older used models, the new car adds lidar and a rear entertainment screen; compared to other pure electric vehicles in its class, it offers a 520km range, six seats, and advanced intelligent driving features at a price around 150,000 RMB, making it suitable for city commuting, long-distance road trips, and overnight camping—all in one vehicle, subtly showcasing "six seats and lidar accessibility" as a form of understated luxury.
