The automotive landscape in the UK is witnessing a significant shift with the arrival of the Leapmotor B10, a compact electric SUV that challenges established rivals with aggressive pricing and impressive specifications. Starting from just £29,995 after incentives, this Chinese-made vehicle undercuts competitors like the Skoda Elroq by approximately £2,000, while boasting a longer range and more standard features.
Competitive Pricing and Range Advantage
Priced at £29,995 following a £1,500 'Leap-Grant' incentive, the Leapmotor B10 represents a compelling value proposition in the burgeoning electric vehicle market. Equipped with a 67.1kWh battery, it delivers an estimated range of 270 miles on a single charge. In comparison, the Skoda Elroq starts from nearly £32,000 for a variant with a 233-mile range, meaning buyers would need to spend over £33,500 to match the B10's mileage capabilities.
Generous Standard Equipment
Unlike many competitors that offer multiple trim levels, the UK market receives the flagship variant of the B10 as standard. This approach ensures that all buyers benefit from a fully loaded specification without additional costs. Key features include 18-inch alloy wheels, electrically heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a heat pump for efficient climate control, and an electric tailgate.
The interior is dominated by a 14.6-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and popular applications such as Amazon, Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, YouTube, and TikTok. While the materials may not reach premium standards, the cabin features soft-touch surfaces in key areas and demonstrates solid construction with precise panel alignment.
Driving Dynamics and Comfort
With 215 horsepower and a 0-62mph acceleration time of 8.0 seconds, the B10 provides adequate performance for daily driving. The suspension is tuned for comfort, resulting in a cushioned ride that absorbs road imperfections effectively. However, this soft setup can lead to noticeable body roll during cornering, which might not appeal to enthusiastic drivers.
Road and wind noise are well-contained, contributing to a quiet cabin environment at both city and motorway speeds. The driving position offers good visibility, enhanced by generous side glazing, while the inclusion of a colour display behind the steering wheel complements the central touchscreen for improved usability.
Improvements Over Predecessor
Leapmotor has addressed criticisms from its earlier C10 model, which received a modest 2.5-star rating. The B10 demonstrates significant enhancements, particularly in tyre quality and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). UK models now feature upgraded Nexen tyres that provide better grip on slippery surfaces compared to the budget Chinese tyres used previously.
The ADAS system has been refined to be more Britain-friendly, though some users might find the emergency lane-keep assist intrusive. Deactivating this feature requires navigating through menu settings each time the vehicle is started, an area where Leapmotor could improve through future software updates.
Practicality and Efficiency
The B10 offers substantial interior space, with ample legroom for rear passengers and a bright atmosphere created by the panoramic roof. Boot capacity measures 430 litres, supplemented by a 25-litre front trunk (frunk) for additional storage. During testing in cold, damp conditions, the vehicle achieved an efficiency rating of 3.7 miles per kWh, indicating respectable real-world performance.
Verdict and Market Position
Earning a 3.5-star rating, the Leapmotor B10 represents a significant improvement over its predecessor and establishes itself as a credible alternative in the competitive compact SUV segment. While it may not deliver driving thrills, it offers dependable electric motoring with comprehensive support including a four-year warranty and roadside assistance.
This launch underscores the growing influence of Chinese manufacturers in the UK automotive market, providing consumers with more affordable options without compromising on essential features. As electric vehicle adoption continues to accelerate, the B10 positions Leapmotor as a brand worth watching for future developments.
