Zeekr 7GT: A New Challenger in the Australian Market
Zeekr has carved out a niche for itself with its range of premium performance SUVs that are aggressively priced. The 7X, along with the upcoming 8X and 9X, have generated significant interest. However, this Chinese brand is aiming higher than just undercutting established premium brands on the SUV front. It wants to capture the attention of die-hard enthusiasts with its upcoming fully electric 7GT wagon.
This new sporty station wagon is set to target models like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi S5 in 2026. But does this Euro-flavoured Chinese wagon have what it takes to impress? We had a brief opportunity to drive one in China to find out.
What Do We Know About the 7GT for Australia?
Recent comments from Frank Li, the head of Zeekr’s Australian division, suggest that the 7GT may arrive in late 2026 or early 2027. While the 9X flagship SUV is expected before the end of 2026, the 7GT’s timeline remains uncertain.
Interestingly, the 7GT (known as the 007GT in China) has a sedan variant (simply the 007 in its home market). However, the brand hasn’t revealed much about it, suggesting that the 7GT will be a wagon-only offering in Australia.
Pricing and Competition
The 7GT starts at around A$42,000 in China, with top-end variants reaching up to A$52,000. This suggests a potential price range of A$55,000 to $70,000 in Australia.
In terms of competition, the 7GT could position itself between mainstream wagon offerings like the Skoda Octavia (from $66,000), Subaru WRX (from $58,490), and Cupra Leon (from $69,990). It also aims to challenge premium wagons such as the BMW 3 Series (from $98,800), Audi A5 (from $92,900), and Genesis G70 (from $80,265).
Powertrain Options and Performance
The 7GT offers two powertrain options in China: a rear-wheel-drive version with 370kW/545Nm and a 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.8 seconds, and an all-wheel drive version with 585kW/812Nm and a 0-100km/h sprint time of 2.85 seconds—faster than a Porsche Taycan Turbo.
The entry-level version of the 7GT is powered by a 75kWh battery pack, offering up to 702km of driving range, while a larger 103kWh battery pack provides up to 880km of driving range (both calculated using the CLTC standard).
Charging and Design
With a 900-volt electrical architecture, the 7GT can charge ultra fast, reaching 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 10 minutes on a compatible DC charger.
Designed in Europe at Geely’s Gothenburg, Sweden, the 7GT features European proportions, including a split spoiler and a ducktail shaping the boot line. However, Australian Design Rules will prevent the use of animated DRL clusters above the headlight strip, similar to the 7X.
Interior and Comfort
Sitting in the 7GT feels like being in a Volvo or a Polestar—two other Geely-owned brands. The interior materials and cabin ergonomics are impressive, setting Zeekr apart from many of its Chinese rivals. The 7GT sits low with a rising console platform and a large central touchscreen.
There is also a control dial and a few shortcut buttons below, which are not commonly found in many of this car’s Chinese rivals. Space is good in both the front and rear seats, and the 7GT has a surprisingly large boot despite its coupe-like roofline.
Driving Experience
Although we only had a brief chance to drive the 7GT on a small test circuit in a car park in China, we also had the opportunity to drive the sedan version, the 007, on Geely’s actual racing track in Ningbo. This provided some insight into its performance and limitations.
Predictably, the 7GT is blisteringly fast, offering silent and brutal acceleration similar to a Tesla. However, when turning corners, the Euro flavour of the Zeekr sets it apart, with steering that feels more natural, akin to a Volvo or Polestar rather than the lifeless feel of some EVs.
Suspension and Weight Considerations
Judging the suspension was challenging due to the flat tarmac surfaces used during the test. However, the 7GT feels slick when attacking corners and chicanes, riding lower than its SUV siblings.
One of the biggest challenges for electric vehicles is weight. While the 7GT hides this well at commuter speeds, track sessions in the 007 were frequently slowed down after only a few laps to manage brake heat. This is worth considering if you’re looking for a family car that also excels on the track.
Verdict
Sleek, European-flavoured, and targeting enthusiasts directly, the 7GT looks to be a unique offering when it arrives in Australia in late 2026 or early 2027. It promises great value, but whether it can breathe life into the wagon segment or convince long-time enthusiasts remains to be seen.
