Let me begin this review with a ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ moment. You see, having a vehicle for a week is both a blessing and a curse, with the latter being more apparent with my Leapmotor C10 AWD experience. OWNERS, would invest the time, effort (albeit minimal) and expertise in developing full-on Leapmotor App immersement, and reap the benefits of having everything (from keyless door opening to cabin-temp priming and beyond). I didn’t go the whole hog and was therefore given the ‘tap the key card on the door mirror to lock and unlock’ plus a start up procedure that would infuriate a saint. So top tip – get the app! Now let’s get on with the review.
The electric SUV space is crowded, competitive, and increasingly tech‑obsessed, but every now and then a model arrives that cuts through the noise not by shouting, but by quietly outperforming expectations. The 2026 Leapmotor C10 AWD is exactly that vehicle. It’s the most powerful version of Leapmotor’s mid‑size family SUV, yet it wears none of the visual drama or performance‑focused branding you might expect. So if you’re expecting a pumped‑up body kit, big wings, or black‑out performance trim, think again.
The 2026 C10 AWD looks virtually identical to the standard rear‑drive model, right down to the soft lines, simple surfaces, and friendly, approachable face. There are no badges shouting about its 440kW output, no special wheels or stripes, and no aggressive tweaks to betray the performance lurking beneath.
Its proportions are textbook mid‑size SUV (4739mm long, 1900mm wide, and 1680mm tall) with a broad stance and confident presence, helped by 20‑inch wheels wrapped in 245/45R20 tyres. It doesn’t reinvent exterior design, but it doesn’t need to. This is a clean, well‑resolved shape designed to blend in rather than stand out, and its performance personality makes that even more appealing. Alright, so the rear has a Porsche-like look, but again, that’s across the range and not a performance model spec.
Step inside, and the C10 AWD builds on that understated exterior with a cabin that is minimalist but not austere. The premium‑leaning layout centres around a 14.6‑inch touchscreen and a crisp 10.25‑inch digital cluster, giving it a tech‑forward feel without overwhelming the driver.
Materials are solid for the price point, and there’s a reassuring sense of build quality, nothing feels flimsy or rushed. But the biggest win is space. With its long 2825mm wheelbase, the C10 offers generous rear legroom that comfortably accommodates adults, making it one of the most family‑friendly interiors in its class. Boot space is equally competitive, with 435 litres expanding to 1410 litres with the seats folded. It maybe worth highlighting that there is a lack of deep underfloor storage, but this is likely due to the AWD hardware, which you’ll be happy for the compromise.
For those ‘old-schoolers’ out there, the reliance on touchscreen‑based controls can frustrate. For example, basic functions such as the glovebox release and mirror adjustment require tapping through menus rather than using physical switches. Some buyers will love the clean aesthetic; others will miss conventional buttons.
While on the matter of the screen, Leapmotor continues to push its own operating system rather than offering Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The system itself is fast, visually clean, and includes native navigation and Spotify integration. But the lack of smartphone mirroring, combined with the reliance on screen‑based controls, means the infotainment experience may not suit everyone, especially those transitioning from European or Korean brands known for ultra‑refined HMI systems.
Under the skin, the C10 AWD is genuinely impressive. Where the standard rear‑drive model makes 160kW, the AWD variant adds a second motor up front for a massive combined output of 440kW and 720Nm. Those numbers were unthinkable for a mid‑size SUV at this price point just a few years ago.
Acceleration is borderline ferocious for a family EV, 0–100km/h in a claimed 4.0 seconds, more than three seconds faster than the rear‑drive version and close enough to Tesla’s Model Y Performance to keep things interesting. But what’s arguably more significant is the debut of Leapmotor’s new 800‑volt architecture paired with an 81.9kWh LFP battery. This allows more efficient high‑power delivery, lower heat generation and faster charging capability. Peak DC charging hits 180kW, with a 30–80% top‑up achievable in as little as 22 minutes. It’s not class‑leading, but at this price, it’s genuinely competitive.
WLTP range is listed at 437km, with energy consumption averaging 20.9kWh/100km—making it less efficient than some rivals, but still acceptable thanks to the big battery and robust charging performance.
How does it perform?
Despite its huge power figures, the C10 AWD remains a family SUV first and foremost. Leapmotor didn’t stiffen the suspension or chase sporty handling; instead, the tuning prioritises comfort and composure. The setup (MacPherson struts up front and a multi‑link rear) benefits from Stellantis development influence, delivering calm, compliant ride quality on New Zealand’s challenging roads. Coarse chip and broken surfaces are handled with maturity.
For me, the BIG thing is that the Traction is noticeably improved over the rear‑drive model, especially in the wet, where the dual‑motor system offers cleaner, more predictable power delivery. Acceleration is strong and smooth without overwhelming the front end. Yep, the understeer issue I had before has ben corrected.
But physics still apply. At over 2200kg, the C10 AWD is a heavy machine, and you’re always aware of its mass when pushing hard through corners. The steering remains light, filtered, and comfort‑oriented, not something for drivers seeking engagement. In short: it’s incredibly quick, but not a performance SUV in the traditional sense. But I don’t think it’s supposed to be a top performer – despite the numbers.
Software has been Leapmotor’s biggest challenge, and while the latest OTA updates have reduced intrusive alerts, they’ve introduced new quirks. Adaptive cruise control can feel abrupt at motorway speeds, and regeneration tuning can create an on‑off throttle sensation in sportier modes.
Leapmotor’s official WLTP range of 437km is backed by strong charging performance, meaning even long‑distance travellers shouldn’t experience anxiety. But with consumption sitting at over 20kWh/100km, owners who frequently tap into the 440kW output will likely see lower real‑world figures. Still, thanks to the 800‑volt system and quick DC charging capability, the C10 AWD remains road‑trip capable, even if not class‑leading in efficiency.
Tarmac Takeaway
At $64,990 plus on‑roads, the 2026 Leapmotor C10 AWD is a remarkable value proposition in New Zealand’s EV market. You get 440kW and 720Nm, 4.0‑second 0–100km/h, 81.9kWh LFP battery, 800‑volt architecture, Solid build quality, a spacious cabin and excellent comfort tuning. Yes, software quirks remain and yes, the lack of CarPlay/Android Auto is a sticking point.
Alas (I assume) no, this isn’t a sharp‑edged performance SUV. But it will thrill off the line and did I mention what superb value for money this is?
