After two years of driving a Tesla Model Y, I thought I had the electric vehicle (EV) game all figured out. But when the opportunity came to spend four days behind the wheel of the Xpeng G6, a direct competitor to Tesla from China, I was curious—could this “Tesla killer” live up to the hype? Here’s what I discovered.
He thought he was rescuing a sheep—but it turned out to be something else
This bizarre French customer habit is driving shop owners crazy
A Familiar Yet Different Experience
Switching from my Tesla Model Y to the Xpeng G6 felt surprisingly seamless. Both vehicles follow similar design philosophies, so I immediately felt at home in the G6. The gear shifter, located on the right stalk, and the indicator functionality are almost identical to Tesla’s. Even the regenerative braking system is laid out similarly. Xpeng clearly studied Tesla’s approach and made thoughtful improvements along the way.
One of the standout features for me was the autonomous driving system. While it takes inspiration from Tesla’s Autopilot, Xpeng’s XPilot has a smoother experience when changing lanes. In Tesla’s system, Autopilot temporarily disengages when you activate the turn signal, but in the G6, XPilot keeps running seamlessly throughout the maneuver.
Interior: A Step Ahead
While the Tesla Model Y is known for its minimalist interior, the G6 offers a more premium feel. The materials used in the cabin are of higher quality, and the fit and finish are noticeably better. The G6’s front seats, for example, are ventilated—something Tesla doesn’t offer yet. These seats were especially comfortable during long drives, and the cabin was surprisingly quiet at highway speeds, thanks to enhanced soundproofing.
The G6 also features a 15-inch central display that resembles Tesla’s but is a bit less fluid. However, Xpeng wins points for including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which Tesla famously doesn’t offer. There’s also a driver’s display behind the steering wheel—though the resolution could be improved, it’s a nice touch compared to Tesla’s more basic setup.
A Tech Lover’s Playground
The G6’s infotainment system is a true tech enthusiast’s dream. It offers a wide range of apps, including Apple TV, YouTube, and TikTok, which are seamlessly integrated. Though many of these are optimized web apps, they perform well, providing a more versatile and customizable experience compared to Tesla’s more closed system.
That said, the voice assistant in the G6 is a weak point. While it’s functional, it struggles with basic commands, especially in English, and doesn’t quite measure up to Tesla’s or Google’s voice systems.
Driving: Comfort Over Thrills
When it comes to driving dynamics, the G6 leans more toward comfort rather than sporty performance. The suspension is softer than Tesla’s, absorbing road imperfections better and providing a smoother ride. The acceleration, even in Sport mode, feels less aggressive, which might appeal to families or those looking for a more relaxed driving experience.
Where the G6 really stands out, though, is in fast charging. Thanks to its 800V platform, it can charge incredibly fast, outperforming my Model Y in some scenarios. The charging curve is steady, and high power is sustained over a longer duration.
Parking Made Easy
One feature I loved about the G6 was its 360-degree camera system and automatic parking assistance. Despite its size, the G6 handled tight parking spots effortlessly. The camera visuals are sharp, and the system is intuitive, making parking a breeze. Tesla’s parking aids, on the other hand, felt basic in comparison.
Is the Xpeng G6 a Tesla Killer?
So, would I swap my Model Y for the G6? Not yet—but it’s close. The Xpeng G6 offers a compelling package with superior comfort, innovative features, and an impressive charging experience. However, concerns around after-sales support, resale value, and a few software quirks keep me from fully committing.
Xpeng has shown tremendous progress in the EV market, and while it’s not a “Tesla killer” just yet, it is a strong competitor. If the company can improve in certain areas and strengthen its presence in Europe, Tesla might want to start looking over its shoulder.
For now, the G6 is an exciting glimpse into the future of Chinese EVs, and it’s clear that the competition is heating up.
Similar Posts
- After 2 Years with a Tesla Model Y, I Spent 4 Days Driving an Xpeng G6—Here’s My Take
- After 2 years in a Tesla Model Y, I spent 4 days in an Xpeng G6 and here’s what I think
- After 2 years with a Tesla Model Y, what really surprised me about the Xpeng G6
- I Drove a Tesla Model Y for a Year and 30,000 Kilometers—Here’s How Much It Cost Compared to Gas Cars
- I drove a Tesla Model Y for a year and 30,000 kilometers—here’s how the costs compare to gas cars
Felix Marlowe manages Belles and Gals’ vibrant social media platforms. With expertise in social engagement and viral marketing, Felix creates content that sparks conversation and keeps followers coming back for more. From celebrity news to trending challenges, Felix makes sure our social media stays at the forefront of pop culture.
