In just a few short years, upstart automakers like XPeng have emerged as serious global players, pushing established brands to innovate faster. The 2026 XPeng G6 facelift is a perfect example of this dizzying pace, returning with more than 20,000 small but important refinements, after being on the scene for just over a year.
This mid-size electric SUV challenges rivals like the Tesla Model Y by prioritizing exceptional comfort and truly groundbreaking charging speeds, while adding small but impactful tech upgrades. The result is a refined, value-focused EV that makes daily driving feel smooth and effortless.
The speed that matters
The heart of the G6’s updated technology is its 800V electrical architecture, which is a standard across the G6 line. Paired with a new 80.8 kWh LFP battery, this system achieves a remarkable peak charging power of 451 kW. XPeng claims the new G6 can boost its battery charge from 10% to 80% in just 12 minutes.
Sure, finding a public charger capable of delivering that full 451 kW will be a challenge in some markets, but the system’s ability to sustain high charging speeds means a typical stop on a 300 kW charger will still be incredibly brief. During our testing, the vehicle went from 50% to 80% charge in about six minutes.
This exceptional speed really boosts the long-distance experience. The switch to LFP batteries, also increases the battery’s lifespan by a claimed 30%.
A new focus on riding comfort
For the 2026 model, XPeng’s engineers heavily reworked the suspension system. The goal was simple: to make the G6 quieter and more comfortable than its predecessor. The facelifted G6 features softer suspension tuning and improved damping, which helps the car feel more settled on rough roads.
The new setup absorbs bumps better than the previous model and handles high-speed cruising excellently. The smooth and quiet ride contribute to the peaceful cabin environment – ideal if you are prioritizing a relaxing experience.
Handling is competent and controlled, and the low center of gravity provides a sure-footed feel, but there is some noticeable body roll in sharp turns. The steering, while precise enough for everyday driving, lacks the direct, highly engaging feel found in the Tesla Model Y.
Still, merging onto highways or overtaking is easy with no shortage of power, and the vehicle behaves as if it was much smaller and lighter than it actually is. Don’t let it fool you though – that mass comes calling the moment you stomp on the brakes. The G6 is composed at most times, and despite being soft, it’ll be very difficult to find an everyday situation that would upset its composure.
Performance and specs
The XPeng G6 comes with serious power, especially in the new AWD Performance Black Edition. The dual-motor model delivers 358 kW (480 horsepower) and 487 lb-ft of torque, allowing the electric SUV to sprint from a standstill to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds. The top-end Black Edition adds a visual punch with 20-inch black sport alloy wheels and smoked black trim, providing a more aggressive look.
If you are looking for efficiency, the new Long Range model has an official WLTP range of 332 miles. The G6 has a reasonable drag coefficient of 0.248 and measures 15.58 ft long, 6.3 ft wide, and 5.41 ft tall.
The short test drive wasn’t enough to establish the G6’s real-life efficiency, but it was enough to realize this is a powerful SUV. In fact, it delivers more performance than any family will ever need, unless your school run involves a quick lap of the Nurburgring. The car never feels underpowered; there’s always more than enough punch at your disposal, regardless of the speed you’re doing.
We are slowly getting used to seeing silly acceleration numbers in family cars, but nothing prepares you for an actual act. Having nearly 500 horsepower in a medium-sized family-focused electric SUV is simply overkill. It’s fun for those rare, acceleration bursts until you see the terror in your kids’ eyes. Not being careful with your right foot in the G6 is the fastest, and easiest way to fall out of favor with your mother-in-law too.
A high-quality interior
The XPeng G6 cabin reinforces its premium aspirations. The design is sleek and minimalist, centered around a large 14.96-inch touchscreen. Materials feel upscale throughout, with a suede-effect ceiling and new wood-grain dash trim giving the space a luxurious feel. The front seats are highly adjustable and feature heating, ventilation, and a massage function – details often reserved for much more expensive EVs.
The overall impression is that of a much, much more expensive vehicle. The materials at all touch points are impeccable. The cabin feels spacious and comfortable in that unique way that used to be reserved for high-end German brands.
Practicality is strong. The generous 9.48 ft wheelbase ensures five tall passengers can travel comfortably. The rear provides comfortable room for three adults, and with only two adults up it turns into a small living room. There’s plenty of cargo space with the trunk offering 20.2 ft³, and expanding to 48.5 ft³ when the rear seats are folded down.
The G6 is an excellent choice for a family SUV, though one omission is the lack of a ‘frunk’ or front storage area, a feature many competitors include. The infotainment system, running the latest XOS cockpit software, is fast and user-friendly, supporting an intelligent voice assistant that can control features across all four zones of the cabin.
Final takeaway
The 2026 XPeng G6 is a highly polished update that easily secures its place as a top-tier contender in the mid-size electric SUV market. It successfully balances value, technology, and comfort. While it may lack the outright sporty feel of some rivals, it more than compensates with its luxurious ride quality, excellent interior, and segment-leading charging speeds.
The price structure is competitive, starting in the UK at £39,990 on the road for the RWD Standard Range, moving up to £44,990 for the RWD Long Range, and topping out at £49,990 for the AWD Performance Black Edition when it arrives in the UK in February 2026.
