New UK-bound XPENG G6 to become fastest charging EV in segment

Boasting a new 800V Platform, XPENG’s refreshed G6 can charge from 10-80% in as little as 12 minutes. But is the rest of the facelift just as impressive?

We first sampled one of XPENG’s offerings back in 2023 at Sweden’s infamous Gotland Ring racetrack, and it’s fair to say we were impressed by the Chinese newcomer’s breadth of ability. Since then, though, the nascent brand has found a foothold in the UK market with its luxurious, all-electric crossover: the G6. However, after less than a year on sale in Britain, XPENG has already decided it needs a makeover. That’s where this (the shiny new model) comes in.

To start, there’s a refreshed aesthetic, which aims to look sleek and modern. To achieve this, XPENG has added a new, full-width Starlight LED light bar, body-coloured wheel arches to replace the previous black cladding, and a new rear spoiler to subtly enhance aerodynamics and the G6’s stance. Meanwhile, inside, the cabin adopts a fresh dark grey theme, complemented by new wood-grain dash trim and a suede-effect headliner. Plus, there’s also redesigned speaker covers and softer, more powerful wireless charging panels. 

None of which sounds particularly earth-shattering, right? Well, all the major upgrades are hidden behind the scenes. XPENG has reportedly made over 20,000 incremental tweaks to the G6, focusing on areas like chassis and suspension tuning, steering dynamics, and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels. The goal is to offer a more refined ride which, given the current state of UK roads, British buyers should appreciate.

But the new G6’s pièce de resistance is undoubtedly its upgraded battery tech. Utilising a new 80.8kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate battery, the new unit’s cell chemistry avoids precious metals like cobalt, nickel, and manganese, making it not only more sustainable, but more usable too. In fact, it can now achieve a peak charging power of 451kW. That means that if can find a charger powerful enough, topping up from 10% to 80% is possible in just 12 minutes. That’s the quickest time in the segment. 

It's also pretty rapid off the line. Opt for the all-wheel-drive Performance Black Edition and you get a formidable 480 bhp and 487 lb-ft to play with — which translates to an impressive 0-62 mph time of just 4.13 seconds. Plus, despite its size and weight — it’ll still carry 571 litres of luggage — it should offer an entertaining drive on twistier routes. Aiding these versatile driving dynamics, standard fit Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres offer a 15% increase in cornering stiffness, as well as a 20% reduction in perceived tyre noise. 

So, when can you expect to see the updated G6 in UK showrooms? Well, it’s expected to arrive during Q1 of 2026, with prices starting from £39,990 for the rear-wheel drive, Standard Range model, rising to £49,990 for the dual-motor AWD Performance Black Edition. And, with its blend of rapid charging, strong performance, and upgraded tech, we see no reason why it won’t be a hit with British buyers. 

But what do you think? Would you take XPENG’S G6 over legacy EV rivals like VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq iV?

Hero image credit:  XPENG