The following article was produced in partnership with Leapmotor
Leapmotor — you’d be forgiven for not knowing the brand, but thanks to the savvy C10 that’s about to change…
Fresh brands and battery-electric SUVs are the auto industry’s new black. For decades start-ups weren’t a thing in the wheeled world. Oh, how that’s changed.
So, in Australia’s increasingly crowded electric vehicle market, a newcomer needs more than a pretty face to stand out. That’s where Leapmotor is making a compelling case for itself with the all-new C10 mid-sized SUV.
Backed by automotive powerhouse Stellantis (the group behind icons like Maserati, Peugeot, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo), this stylish, family-friendly electric SUV combines European design with cutting-edge technology — all at a competitive price point.
After checking the C10’s spec sheet and experiencing it first-hand, we’re convinced this electric newcomer deserves a spot on your shortlist. Here’s why.
1. A Proper Looker That Turns Heads
The Leapmotor C10 isn’t just another cookie-cutter electric SUV. With clean lines, distinctive LED lighting signatures, and thoughtful proportions, the C10 makes a statement without shouting. Designed in Europe, the C10 earned initial recognition with a 2024 French Design Award, and it’s easy to see why.
A range of colours including Pearl White, Terra Grey, Jade Green, Midnight Grey, and Metallic Black, deliver a level of external sophistication. Leapmotor’s interior designers have ensured the C10’s cabin complements its exterior with two interior colour options — a warm Camel Brown or dynamic Black.
The cabin itself blends minimalist design with premium materials. The C10’s Design trim level features soft-touch surfaces and super comfortable OEKO-TEX-certified silicone leather seats.
2. Tech-Forward Experience That Impresses
When it comes to technology, the Leapmotor C10 punches well above its weight. The cabin’s focus is a massive 14.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen, which is complemented by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Both are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip — the same processor you’d find in a premium smartphone.
The infotainment system supports over-the-air updates to ensure your C10 stays current throughout ownership. While the absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a unique approach, the native system offers satellite navigation, online music and video streaming, and dual-zone voice control.
And if music quality matters to you, a 12-speaker surround sound system comes standard. Useful tech like wireless phone charging, Bluetooth and NFC key functionality, and V2L capability (to power small appliances) round out the C10’s smart package.
3. Family-Friendly Space and Versatility
Don’t let the stylish lines deceive; the C10 provides generous space — enough for Australian families. The 2825mm wheelbase translates to great legroom, particularly in the second row, while the flat floor enhances the sense of spaciousness.
Cargo capacity ranges from 581 litres behind the second row to 1410 litres with seats folded in the BEV version (slightly less in the plug-in REEV variant at 546/1375 litres).
Leapmotor’s designers have clearly set out to impress those inside as much as out. There’s a massive fixed panoramic glass roof that floods the cabin with natural light. An electric sunshade is tailor-made for Aussies – and something many brands forget.
The Design variant of the C10 takes comfort levels even further with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power tailgate and multi-colour ambient lighting. And yes, that can even be tuned to pulse in rhythm with your music.
4. Impressive Safety Credentials
Safety is paramount for all cars, but it is especially important when choosing an EV for family use. In this area, the Leapmotor C10 does not compromise. A 5-star ANCAP safety rating for BEV models headlines the act, and the comprehensive LEAP Pilot driver assistance system includes 17 advanced functions, ranging from adaptive cruise control and lane centring to autonomous emergency braking and blind spot detection.
Other safety features include a 360-degree camera with dynamic guidelines, rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, and multiple airbags, including a centre airbag. This is standard across all variants and provides front-seat occupants added protection in side-impact crashes.
5. Powertrain Choices to Suit Your Lifestyle
The Leapmotor C10 offers two distinct powertrain options to accommodate different driving needs. The battery electric version delivers 160kW of power and 320Nm of torque, with a WLTP range of 420km from its 69.9kWh Lithium Ferro-Phosphate battery. It achieves 0-100km/h in a spritely 7.5 sec.
Just announced as part of the Leapmotor C10 range is the REEV variant. Standing for Range Extender Electric Vehicle, the new C10 choice combines a smaller 28.4kWh battery with a 1.5-litre petrol engine. This configuration offers up to 170km of pure electric driving, extending to a combined range of approximately 1150km (NEDC) — perfect for long Australian road trips.
Both BEV and REEV C10 variants support DC fast charging, with the former capable of charging from 30-80% in approximately 30 minutes.
6. Competitive Pricing and Ownership Experience
While delivering premium features and technology, the Leapmotor C10 maintains competitive pricing. Available in both Style and Design trims, the C10 starts from $43,888 for the REEV Style with the range-topping BEV Design priced from $49,888.
Even sharper is the introductory driveaway offer on the REEV line-up from $45,900 driveaway.
From Model Year 2025, Leapmotor C10 ownership is simplified with a generous warranty package: six years/150,000km vehicle warranty, eight years/160,000km high-voltage battery warranty, and eight years of roadside assistance and capped-price servicing. Service intervals are 20,000km or 12 months for the BEV and 10,000km or 12 months for the REEV.
7. Backed by Global Automotive Expertise
Leapmotor might be new to Aussie shores but it gains significant credibility through its partnership with Stellantis, one of the world’s largest automotive conglomerates.
The collaboration ensures the Leapmotor C10 benefits from established dealer networks and aftercare infrastructure across Australia, addressing potential concerns about service and support.
Already present in 16 countries and ranked among the top three EV startups in China, Leapmotor’s global expansion is accelerating with Stellantis’s distribution muscle. It’s a brand to watch…
8. Right here. Right now
There’s a school of thought that suggests delayed gratification is good for the soul. That’s hard to wear when you’re ready to make the switch to electric – and enjoy that new car smell.
The good news is that customers keen to drive the new Leapmotor can not only test drive the C10 but also drive it away with minimum wait times.
Leapmotor’s network of 12 Australian dealers (and more to come!) is ready to help. Forget about tedious pre-booking hurdles, get on down and drive experience for yourself. And if you like what you see (and drive) you can take delivery now and not in six months time!
The Fine Print: What to Consider
The C10’s absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto might disappoint some tech-savvy users accustomed to these smartphone integrations. Also, initial impressions pegged the C10’s driver attention monitoring and lane-keeping assist systems on the zealous end of the spectrum. The beauty of OTA update technology is that Leapmotor has already tweaked the assistance levels to better suit Australian conditions.
Charging capabilities, while adequate, aren’t class-leading compared to some BEV competitors, so ultra-fast charging enthusiasts might need to factor this in. On the flip side, the REEV variant delivers a practical drivetrain option many other new energy vehicle brands can’t match.
The Verdict: Put it on your test drive list.
The Leapmotor C10 represents a compelling new option in Australia’s electric SUV landscape. Its sophisticated design, advanced technology, family-friendly practicality, and competitive pricing make a strong case for consideration alongside more established competitors.
For Aussies looking to make the electric transition without breaking the bank — particularly those who appreciate space, thoughtful design and cutting-edge tech — the Leapmotor C10 delivers a premium experience at a value-conscious price point.
