Driving Xiaomi's Electric Car: Are we Cooked?
Marques Brownlee tests the Xiaomi SU7, a Chinese electric sedan priced at $42,000 USD, to evaluate whether Chinese EVs would truly dominate the US market if imported. Brownlee finds that the SU7 delivers premium features, exceptional software, and impressive performance that feel more aligned with a $75,000 vehicle, supporting the claim that Chinese automakers pose a genuine competitive threat to established manufacturers.
Key takeaways
- • The Xiaomi SU7 Max offers flagship EV specs (673 hp, 320-mile range, dual-motor AWD) at a $42,000 price point that matches or exceeds Tesla Model 3 Performance pricing in the US.
- • Software integration is a standout feature, including intelligent voice routing that plays navigation directions only through the driver's headrest speaker while preserving music for all passengers.
- • The car features modular interior customization with magnetic mounting points for Xiaomi accessories (speedometer displays, USB hubs, walkie-talkies), allowing buyers to personalize their interior layout and cost.
- • Build quality and sound isolation rival luxury vehicles costing $30,000+ more, with premium materials, active noise cancellation, and a 25-speaker audio system creating a serene cabin experience.
- • The dual-personality drive modes (comfort vs. sport plus) provide both daily-driver smoothness and 2.5-second zero-to-60 performance with launch control, matching enthusiast-grade EVs from established brands.
- • Full self-driving capability (Pilot Pro/Max in China) handles highway and city driving reliably, though it doesn't function in US markets where the car is unavailable.
- • Wireless Apple CarPlay is integrated alongside native Xiaomi ecosystem features, offering backup compatibility for US users.
Recommendations (2)
"This car here I've been driving for the last two weeks is called the Xiaomi SU7. This is a $42,000 car that feels like a $75,000 car if it were made here in the US"
Marques Brownlee · ▶ 0:42
"This car also happens to have wireless Apple CarPlay and it's nice. I think it is the biggest, nicest window of wireless CarPlay I have ever seen in a car"
Marques Brownlee · ▶ 5:39
Mentioned (3)
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