Introduction
The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is one of the most talked-about electric cars of 2026. In fact, few vehicles have caused as much excitement in the automotive world. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra promises ludicrous power levels at an almost unbelievable price point. Furthermore, it is a direct challenge to established performance giants like Porsche and Tesla. In this article, we cover everything — from specs and design to real-world drag race results and a full buying verdict.
This article covers a full performance test of the SU7 Ultra. In addition, we explore its specifications and luxury features. Finally, we compare it directly against Porsche and Tesla on the track.
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Power and Price: A New EV Benchmark
The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra reveal sent shockwaves through the car world. Moreover, it reportedly boasts over 1,500 horsepower. As a result, that sets a staggering benchmark for any mass-produced EV.
Performance Prowess
The Ultra uses a three-motor setup. Specifically, two motors sit on the rear axle. Additionally, one motor sits upfront. Together, This mirrors the Tesla Model S Plaid configuration. However, Xiaomi pushes things even further.
Motor Speed: The motors spin up to 27,000 RPM. By comparison, that is much higher than the typical 21,000 RPM seen in rivals.
Furthermore, this raw output even surpasses a Bugatti Chiron. On the other hand, the base-level SU7 offers a more modest 299 horsepower.
Price Section
What truly stunned reviewers was the pricing. For instance, in China the SU7 Ultra starts at the equivalent of £50,000. To put this into perspective, That is roughly one-quarter the price of a Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. Although analysts predict a European price closer to £80,000, the performance-per-pound value remains revolutionary.
Nürburgring Section
The reviewer questions its immediate track credentials. For context, an old 991 Porsche set a Nürburgring time of 7 minutes and 4 seconds. Meanwhile, the fastest Tesla Model S managed a 7:25 lap. Therefore, the question remains — can this car truly compete at that level?
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Design and Interior Fully Explored
The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is not shy about drawing inspiration from established high-performance vehicles. As a result, it creates a distinctive and aggressive aesthetic that turns heads everywhere.
Exterior Design and Aerodynamics
The headlight design strongly recalls the McLaren 720S. Similarly, the overall side profile echoes the Porsche Taycan. Even the font choices feel Porsche-inspired throughout. Furthermore, the Ultra features a larger and more aggressive front apron. Consequently, this improves battery cooling by 10% over standard models.
High-End Components at a Low Price
Even at this entry price, the Ultra includes carbon-ceramic brakes as standard. On top of that, an aggressive rear wing adds to the sporty appearance. Furthermore, an electronically activated rear diffuser flap moves up and down automatically. Notably, that feature is rarely seen on any car at this price point.
How Does It Compare to Porsche and McLaren?
At first glance, the SU7 Ultra borrows heavily from both Porsche and McLaren in its styling. However, it manages to create its own strong identity. Furthermore, the aggressive aerodynamic additions make it stand out from both rivals on the road. Overall, for a car at this price, the design ambition is genuinely impressive.
Cabin Experience: Tech Overload and Quality Surprises
Stepping inside reveals a cockpit loaded with premium materials. However, some teething issues are present. For instance, some lower plastics feel slightly more budget-oriented.
Premium Materials and Interior Finish
Placing the key card in its slot triggers something clever. Specifically, touch the brake and a side display panel rotates automatically. As a result, the digital driver’s display is revealed behind it.
Initially, the central screen starts in Chinese. Nevertheless, repeatedly pressing a specific button switches it to English. In fact, this is known as an engineering hack among early owners.
Innovative Display and Infotainment System
Additionally, physical controls for fan speed, temperature, and suspension height are all present. Notably, air suspension comes as standard. However, adjusting the steering column requires going through the screen menus. As a result, that is a minor frustration for new owners.
Ergonomics, Controls and Sport Seating
Sport seats come standard. Moreover, they feature moving side bolsters that actively grip the driver during cornering.
Rear Seating and Storage
The rear cabin is spacious. In particular, it benefits from the large glass roof overhead. Similarly to the Model S, knee room is ample. However, the seats sit relatively low due to the underfloor battery. Consequently, under-thigh support is slightly compromised.
On the bright side, storage is generous throughout. For example, the boot offers 454 litres — slightly larger than the Taycan sedan. Additionally, multiple storage nets are dotted throughout the cabin. Furthermore, a deep cubby holds charging cables neatly. Finally, up front, the frunk offers a generous amount of space too.
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Practicality and European Challenges
Unfortunately, transitioning the SU7 Ultra to European roads reveals several real hurdles. In fact, buyers outside China need to be aware of these limitations before purchasing.
Self-Driving Features Are Locked
The large exterior housing suggests advanced LiDAR-based self-driving systems. However, these features are completely inaccessible to European drivers. As a result, they are restricted to standard adaptive cruise control only.
Charging Speed Takes a Big Hit
In Europe, a charging adapter is required for DC fast chargers. Consequently, the charging speed drops significantly. Instead of nearly 500 kW available in China, European drivers get just 130 kW. Learn more about EV charging standards in Europe.. Therefore, long-distance charging stops will take considerably longer.
Software and Connectivity Quirks
The car reportedly has connection issues with Huawei phones. Apparently, this stems from an alleged corporate dispute in China. On the other hand, it connects seamlessly with iPhones and Xiaomi devices without any problems.
Minor Frustrations Worth Knowing
The rear-view camera is positioned quite low. Furthermore, it lacks a washer, so it quickly becomes obscured in rain. Additionally, the high-performance brakes emit a noticeable squeak during low-speed driving. Nevertheless, these are minor issues in an otherwise impressive package.
The Ultimate Drag Race Against Tuned Titans
Two heavily modified rivals were lined up against it. First was a 1,500+ horsepower R35 Nissan GT-R.. Alongside it sat a 1,500+ horsepower Lamborghini — manual and AWD.
Initially, the GT-R driver reported a turbo failure after the first launch. However, they managed a quick fuse reset to continue racing.
Subsequently, continuous launches caused the battery to overheat badly. As a result, the car was forced to reduce its power output for self-protection. Consequently, this handed the GT-R — running 9.1s in the quarter mile — the victory. Similarly, the Lamborghini running 10.0s also took the win.
Performance Metrics
However, when allowed to run without overheating constraints, the true potential showed. Remarkably, the quarter mile time came in at 9.4 seconds. Interestingly, that matches a Bugatti Chiron Pure Sport. Meanwhile, Xiaomi had claimed a 1.98-second 0-60 time. In reality, the real-world result was 2.79 seconds. Nevertheless, that is still exceptional for a £50,000 car.
Driving Experience
Despite the thermal issues under extreme load, normal road driving was impressive. In particular, the air suspension handled low-speed bumps adequately. Furthermore, the throttle calibration felt the most dialled-in of any Chinese electric car tested so far.
The Performance Verdict — Is It Worth It?
The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is a true paradox. On one hand, supercar performance figures come as standard. Additionally, the interior quality sits firmly in near-premium territory. Yet incredibly, it costs the same as a regular family sedan.
Hyper-Spec Value That Defies Belief
The numbers alone are staggering. In fact, 1,548 horsepower for just £50,000 is almost unbelievable. Furthermore, no other mass-produced car at this price point comes close to matching these figures. Overall, the performance-per-pound value is simply in a league of its own.
Engineering Details That Set It Apart
For example, the 24-karat gold and carbon fiber badge is protected by local law. Interestingly, stealing items over £500 in value carries serious penalties there. Furthermore, the battery casing is completely bulletproof. In fact, Xiaomi proved this by dropping a watermelon off a six-story building onto it.
Tech Integration and Sound Experience
In terms of tech integration, the infotainment is fast and responsive. Moreover, four different sound modes are available — including one mimicking a Porsche Taycan. Additionally, the customisable settings go far beyond what rivals offer at this price. Overall, this highlights Xiaomi’s deep roots in consumer electronics.
Should You Buy the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra?
Ultimately, performance and technology are no longer weaknesses for Chinese brands. However, buyers outside China still face some real hurdles. For instance, adapter requirements and reduced charging speeds are genuine concerns. Beyond that, some teething pains are expected with any bleeding-edge technology launch. In conclusion, the future looks extremely bright for Xiaomi. You can explore the full lineup here.
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