Xiaomi SU7 Electric Sedan Review

This article provides an in-depth review of the Xiaomi SU7 Max, a newly released Chinese electric sedan, gauging whether the hype around Chinese EVs dominating global markets—especially the US—is justified. The reviewer has driven the car for two weeks and offers a detailed analysis of its specs, design, technology, driving experience, and market implications.

Key Specifications and Pricing

Design & Build Quality

• Exterior: Xiaomi’s SU7 blends design cues from various premium brands:
  • McLaren-inspired headlights.
  • Lotus-style hood lines.
  • Side profile reminiscent of Porsche Taycan.
  • Thin bezels like Polestar.
  • Rear taillight bar akin to Lincoln.
  • Active rear wing similar to Mercedes-AMG GT.
• The unique purple color enhances its visual appeal.
• Xiaomi, not being a traditional automaker, enjoys design freedom without legacy constraints.
• Interior:
  • High-quality materials including leather seats (heated and ventilated), Alcantara headliner.
  • A clean, premium design with practical physical controls (e.g., power button, temperature, fan speed).
  • Multiple displays: a 16-inch central touchscreen, a small driver cluster, and a HUD aligned with the road.
  • Innovative features like a flashlight powered by the car’s battery stored between front seats.
  • 25-speaker surround sound system with ambient lighting synced to music.
  • Rear passengers get Xiaomi tablets as entertainment screens.
  • Panoramic tinted glass sunroof.

Software & Technology

• Integration:
  • Seamlessly syncs with Xiaomi’s ecosystem, including phones and smart home devices.
  • Wireless 50W charging compatible with Xiaomi phones.
  • Wireless screen mirroring.
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay with the largest, nicest display window seen by the reviewer.
• Unique Audio Feature: Navigation voice commands are channeled through a separate speaker behind the driver’s head, allowing uninterrupted music playback for all passengers.
• Modular Interior:
  • Multiple mounting points for accessories such as additional displays, USB hubs, magnetic mounts, karaoke microphones, and long-range walkie-talkies.
  • Allows users to customize the interior hardware and layout extensively, from minimalist to maximalist.
• Active Noise Cancellation and excellent sound insulation contribute to a serene cabin environment.

Driving Experience

• Drive Modes:
  • Comfort mode: smooth, soft suspension similar to luxury EVs like Lucid; responsive but not aggressive acceleration.
  • Sport and Sport+ modes: increased accelerator sensitivity, firmer suspension, heavier steering, and added performance telemetry (G-force meter).
• Performance:
  • 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds with launch control and a boost button.
  • Handling comparable to Tesla Model 3 Performance and BMW i4, though not at Porsche Taycan’s level.
  • Active bolstering seats hug the driver during turns, a feature more common in high-end vehicles.
• Build Quality:
  • Quiet cabin with minimal motor, wind, or road noise.
  • Strong soundproofing enhanced by active noise cancellation.
• Autonomous Driving:
  • Lidar-equipped with advanced self-driving features called Pilot Pro and Pilot Max (effective on Chinese roads).
  • Works well on U.S. roads tested, though the system is optimized for China.

Market Position and Implications

• Value Proposition: The Xiaomi SU7 Max offers premium-level features, build quality, and performance at a $42,000 price point, which rivals or exceeds more expensive competitors in the US market.
• No Bleeding-Edge Tech: The car uses standard parts but excels in combining them seamlessly with excellent software, modularity, and design.
• Availability: Not currently available in the US; potential European release expected in 2027.
• Competitive Impact: If priced similarly abroad, this vehicle could disrupt markets by raising the standard for EVs, pressuring established brands.
• Political and Economic Barriers: Import tariffs and regulations currently limit availability in the US.

Key Insights

• Xiaomi leverages its extensive tech ecosystem to create a well-integrated, feature-rich EV experience.
• The modular interior design is a rare innovation, allowing personalized hardware customization.
• The software experience rivals smartphone smoothness, a clear advantage for a tech company entering automotive manufacturing.
• The car delivers a balanced package of luxury, performance, and technology without the premium price tag.
• This model raises the bar for what a $40k electric sedan can offer, which could reshape consumer expectations globally.

Conclusion

The Xiaomi SU7 Max is a formidable entrant in the electric vehicle market, combining competitive specs, high-quality design, advanced software, and unique modularity at a disruptive price. While it is not yet available in the US, its presence signals a potential shift in the EV landscape, pushing incumbents to innovate and improve. The car is not a niche or experimental product but a complete, polished offering that challenges the status quo of mid-range electric sedans.