Undefined HiPhi X EV SUV Review: Expert Take For 2025

The HiPhi X represents a bold entry from Chinese automaker Human Horizons into the premium electric SUV market. This large vehicle combines eye-catching design elements, cutting-edge interior technology, and potent electric performance to appeal to buyers seeking something beyond traditional luxury brands. With its distinctive gullwing doors and interactive lighting, the X stands out in a crowded segment dominated by models like the Tesla Model X and BMW iX.

Striking Exterior Design and Unique Features

The HiPhi X commands attention with its imposing dimensions, roughly matching the footprint of a Range Rover while being slightly longer, wider, and lower. Its exterior blends futuristic flair with practical luxury SUV proportions. Slim LED headlights frame large interactive lighting panels that display symbols, project messages onto the road, or even convey emotions through shapes like hearts or thumbs-up. These panels also indicate battery status or upcoming maneuvers, adding a layer of communicative tech rarely seen in competitors.

Signature gullwing doors, patented in-house by HiPhi, split into upper and lower sections for independent operation. The upper panels can lift independently, allowing open-air entry even at low speeds below 3mph, though they avoid opening in rain. Proximity sensors enable no-touch operation, though users report occasional accidental triggers when standing too close. Combined with the doors, the lights can create choreographed shows during entry or exit, enhancing the vehicle’s wow factor.

A full-width rear light bar and 2.6 million-pixel headlights support advanced functions, including projecting images onto walls. While the styling may polarize—described as quirky, fussy, or imposing—the overall package delivers a fresh alternative to conventional luxury SUVs.

Advanced Powertrain and Performance Capabilities

Powering the HiPhi X is a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup delivering around 590-598 horsepower and substantial torque, enabling 0-62mph acceleration in 3.9 seconds despite its 2.5-tonne curb weight. Top speed is electronically limited to 124mph. The H-SOA platform underpins the vehicle, housing a 97kWh (90.6kWh usable) battery pack for an estimated 300-mile range.

Charging supports 124 miles added in 20 minutes on fast chargers. Drive modes include adjustable settings for power delivery, steering weight, suspension firmness, and regenerative braking via steering wheel paddles—a Ferrari-inspired double-pull system switches between adjustments. An Individual mode allows customization, pairing light steering with soft ride and sharp throttle response.

On the road, the X surprises with agile handling. Direct steering provides good responsiveness, though feedback is limited. Body control is composed, allowing fun on twisty roads where tires grip well despite the mass. Sport mode unleashes full power for seat-pinning acceleration. However, the ride can feel firm or jagged over low-speed bumps due to large wheels and weight, and motorway speeds introduce noticeable wind and tire noise.

Luxurious Yet Tech-Heavy Cabin Environment

Inside, the HiPhi X prioritizes a tech-forward cabin with multiple screens: a 16.9-inch central touchscreen packed with info, a dedicated passenger display (driver-invisible for distraction-free use), a 14.6-inch driver’s instrument panel, a 12.8-inch color head-up display, and a digital rear-view mirror compensating for the tiny rear window. HiPhiGO voice control aims to simplify navigation through the interface, alongside touchpad controls.

The four-seat layout feels more premium than the six-seater, with reclining second-row seats offering luxury (though some find them impractical). Rear access is eased by gullwing doors and removable roof panels, allowing upright entry for adults. Materials convey an upmarket ambiance, though build quality falls short of German rivals like Mercedes or BMW.

Passenger entertainment shines with the front screen supporting movies or streaming like Netflix via phone mirroring, though reaching it can be awkward. Overall, the cabin is comfortable for long hauls, with soft suspension aiding motorway cruising despite noise.

Practicality, Pricing, and Market Positioning

Available in four- or six-seat configurations, the X prioritizes chauffeur-driven luxury in the pricier four-seater. The six-seater offers better practicality for families, with accessible third-row seats. However, cargo space and overall usability lag behind some rivals, and recliners are critiqued for poor design.

Pricing starts around €109,000 (£93,441), positioning it against high-end EVs. UK availability is slated for 2025/26. As HiPhi’s first European model, it leverages ‘LuxTech’ branding—luxury fused with technology—to differentiate from established players.

• Pros: Innovative doors and lights, potent acceleration, tech-rich interior, composed handling.
• Cons: Firm low-speed ride, cabin noise at speed, refinement gaps, limited practicality.

Driving Dynamics in Depth

HiPhi emphasizes technology over pure driving thrills, yet the X delivers balanced dynamics. Around town, it crashes over potholes but remains quiet otherwise. On motorways, comfort prevails thanks to supportive seats, though refinement trails premium badges. Twisties reveal poise, with predictable behavior and strong grip, making it more engaging than expected for its size.

Regenerative braking offers four levels, tunable via paddles, enhancing efficiency. The single-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, contributing to the EV’s effortless power delivery. While not a driver’s car like a Porsche, it holds its own against the BMW iX in straight-line speed.

Technology and User Interface Breakdown

The infotainment suite impresses with voice commands handling complex tasks, reducing screen interaction needs. The HUD projects essential data colorfully, and the digital mirror enhances rear visibility. Drawbacks include information overload on the main screen and occasional reach issues for passenger use.

Interactive elements extend to the exterior, where lights communicate intent, potentially improving safety in urban settings. HiPhi’s in-house development ensures seamless integration, though software updates will be key for long-term appeal.

Competitor Comparison

Versus Tesla Model X: HiPhi offers split gullwings and more screens but lacks falcon-door maturity.

Against BMW iX: Matches acceleration but trails in ride refinement and build.

Audi Q8 e-tron or Mercedes EQE SUV: HiPhi’s tech novelty contrasts their polished dynamics.

Future Prospects for HiPhi in Europe

Launched by Human Horizons (HiPhi brand) in 2018, the X signals ambitious expansion. Assembled with some off-the-shelf parts, it fits the premium EV template while innovating. Early drives excite for its potential, provided quality and ride improve. As Chinese EVs gain traction, HiPhi could carve a niche for tech enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the range of the HiPhi X?

Estimated at around 300 miles on a full charge from its 97kWh battery.

How fast is the HiPhi X?

0-62mph in 3.9 seconds with a 124mph top speed.

Does the HiPhi X have autonomous driving features?

It includes advanced driver aids, but full autonomy details vary by market; focus is on semi-autonomous tech.

Is the HiPhi X available in the UK?

Expected in 2025/26.

How does the HiPhi X compare to Tesla Model X?

Similar size and doors, but HiPhi adds interactive lights and more screens at a competitive price.