After two years in a Tesla Model Y, I spent four days in an Xpeng G6—here’s my take

Owning a Tesla Model Y for two years has given me a deep understanding of what makes it one of the most popular electric SUVs on the market. So when I had the opportunity to spend four days with its ambitious Chinese competitor, the Xpeng G6, I jumped at the chance. With its bold claims and clear inspiration from Tesla, could this EV really be a “Tesla killer”? Here’s my honest take.

First Impressions: Familiar Yet Different

Switching from my Model Y to the Xpeng G6 felt like moving from an iPhone to a high-end Android device. Everything is where you expect it to be, but with a slight twist. Xpeng clearly studied Tesla’s user experience and implemented many of the same features—sometimes improving them.

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The gear selector placement, turn signal logic, and regenerative braking settings are almost identical to Tesla’s. This is actually a good thing. If something works well, why change it? The familiarity meant I felt comfortable in the G6 almost immediately.

The Autopilot system (called XPilot) follows the same philosophy. It activates with a double tap on the control stalk and offers a similar visual interface. The logic of its lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control also mirrors Tesla’s, but with some enhancements—like better handling of temporary disengagements. It’s a smart approach: keep what works and refine the details.

A More Premium Interior

This is where Xpeng pulls ahead. Once inside, it’s obvious that the G6 feels more premium than the Model Y. The materials and build quality are superior, offering a more refined atmosphere.

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  • The ventilated front seats are a major plus, something Tesla still doesn’t offer.
  • The cabin is quieter, especially on highways, making long drives more comfortable.
  • The central touchscreen (15 inches) is reminiscent of Tesla’s but feels slightly less fluid in operation.
  • Unlike Tesla, the G6 supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a big win.
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A notable addition is the driver display behind the steering wheel, something I often miss in the Model Y. However, a head-up display (HUD) would have been even better, as seen in many premium Chinese EVs like Nio and BYD.

A Smarter Infotainment System

Xpeng takes a different route than Tesla by embracing third-party apps. The G6 has its own app store, where you can download services like Apple TV, Disney+, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. While some are just optimized web apps, the integration is impressive. Tesla keeps its ecosystem locked down, which is starting to feel restrictive in comparison.

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However, the software isn’t perfect. Some translations are awkward, and there are minor display bugs. The overall smoothness of the UI isn’t quite at Tesla’s level yet, but regular updates show Xpeng is actively improving.

Driving the G6: Comfortable but Not as Sporty

On the road, the Xpeng G6 is very comparable to my Model Y in terms of efficiency and energy consumption. But the driving experience itself is where differences emerge:

  • Acceleration: Even in Sport mode, the G6 is a little less aggressive than Tesla.
  • Comfort: The suspension is softer, absorbing bumps better than the Model Y.
  • Steering: The steering feel is lighter, making it feel more relaxed but less engaging.

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For families or those prioritizing comfort over a sporty drive, the G6 is the better choice. But if you love the instant thrill of acceleration, Tesla still has the edge.

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Charging: A Surprise Win for Xpeng

Charging is usually a weak point for Chinese EVs, but the G6 proves otherwise. Thanks to its 800V architecture, it actually outperforms Tesla in some situations:

  • Fast charging speeds are impressive, with a stable high-power plateau.
  • Charging from 10% to 80% happens faster than my Model Y.

If Supercharger exclusivity is what kept you tied to Tesla, you might want to reconsider.

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XPilot: A More Relaxed Autopilot

Tesla’s Autopilot is often criticized for its strict disengagements when you activate the turn signal. Xpeng solves this: XPilot remains active during lane changes and smoothly re-engages after maneuvers. This makes long highway drives significantly more relaxing.

Other improvements:

  • The system is more cautious, which sometimes feels overly conservative.
  • Lane centering is steadier, avoiding Tesla’s occasional oscillations.
  • Automatic lane changes are well-executed, with better gap assessment.

One flaw: it slows down too much in tight curves, sometimes by 20-30 km/h below the set speed. This can be frustrating, especially when Tesla handles them more naturally.

Sound System: Next-Level Audio

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As a music lover, I was blown away by the Xpeng G6’s Xopera sound system:

  • 960W, 18 speakers, including subwoofers and immersive ceiling speakers.
  • Crystal-clear highs, deep but controlled bass, and well-balanced mids.
  • Built-in speakers in the headrests for a more private listening experience.

Compared to the Model Y’s already solid sound system, the G6 is on another level.

Voice Assistant : A Letdown

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This is where Xpeng struggles. The voice assistant is locked to English and struggles to recognize even basic commands. This is frustrating because the hardware (good microphones, headrest speakers) is there, but the software lags behind.

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Google Assistant remains the benchmark, leaving both Xpeng and Tesla behind in this area.

Size & Practicality: A Mixed Bag

Despite being larger than the Model Y, the G6 has a smaller trunk. This seems like an odd trade-off, but it aligns with Chinese market preferences for better rear passenger comfort over cargo space.

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Luckily, parking is easier than expected, thanks to:

  • 360-degree cameras with high-definition imaging.
  • Smart zoom and obstacle detection.
  • Front-facing camera, a feature missing from many competitors.

AutoPark: A Hidden Gem

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Tesla’s Autopark is far from perfect, but Xpeng’s version actually works well. It confidently identifies spaces and executes precise, fluid parking maneuvers, even in tight spots where my Model Y struggles. This is one area where Xpeng beats Tesla outright.

Final Verdict: Would I Switch to the G6?

So, after four days, would I trade my Model Y for a G6? Not yet.

The G6 impresses with its premium comfort, better sound system, more flexible software, and improved driver assistance features. And yes, not having to explain Elon Musk’s latest tweets at every dinner party is a bonus.

But there are concerns:

  • Xpeng is still new in Europe. What about service and resale value?
  • Software updates are needed to fix some UI bugs and voice assistant issues.
  • The trunk is smaller, despite the car being larger.
  • XPilot’s cornering speed issue needs refining.

For now, I’ll stick with my Model Y. But Xpeng is onto something big. If they refine these details, Tesla should start worrying—because the Chinese EV industry is catching up fast.

3.9/5 - (107 votes)

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