Leapmotor may be a fresh face on Irish roads, but it’s not arriving quietly. Backed by automotive giant Stellantis, the brand has its sights firmly set on delivering well-equipped electric cars at prices that undercut much of the competition. The Leapmotor B10 is its latest arrival, a compact family SUV designed to take on popular rivals like the Kia EV3, Škoda Elroq, and MGS5 EV.

With strong on-paper range, fast charging and an impressive equipment list for the money, the B10 looks like a serious value contender. Let’s see how it all stacks up.

Performance

Powering the Leapmotor B10 is a 215hp electric motor driving the rear wheels, giving it a slightly sportier layout than many rivals in this class. Performance is brisk rather than thrilling, with a 0–100km/h time of around 8 seconds. That’s more than quick enough for daily driving, motorway merging and overtaking without stress.

The B10 offers multiple driving modes, though it’s best to avoid the most efficiency-focused setting unless you’re prioritising range above all else. In that mode, throttle response becomes noticeably muted. Switch to one of the standard or sportier modes and the car feels far more responsive, with sharper acceleration and a more reassuring steering feel.

Regenerative braking can be adjusted through the touchscreen, offering a choice of settings to suit different driving styles. While steering-wheel paddles would make this easier to change on the move, the system itself is smooth and predictable. Ride comfort is also a strong point, with the suspension doing a good job of soaking up uneven road surfaces while remaining composed at speed.

Range and Charging

Leapmotor fits the B10 with a 67.1kWh usable lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by CATL. It’s currently the only battery option available, delivering an official WLTP range of up to 435km. That places it comfortably ahead of smaller electric crossovers like the Renault 4 or Ford Puma Gen-E, though long-range versions of the EV3, Elroq and MG S5 still go further.

Charging is where the B10 really impresses. With DC rapid charging speeds of up to 168kW, a 10–80% charge can be completed in around 28 minutes under ideal conditions. That’s excellent for a car at this price point.

Even better, a heat pump is fitted as standard, helping to preserve range and efficiency in colder weather, something many rivals charge extra for. The B10 also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing you to power small appliances, tools or camping gear directly from the car.

Design and Interior

Inside, the Leapmotor B10 delivers a clean, modern cabin that punches above its weight. Light-coloured leatherette upholstery and minimalist surfaces give the interior an airy, contemporary feel, while material quality is surprisingly strong for the segment. In fact, it feels more premium than some larger Leapmotor models and comfortably competitive with established European rivals.

A large 14.6-inch central touchscreen dominates the dashboard, handling almost all vehicle functions. The system is quick to respond and logically laid out, even if climate controls take a bit of getting used to. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, alongside built-in navigation, voice control and over-the-air software updates.

Passenger space is generous, particularly in the rear, making the B10 well suited to family use. Boot capacity stands at 430 litres, which isn’t class-leading but is practical thanks to its square shape. There’s additional storage beneath the boot floor and a small front boot for charging cables, adding to the car’s everyday usability.

Cost Considerations



Pricing is one of the Leapmotor B10’s biggest selling points. In Ireland, it starts from €32,984, undercutting many similarly sized electric SUVs while offering features that are often optional extras elsewhere. With fast charging, a heat pump, V2L capability and a high level of standard equipment included, the B10 presents a strong value proposition for cost-conscious EV buyers.

Verdict

The Leapmotor B10 delivers exactly what it promises: a spacious, well-equipped electric SUV at a price that makes established rivals look expensive. It may not offer the longest range in the class or the sharpest driving dynamics, but it gets the fundamentals right, comfort, usability, charging speed and value.

For families or first-time EV buyers looking for a practical electric SUV without stretching the budget, the B10 makes a compelling case. Leapmotor might be new to Ireland, but with cars like this, it’s off to a very strong start.