October 3, 2024, Shanghai:- In the U.S., minivans have often been tagged as the ultimate “parent-mobile”—a practical but unexciting choice for family transportation. However, Zeekr, a Chinese automaker, has reimagined this idea, launching the Zeekr Mix, an MPV with the power of a BMW M3, futuristic aesthetics, and concept-car level interiors.
The Zeekr Mix has yet to announce official pricing or release plans for markets beyond China. Given the popularity of MPVs in places like Europe, however, expansion could be on the horizon. Its cutting-edge design is hard to overlook; one might even mistake it for a futuristic robo-taxi, echoing visions of a driverless 2075. The Mix’s architecture is based on Geely’s SEA platform, which also supports Waymo’s autonomous robo-taxi. But unlike a concept, this is a fully developed production model.
One distinctive feature is the vehicle’s 4.7-meter length, combined with a Mercedes S-Class-like 3-meter wheelbase, enabling maximum interior space. Inside, the Mix uses an innovative rear suspension setup that enhances interior space without compromising cargo capacity—568 liters with seats up, expanding to over 2,000 liters when folded.
Zeekr’s creativity also extends to the car’s entrance design. Traditional sliding doors were bypassed for hinged ones similar to public transport doors, maximizing accessibility without compromising space. Inside, the lack of a B-pillar allows for open and easy access, with rear and front doors combining to create a robust dual B-pillar structure when closed.
Entering the rear row introduces a wealth of amenities, including heated, cooled, and massaging seats controlled via a sleek touchscreen in the center armrest. Passengers can adjust seat rake, forward and backward tilt, and even a leg rest with electric ease. There’s a tablet mount with an outlet on each front seat, enabling easy entertainment access for rear passengers. While heated seats are likely standard, cooling and massaging features may be optional.
Perhaps the Mix’s standout interior feature is its 270-degree swiveling front seats, a world-first according to Zeekr. With the press of a button, driver and front passenger seats can fully face rear passengers, transforming the vehicle into a more social space. This flexibility even allows for unconventional uses, like a mobile yoga studio.
The center console offers modularity as well, with options for a refrigerator or table mounts, adding versatility for various activities. Zeekr’s design team has focused on maximizing space, even incorporating a unique, top-hinged glove compartment.
On the tech front, the Mix borrows screens from the Zeekr 7X, including a 13-inch instrument cluster and a manually tiltable 15-inch center screen, offering flexibility for driver or passenger view. There’s an undeniable sense of spaciousness, further accentuated by the absence of physical buttons and an unconventional glove compartment design.
In terms of performance, the Mix boasts two battery options: a 76.5 kWh LFP battery for a 550 km range or a 102 kWh NCM battery from CATL with a 702 km range. Charging from 10 to 80% is reportedly achievable in just 10–15 minutes, depending on the configuration. Power-wise, its single rear motor generates around 415 horsepower, similar to an E92 M3, but with a 6.8-second 0-100 km/h time, due to its substantial 2.7-ton weight.
While front McPherson strut suspension was chosen over double-wishbone to reduce costs, handling remains agile, and body roll is well-managed. Low-speed maneuverability is enhanced by a compact 4.95-meter turning radius, nearly a meter less than a Honda Civic, made possible by the front suspension’s efficient design.
With its blend of power, spacious design, and high-tech features, the Zeekr Mix pushes the boundaries of what an MPV can be.