Leapmotor B10: a simple EV with plenty of surprises – test drive review
In terms of appearance, the Leapmotor B10 may look like a simple electric SUV but don’t be fooled.
This second model from Leapmotor Malaysia arrives at the perfect time, just as buyers begin seeking EVs that are practical, affordable, and not overly experimental.
First: it offers a more sensible alternative compared to its bigger sibling, the C10.
Second: beneath its minimalist design lie several strengths that competitors should take seriously.
Here are our impressions after spending several days exploring this Leapmotor SUV.
Exterior
Like the C10, the B10 retains a minimalist design language that contributes to a drag coefficient as low as 0.265 Cd, a figure rarely seen in this segment.
The thin Wing Star LED signature at the front and rear gives it a clean, modern character.
You will, however, need to get used to the door handles that must be pushed out manually.
Thankfully, the tailgate comes with a button that makes loading cargo easier.
The B10 rides on 18‑inch alloy wheels wrapped in Linglong Sport Master tyres.
Yes, a name that might raise eyebrows but their performance in corners is surprisingly convincing.
Colour choices are also far from boring: including Starry Night Blue inspired by Van Gogh’s artwork, Dawn Purple, and Tundra Grey.
Interior
One thing we truly appreciate in the B10 is the 8.8‑inch LCD cluster display.
This means you don’t have to constantly shift your gaze to read important driving information.
The screen is mounted directly on the steering column and moves according to tilt and telescopic adjustments.
In the centre sits a 14.6‑inch touchscreen, which serves as the hub for all functions and controls including the side mirrors adjustment (yes…).
Good news: the Leapmotor B10 now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto!
This is something many tech‑savvy Leapmotor users have been waiting for.
Practicality
If the C10 feels more premium, the B10 leans toward utilitarian — and that’s not a drawback.
Features we like include manually adjustable air vents and a floating centre console with a large storage area underneath.
The bottle/cup holders below can also be folded to maximise available space.
There’s plenty of storage throughout the cabin: in the centre console, under the second‑row air vents, and even a glovebox that can fit a 14‑inch laptop.
Cargo space is 430 litres, expandable to 1,700 litres when the rear seats are folded — allowing nearly 88% of the cabin to be utilised for family activities.
The Oeko‑Tex Standard 100 upholstery made from bamboo charcoal makes the cabin more family‑friendly, especially for those with young children.
Driving Experience
Once upon a time, multi‑link rear suspension was reserved for luxury cars but now it’s becoming common.
The B10 features MacPherson struts up front and multi‑link suspension at the rear.
From our experience, the B10’s suspension tuning feels more natural, with better‑controlled body roll.
Steering feel is livelier too, with predictable response.
What makes the B10 more enjoyable to drive is its brake pedal feel, no longer “empty” which is a significant improvement over the C10.
The B10 is powered by a single rear‑drive motor producing 218 hp and 240 Nm.
If the C10 is designed for family comfort, the B10 may suit those who enjoy a more emotional driving experience.
Three drive modes are available, and in our opinion, Comfort feels the most balanced for daily use.
Battery & Charging
The Design variant we tested comes with a 67.1 kWh battery.
On a full charge, it delivers 434 km WLTP range — sufficient for city driving.
For interstate travel, you can rely on its 168 kW DC fast‑charging capability, allowing 30–80% charging in under 30 minutes.
Safety
Standard equipment includes 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, and a very clear 360‑degree camera that helps in tight spaces.
With nearly 17 ADAS features, the B10 is suitable for new drivers.
These systems are designed to keep the SUV safe at all times, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Centering Control (LCC)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
However, for experienced drivers, the system can sometimes feel overly controlling.
Some features can be turned off at the start of a drive, but under certain conditions, they reactivate automatically.
After several attempts, we found it easier to just leave them on — even if they occasionally test your patience.
Weaknesses
Like the C10, B10 owners still need to rely on the NFC key before starting a drive.
Fortunately, there’s an alternative: owners can use their smartphone as a secondary key and access important vehicle information.
Miss the days of physical key fobs?
No worries because Leapmotor Malaysia now offers this option for both new and existing owners.
Conclusion
The Leapmotor B10 proves that an affordable electric SUV (priced from RM118,800) doesn’t have to compromise on driving experience, comfort, or practicality.
It may not be the most powerful or the most premium in its segment.
But with a balanced package that aligns well with the needs of Malaysian buyers, the B10 stands as an EV worth considering.
