Leapmotor renews the C16 SUV with major upgrades ahead of its launch in Europe

Leapmotor has just unveiled the updated 2026 C16 SUV in China, a vehicle that combines technological innovation, greater range, and functional design, and that is now available with a new five-seat configuration. This model, on sale in fully electric (BEV) and extended-range (EREV) versions, features more than 70 technical upgrades over its predecessor and a larger-capacity battery, with a starting price slightly above 18,000 euros at the current exchange rate.

Following its launch in China, the Leapmotor C16 SUV is expected to reach the European market in the near future, although an exact launch date is not yet known.

The new Leapmotor C16 stands out first and foremost for being based on an 800V platform, optimized for greater efficiency. The base version features a 74.9 kWh LFP battery, up from the 67.7 kWh it had until now, thanks to which it is capable of covering 580 km under the Chinese CLTC homologation cycle, according to the manufacturer. The top-of-the-range version, meanwhile, features a battery with the same 81.9 kWh LFP chemistry, which increases its range over the base version up to 630 km CLTC. Both versions are equipped with the same electric motor on the rear axle, delivering a maximum output of 220 kW.

The C16 EREV, on the other hand, combines a 1.5-litre gasoline generator producing 70 kW with two battery options: 28.4 kWh or 38.7 kWh. This model is thus capable of offering a purely electric CLTC range of 200 or 280 km, respectively. It features a 170 kW rear electric motor, which provides greater versatility on long journeys.

With the very latest technology

In terms of technology, the 2026 C16 integrates an advanced Snapdragon 8295 SoC, and some versions even feature a LiDAR sensor paired with a Qualcomm 8650 chip to process all captured information, with up to 100 TOPS of computing capacity. For driver assistance, the vehicle is also equipped with five millimetre-wave radars, twelve cameras and twelve parking sensors, thus guaranteeing a high level of safety and comfort.

The SUV’s exterior design retains the minimalist aesthetic of its predecessor, with a slim LED light bar, automatic flush door handles and a prominent front air intake. Its dimensions remain the same at 4.9 metres long, 1.9 metres wide and 1.8 metres high, with a 2.8-metre wheelbase, which ensures a spacious interior.

You’ll feel right at home

Inside, the C16 offers two configurations: a six-seat layout (2+2+2) and the new five-seat layout (2+3). The latter includes seats with ventilation, heating and four-way massage function, as well as an enlarged boot with up to 1,663 litres of capacity when the second row is folded down. Both models feature an 8.1-litre fridge that can also heat.

With a starting price slightly above 18,000 euros at the current exchange rate, the 2026 C16 is even somewhat more affordable than its predecessor, making it an even more attractive option.

Finally, it should be noted that although Leapmotor had already announced the sale of the six-seat model in Europe, it is still unclear whether the five-seat variant will also be available on the continent.