Everything You Need to Know About Xiaomi’s First Electric SUV

SUVs aren’t just a trend, they’re the most popular and desirable vehicles on the planet. From school runs to road trips, they’ve become the default choice for drivers who want space, style and status. So it was only a matter of time before Xiaomi jumped in with one of their own.

After making waves with the sleek SU7 sedan, Xiaomi is back, this time with the YU7, their first electric SUV. And it’s not entering quietly. The YU7 is gunning for segment heavyweights like the Tesla Model Y, BMW iX3, and Mercedes-Benz EQB, packing serious range, power, and smart features into a sharply designed shell.

Design: McLaren or Xiaomi?

Lamborghini did it. Ferrari did it (even if they don’t like calling the Purosangue an SUV). And the world is still waiting on McLaren to join the SUV party. But if you’re curious what that might look like, Xiaomi’s new YU7 might just be the closest we’ll get for now.

Sure, the headlights are lifted straight from the Xiaomi SU7, but let’s be honest, those lights have always looked like they belong on a McLaren 720S or 750S. That same teardrop shape, that intense focus, it's uncanny.

Xiaomi SU7 headlights (top) and McLaren 720s headlights (bottom)

Move around to the body and you’ll spot familiar cues too. The overall silhouette carries the athletic, long-hood, high-shoulder stance that screams Purosangue. It's wide, low-ish (for an SUV), and sculpted in a way that feels more supercar than soccer shuttle.

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But it’s the rear that truly sets the YU7 apart. The taillights are like nothing else out there: lean, modern, and uniquely Xiaomi. They give the car its own identity, a confident signature that you’ll recognise even in the dark. It’s available in three standout colours: Emerald Green, Titanium Silver, and Lava Orange.

Power Meets Practicality

Looks aside, the YU7 isn’t just here to play dress-up, it's got serious performance chops too.

The standard model packs a 315 hp (235kW) rear motor, perfect for those who want solid everyday power with a whisper-quiet electric drive. But if you want that thrill when you step on the pedal, the Pro model turns things up with a dual-motor setup: an extra 174 hp (130kW) up front, for a combined 489 hp (365kW). 

Both versions can hit a top speed of 240 km/h, which is more than enough to keep things exciting.

The YU7 is fitted with a 96.3 kWh LFP battery, giving you up to 835 km (CLTC) in the standard model, 770 km (CLTC) in the Pro, and 760 km (CLTC) in the Max . Long trips, no problem. And when you do need a recharge, it can go from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes.

Tech, Comfort, and Everything in Between

Step inside the YU7 and you’ll find a cabin that’s more flagship smartphone than family SUV. Xiaomi has leaned into its tech heritage here, with a minimalist interior that’s still packed with gadgets and comforts.

Front and centre is a crisp 16.1-inch 3K infotainment display, floating above a clean, horizontal dash that keeps distractions to a minimum. The driver gets a 7.1-inch instrument display, and there's even a dedicated screen for the passenger. 

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Voice control is powered by Xiaomi’s own HyperOS, which means faster, more natural interaction with the car’s systems. Whether you're adjusting the AC, navigating to the nearest charger, or cueing up your next playlist, it's all just a quick command away.

Comfort-wise, the seats are wrapped in sustainable materials, with heating and ventilation as standard across both models. There’s even an optional massage function in the Pro, which feels right at home in a car that’s trying to blend luxury with everyday usability.

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Final Thoughts: A Strong Contender Hits the SUV Arena

Xiaomi’s YU7 isn’t just another electric SUV, it’s their bold answer to the global SUV craze. With a standout blend of dynamic design, supercar-inspired styling, turbocharged range, and blistering charging speeds, the YU7 squarely targets the likes of the Tesla Model Y, BMW iX3, and Mercedes‑Benz EQB.

Pricing is still under wraps, but based on multiple leaks and analyst estimates, expect the base YU7 to start around ¥245,900 ( R600 000) in China, edging in neatly below the Model Y. Higher-tier models (Pro and Max) could range up to ¥329,900 ( R805 000).

The YU7 is to hit Chinese showrooms in July 2025.