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Leapmotor BO3x car launch

Allister Wade

By Allister Wade
Allister Wade is AA Motoring’s Technical Support Lead, known for no-nonsense, real-world advice backed by over three decades in the motoring industry . A regular on radio and TV, he helps Kiwis make smarter calls about car care, safety, and what actually matters behind the wheel.

15 September 2026

Leapmotor's New Zealand launch event marked a significant moment for the Chinese EV brand. With a focus on affordable, technology-rich electric vehicles, the introduction of the BO3x demonstrates that Leapmotor is serious about becoming a mainstream player in our growing EV sector.

Light-colored SUV parked on a gravel road in a coastal dune landscape, photographed from the front three-quarter angle under a clear blue sky. Tall grass-covered sand dunes surround the vehicle, with bright sunlight casting strong shadows and highlighting the car's modern design. A vehicle license plate is visible on the front, and a small lookout platform appears on a dune in the background.

My first impression of the BO3x was overwhelmingly positive. Its clean lines, well-balanced proportions and mid-size SUV stance make it easy on the eye without appearing overly futuristic or aggressive. It looks modern, confident, and should slot comfortably into New Zealand's EV landscape.

The front-end projects a friendly character, while the distinctive rear lighting signature, affectionately described as the ‘haha’ taillights inspired by a smiling face, adds a touch of personality that makes the vehicle genuinely memorable.

The BO3x is aimed squarely at buyers considering a battery electric vehicle as a second family car, although its practicality suggests it could easily serve as a primary vehicle. At just 4.27 metres long, it is compact enough for urban environments yet feels impressively spacious inside. The turning circle is tight, making city manoeuvring straightforward, while the front-wheel-drive platform allows excellent utilisation of interior space.

Front view of a dark green compact SUV displayed indoors at a vehicle launch or showroom event. The car is illuminated by spotlights and positioned on a polished concrete floor, with decorative green foliage and yellow flowering plants arranged around the front passenger-side corner. White draped curtains line the wall on the left, and a large ventilation duct is visible in the background. Visible text includes a front display plate reading “B03X” and branding across the lower front grille.
Rear three-quarter view of a dark green Leapmotor B03X compact SUV on display indoors. The vehicle features illuminated rectangular taillights, prominent LEAPMOTOR lettering across the tailgate, and a B03X model badge and display plate. Decorative greenery and white flowers surround the display, while bright showroom lighting reflects off the vehicle’s glossy paint and polished concrete floor.
View into the rear passenger area of a dark green SUV with the rear door open. The interior features black upholstered seats, a flat rear bench, and two front seats with slim backs. A bright light placed on the floor illuminates the rear footwell, highlighting the legroom between the front and rear seats. The door panels include silver trim accents and integrated speakers, while greenery and event décor are visible through the windows in the background.
Driver’s-eye view of the Leapmotor B03X interior, showing a right-hand-drive layout with a multifunction steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, and large centrally mounted touchscreen displaying vehicle controls. The minimalist dashboard features slim air vents and textured trim, while a floating centre console includes two cupholders and storage space. The vehicle is displayed indoors at a launch event, with decorative plants, lighting equipment, and Leapmotor branding visible through the windscreen.

Practicality is a major highlight, and Leapmotor has worked hard to maximise every available centimetre of cargo space. The boot is 510 litres, complemented by a clever 105-litre ‘giga box’ storage area. The flexible rear seating and smart cargo solutions bring to mind Honda's renowned ‘magic seat’ concept, providing a level of versatility that many buyers will appreciate.

Technology is another area where the BO3x shines. Leapmotor's vertically integrated approach – including its in-house chassis and battery development – makes for a cohesive product. Over-the-air updates are enabled through a built-in 4G connection, removing the need to visit a dealer software improvements. The vehicle also features an AI-powered natural language voice assistant.

Close-up view of the Leapmotor B03X dashboard and infotainment system from the front passenger area. A large central touchscreen displays the vehicle interface, including charging data, media controls, climate settings and a 3D vehicle graphic. The right-hand-drive cockpit features a compact digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and slim air vents beneath the screen. Through the windscreen, a sunny outdoor scene with parked cars, grassy dunes and a clear blue sky is visible.
Low-angle front three-quarter view of a light-coloured Leapmotor B03X electric SUV parked on a gravel road. The image highlights the vehicle’s smooth front-end design, LED headlights, and multi-spoke alloy wheels. Coastal vegetation and sandy dunes line the roadside, while a clear blue sky provides a bright backdrop. Strong sunlight casts defined shadows beneath the vehicle, emphasizing its ground clearance and stance.
Rear three-quarter view of a light-grey Leapmotor B03X electric SUV parked on a gravel road beside coastal sand dunes. The image highlights the vehicle’s rear design, including illuminated LED taillights, LEAPMOTOR lettering across the tailgate, a B03X badge, and multi-spoke alloy wheels. In the background, a surf rescue building sits atop a grassy dune under a clear blue sky, while bright sunlight reflects off the vehicle’s paintwork and rear window.
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Performance figures are respectable for the segment. The BO3x will be available with two LFP battery options: a 39.8kWh unit providing up to 292km WLTP range, and a larger 53.0kWh battery offering up to 382km WLTP.

The smaller battery Life version is capable of delivering 130kW of power, while the larger Design model can offer up to 145kW.

Safety has not been overlooked, with 14 sensors and cameras providing comprehensive monitoring and driver assistance functions. Combined with the anticipated five-star ANCAP rating, the BO3x is designed with protection as a priority.

Overall, Leapmotor's launch left a strong impression. The BO3x offers a compelling blend of styling, practicality, technology, safety and value-focused thinking. If the brand can continue building awareness and dealer support, it has every chance of becoming a serious contender in New Zealand's increasingly competitive EV market.

The BO3x is priced from $37,990 for the Life model and from $42,990 for the Design variant plus on-road costs.

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