At the Chengdu Auto Show, theΒ Xpeng Mona M03Β (see specs) was announced; within 48 hours of its debut, the vehicle secured over 30,000 lock-in orders (non-refundable deposits), signaling significant market interest. This compact electric sedan is designed for budget-conscious buyers and positioned as a more affordable alternative to Teslaβs Model 3. Starting at 119,800 yuan (roughly 16,900 USD), it offers a more affordable alternative focusing on range and aerodynamic efficiency.
Xiaopeng, Xpengβs CEO, emphasized the importance of the Mona M03 for the companyβs broader strategy. As the Xpeng P5 is being phased out, the Mona M03 is not merely a budget replacement. It boasts a drag coefficient of 0.194, the lowest ever for a mass-produced electric sedan. This low drag is crucial in reaching a maximum range of 620 kilometers despite using a relatively modest 62.2 kWh battery supplied by BYDβs FinDreams. The vehicle has a 140 kW or 160 kW motor, offering respectable performance. The vehicleβs weightβtopping at just 1,739 kgβenhances the range and overall energy efficiency.
Exterior Design
The focus on aerodynamics extends beyond the bodyβs sleek design. Xpeng has incorporated an active air intake grille that adjusts dynamically based on driving conditions, improving the vehicleβs drag profile. The Mona M03 also underwent over 100 hours of wind tunnel testing, with Xpeng making 15 critical design adjustments to optimize airflow further. The result is a model that benefits from around 60 kilometers of additional range compared to similar-sized competitors, highlighting Xpengβs commitment to practical performance. The doors closed with a satisfying thud, reflecting their precise alignment and the attention to detail in the paneling. Despite its price, Xpeng did not cut corners with the M03. The paintwork had a refined, smooth finish, underscoring the quality of craftsmanship.
The Interior
The Xpeng Mona M03 features a minimalist interior with a 15.6-inch display powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, which is surprisingly snappy. It supports advanced features like 3D mapping and a 360-degree camera. A compact steering wheel screen, available for 599 yuan, offers essential information without distraction. Hidden air vents contribute to the clean design and provide automatic airflow adjustments, though they lack separate temperature controls. The redesigned interface appears youthful and cleaner but may require some time to master due to its hidden quirks and configurations. As we previously tested the Xpeng X9 MPV, the system might frustrate those expecting a plug-and-play experience. On the upside, the 18-speaker 7.1.4 audio system delivers a rich, immersive sound experience, enhancing longer drives.
While the M03 positions itself as a Tesla Model 3 competitor, it introduces its distinctions, like its practical torsion beam suspension that allows for an 81-liter trunk, easily accommodating a 28-inch suitcase and additional items. This design choice, though, comes with a trade-off in rear-seat comfort, where passengers may find themselves in a slightly recessed seating position despite the generous headroom provided by the panoramic sunroof. Rear passenger comfort is sacrificed for ample trunk space.
Storage
The liftback offers a generous 621-liter of trunk capacity. When the rear seats are folded down, 1603-liter capacity will be available.
Driving Experience
Performance-wise, the Xpeng M03 isnβt chasing records but holds its own. Our test car is the 160 kW version. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds, which is respectable but not thrilling. Where the M03 shines is its agility, particularly in tight city environments. The carβs turning radius of just 5.3 meters is impressive for its size (2.8-meter wheelbase, almost 4.8 meters long), giving it a nimbleness that belies its dimensions. The steering feels quick but not overly twitchy β a deliberate choice that avoids the hyper-responsiveness of sportier models like the Xiaomi SU7. Itβs well-calibrated for relaxed driving, requiring minimal steering input to make precise maneuvers.
Despite its front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension, the carβs handling holds up under pressure, especially for those who value comfort over sharp cornering performance. However, rear passengers may notice some jarring from the suspension over bumps, a limitation that Xpengβs engineers acknowledge.
The M03 also introduces tech sophistication that hints at high-level autonomous driving, but donβt be fooled by the visuals. The initial models wonβt support full autonomy, offering only Lane Centering Control (LCC), with more advanced self-driving features planned for future updates. Still, its existing driver assistance systems make it a solid option for first-time EV owners or those looking for a more leisurely drive in dense traffic.
In essence, the Xpeng M03 balances cost-effective production and feature-rich driving. Its suspension may not cater to driving purists, but for those seeking a comfortable, high-tech ride with solid practicality, the M03 delivers where it counts without the premium price tag.
Range
The M03βs low energy consumption of 1.5 kWh per 100 km means youβre looking at a maximum range of 620 km CTLC, ideal for long commutes without frequent recharging. Xpengβs real-world energy estimates tend to be reliable, so the car will likely exceed expectations in day-to-day driving.
Safety Features
What sets the Mona M03 apart is that its L2 system is standard across all trims, a feature typically reserved for higher-end models by other brands. Additionally, the M03βs driver monitoring is stringent, incorporating both a torque sensor and an eyeline camera to promptly alert drivers if they take their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road.
The M03 also comes equipped with comprehensive safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, a 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance, multiple airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Conclusion
To sum up, the Xpeng M03 effectively merges affordability with a high-tech driving experience. While it might not satisfy enthusiasts looking for a sporty suspension, it delivers comfort and advanced features at a competitive price, making it an attractive choice for those who value practicality and innovation without a premium cost.
The forthcoming Mona M03 580 Max, slated for release after the Lunar New Year 2025, will introduce Xpengβs XNGP autonomous driving system, utilizing 12 cameras and radar instead of lidar. Coupled with the Nvidia Orin X chip, this model aims to provide advanced driving capabilities at a more accessible price point. This strategy reflects Xpengβs ambition to appeal to younger, first-time EV buyers and expand its market presence. The key to its success will be achieving sufficient sales volume to balance lower profit margins and support long-term profitability.
Stay tuned for next weekβsΒ Sunday China DriveΒ atΒ Car News China, where you can read more first-person evaluations of Chinese cars.
