Li Auto a.k.a. Lixiang has launched the next generation of its Li L6 crossover that only debuted two years ago. White it has retained its plug-in hybrid powertrain, it’s landed with interior upgrades, a stiffer body, and stronger hardware for the latest-gen ADAS on board.
With a body length of 4,935 millimeters (194.3 inches), the second-gen Li L6 measures only 10 mm (0.4”) longer than its predecessor. The width, height and wheelbase stay, the same, making us suspect that this new “generation” is more of a facelift than anything.
On the other hand, the company claims that the new SUV is much stiffer and more stable in corners. This should partially explain why it also weighs nearly 200 kilograms (440 lbs) more than the Gen.1 – whopping 2,520 kilos or 5,555 pounds, to be exact.
Interior changes include new trimming materials said to be higher quality, as well as a new infotainment system powered by a Snapdragon 8797 chipset. There’s also now a mini-fridge in the tunnel, a 21-inch TV for the rear seat occupants, and a premium audio system that can be optioned with either 19 or 21 speakers.
Things stay largely the same under the hood, which in the case of the Li L6 means a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-pot mated to two e-motors installed one per axle. The engine alone churns out 154 PS (152 hp / 113 kW), while the peak hybrid output amounts to 408 PS (402 hp / 300 kW) and 529 Nm (390 lb-ft) of torque.
Battery size is the one aspect where the new car is distinctly superior to the old one. Measured at 51 kilowatt-hours, the new pack yields up to 300 kilometers (186 miles) of CLTC range in all-electric mode. Fire up the engine, and you can get up to 1,250 kilometers (777 miles). Last but not least, the top speed on the highway is now 200 km/h (124 mph), a nice improvement over 180 km/h (112 mph).
Domestic prices start from 249,800 Yuan, which converts into $36,880.