Leapmotor D19 2026: The Chinese Giant Aiming to Dethrone the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS

The new 5.2-meter SUV arrives with both fully electric and range-extended versions. Leapmotor goes all-in with its most ambitious model to date.

While Europe awaits the arrival of the compact Leapmotor B05, China has just witnessed the debut of the D19, a massive SUV set to shake up the segment of luxury full-size vehicles. Developed by the Chinese brand in collaboration with Stellantis, the Leapmotor D19 becomes the company’s flagship, stretching over 5.2 meters long with a 3.1-meter wheelbase, promising limousine-level interior space. Its mission is clear: to take on the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS head-on.

Technological design and commanding presence

The Leapmotor D19’s design follows the brand’s new aesthetic philosophy, Technology Natural Aesthetics 2.0, featuring sleek lines, a three-level headlight setup, and an extra-long roof that accentuates its imposing proportions. One of its most striking elements is the roof-mounted LiDAR system, positioned just above the windshield, working in tandem with a suite of cameras and sensors to power its advanced driver assistance systems. While interior images haven’t been released yet, it’s expected to offer three rows of seats and premium-level comfort worthy of the segment’s elite.

Dual personality: all-electric or range-extended powertrain

The Leapmotor D19 will be available with two powertrain options: fully electric or range-extended (EREV). The pure electric version features two motors—one on each axle—powered by a 115 kWh battery, delivering 724 hp and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds. Thanks to its 1,000-volt architecture, it supports fast charging up to 350 kW and offers a 750 km range, according to China’s optimistic CLTC cycle.

Meanwhile, the EREV version combines a smaller 80.3 kWh battery—the largest ever fitted in a range-extended model—with two electric motors producing 536 hp combined, plus a gasoline engine that generates electricity. Its zero-emission range of 500 km sets a new record for this type of vehicle.

A launch that could redefine Chinese electric luxury

The Leapmotor D19 is set to go on sale in China by mid-2026, though its European arrival remains unconfirmed. However, the brand’s partnership with Stellantis suggests that a global rollout could follow. Should it make it to Europe, the D19 would become one of the largest, most powerful, and technologically advanced electric SUVs on the market, ready to challenge German dominance with a blend of innovation, luxury, and sheer presence.