We Test the Livan X3 Pro: The Chinese SUV That Wants to Dethrone the Dacia Sandero Stepway

The new Livan X3 Pro arrives from China with a clear mission: to offer more for less.

This urban SUV, built by the Geely Group (the parent company of Volvo, Polestar and Lotus), aims to win over Spanish buyers with an aggressive price tag and a straightforward, practical approach. But is that enough to take on the unbeatable Dacia Sandero Stepway?

A clean design with a few surprises

Unlike other Chinese SUVs that go all in on flashy looks, the Livan X3 Pro keeps things simple and functional. Its design is balanced, free from oversized grilles or over-styled lines. Measuring 4.01 metres in length, it’s perfectly suited for city driving, though its 1.76-metre width limits rear-seat comfort slightly. Flared wheel arches and 16-inch alloy wheels give it a touch of personality that helps it stand out from the crowd.

A straightforward yet functional interior

Inside, the X3 Pro keeps things traditional: analogue dials and a central 8-inch touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (via an optional accessory). The materials used aren’t premium, but they feel solid enough for the price. Rear legroom is good, although the middle seat is tight, and the 245-litre boot is small but practical for everyday urban use.

A modest but efficient engine

Power comes from a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine delivering 103 hp, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. The 0–100 km/h sprint in 13 seconds and 170 km/h top speed won’t turn heads, but the car performs well around town and on short trips. With a claimed fuel consumption of 7.2 l/100 km, it’s reasonably efficient, though motorway use can raise that figure. On the road, it offers a comfortable ride and light steering, clearly tuned for city use rather than twisty backroads.

Price: its strongest argument

Here’s where the Livan X3 Pro really shines: €16,995 on the road. For that money, you get air conditioning, a rear-view camera, LED daytime running lights, and a five-year warranty. It may not match the Dacia Sandero Stepway in efficiency, but it stands out as an affordable, simple, and practical SUV option. Livan enters the European market with confidence — and with a model that could finally make the segment’s long-time leader look over its shoulder.