2027 Leapmotor C10 update coming early next year to boost fortunes of slow-selling 2026 Geely EX5, BYD Sealion 6 electric SUV rival

2026 Leapmotor C10.

The Leapmotor C10 is a medium SUV offered in Australia as both a battery-electric vehicle and a range-extender electric vehicle. It was the brand's first model developed for markets beyond China, but its arrival has been followed by intense competition from newer electric and electrified SUVs.

A significant update is being discussed for early 2027. Leapmotor International executive Danilo Annese described the change as an evolution involving new hardware and software rather than a new-generation vehicle or a major facelift. The timing and specification for Australia have not been confirmed.

The possible update is notable because the C10 has attracted criticism for its technology and driving experience. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were absent at launch, with the vehicle instead relying on its own native multimedia system. Leapmotor has since included smartphone connectivity in newer models such as the B10, suggesting that the C10 could eventually receive similar functionality, although this remains unconfirmed.

China has already received a refreshed C10 featuring revised exterior detailing, including a new Sky Light headlight design and grille, along with changes to the interior colour scheme. The Chinese-market technology revisions include a 60-inch head-up display, a 17.3-inch multimedia screen, a Qualcomm 8295P cockpit processor and an additional chip intended to support full navigation assistance. It is not yet clear whether the same equipment will be offered in global markets.

The C10's Australian performance has been modest, with 331 examples reported as sold to the end of August 2026. That result represented a 13 per cent decline compared with the same period a year earlier, while rival Chinese SUVs such as the Geely EX5 and Starray EM-i recorded substantially stronger sales. Reviews have also raised concerns about ride quality, throttle calibration, driver-assistance intervention and the operation of the vehicle's technology.

That leaves the proposed update with several areas to address. New hardware could provide the foundation for improved multimedia and driver-assistance systems, while software changes may refine the C10's interface and on-road behaviour. However, the available information does not establish which of these issues will be resolved, or whether the Chinese-market design and technology changes will reach Australia.

• Medium electric SUV available in EV and REEV forms
• Early 2027 hardware and software update under discussion
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available at launch
• Chinese-market refresh includes revised styling and upgraded cabin technology

Other highlights include Powertrain: Electric and range-extender electric vehicle.