The updated Leapmotor C16 has officially hit the market, with eight distinct trim levels priced between 145,800 and 169,800 RMB (approximately $20,100 – $23,400 USD). As a mid-cycle refresh, this model introduces six major upgrades spanning exterior design, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements, significantly boosting its overall market competitiveness.
In terms of exterior styling, the new C16 features a refined front fascia with a “Sky Light” split headlight design. The upper section incorporates segmented LED daytime running lights, while the lower section houses the main beams, cornering lights, and intelligent driving indicator lights. The closed grille has been updated to a “Vertical Waterfall” aesthetic, giving the vehicle a more commanding presence reminiscent of the Leapmotor D19.
While the side and rear profiles remain largely consistent with the previous model, the front-end redesign has increased the vehicle’s length by 10mm. The dimensions now stand at 4925/1905/1770mm with a 2825mm wheelbase. The vehicle continues to offer 20-inch and 21-inch wheel options, with two new exterior paint colors—Cloud Gold and Photoelectric White—joining the existing palette.
Inside, the cabin offers two new themes: Sandstone Brown and Starry Purple. The cockpit is upgraded with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, a 17.3-inch 3K central touchscreen, and a 60-inch AR-HUD, all powered by the standard Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P chip. Further refinements include updated air vents, a redesigned wireless charging pad, and 256-color ambient lighting. For intelligent driving, the C16 retains its 128-line LiDAR and 8650 chip setup, now supporting full-scenario point-to-point navigation assistance.
The C16 continues to offer 5-seat and 6-seat configurations. A highlight of this update is the inclusion of dual zero-gravity front seats with electric lumbar/leg support and a 124-degree recline, along with heating, ventilation, and optional 10-point massage. The 6-seat version features second-row seats with electric sliding capabilities, while the 5-seat version offers a flat-folding rear design that creates a 2-meter-long bed. Entertainment is bolstered by a 17.3-inch 3K ceiling-mounted screen, a rear Mini Bar, and a 23-speaker sound system with Dolby Atmos 7.1.4.
Powertrain options include an extended-range version with a 1.5L engine and a 200kW motor, featuring a larger 38.9kWh battery that provides a CLTC pure electric range of 280km and a combined range of 1230km. The pure electric model adopts an 800V architecture with a 230kW motor and an 81.9kWh battery, offering a 630km CLTC range. Both versions now feature FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) for improved ride comfort.
**Editor’s Note:**
Leapmotor recently set a new delivery record of 81,569 units in May. As a core product in the C-series, this refresh offers more value without increasing the price, making its future market performance highly anticipated—the brand may soon hit the 100,000 monthly sales milestone. As the flagship of the C-series, the C16’s updated design and capabilities bring it closer to the D19, effectively bridging the gap in the lineup and significantly strengthening its competitiveness in the 150,000-200,000 RMB family SUV segment.
