Lepas L8: Premium Comfort Without the Premium Price

The Lepas L8 is a new plug-in hybrid SUV from a brand you might not have heard of yet, combining distinctive styling with plenty of practicality and a surprisingly premium specification. Although Lepas is new to the UK market, it's part of the Chery Group, which has been manufacturing cars around the world for years. We've been spending some time with the L8 to find out what it has to offer. Distinctive exterior styling The Lepas L8 has a familiar SUV shape, but there are a few design details that help it stand out. At the front, you'll find distinctive 'leopard eye' headlights alongside a large cross-pattern grille that gives the L8 plenty of road presence. It's a bold combination that helps distinguish it from some of the more familiar SUVs on UK roads. Practicality and boot space Practicality is one of the L8's strong points. The boot is impressively deep, with plenty of room for everyday essentials, whether that's the weekly shop or a pushchair. There's also useful underfloor storage for the charging cable, helping keep it separate from the rest of your luggage. It's a small detail, but one that makes living with a plug-in hybrid that bit easier. Interior comfort and space Step inside and there's plenty of room throughout the cabin, with a choice of black or Desert Clay synthetic leather upholstery. The interior has a spacious, comfortable feel, with a focus on creating a more premium experience without pushing the price into traditional luxury SUV territory. For drivers who regularly carry passengers or spend plenty of time on the road, it's an appealing combination. Driving experience Out on the road, the Lepas L8 is smooth, comfortable and straightforward to drive. The controls feel responsive, and there's plenty of power available when you need it without the car feeling overly aggressive. It's an easy-going driving experience that suits the L8's role as a practical family SUV. Essence and Elevate trim levels The Lepas L8 is available in two trim levels: Essence and Elevate. The range-topping Elevate adds several premium features, including larger alloy wheels, a 540-degree camera systemand heated, ventilated and massaging seats. It's an impressive selection of comfort and technology features, particularly given the L8's pricing. Plug-in hybrid range Both versions of the Lepas L8 use the same plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering up to 59 miles of electric-only range. That gives drivers the potential to complete plenty of shorter journeys using electric power alone, while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips. For those who can charge regularly, it could be an appealing balance between electric driving and everyday convenience. Lepas L8 pricing Prices start at just under £35,000 for the Essence, rising to just under £38,000 for the Elevate. Considering the space, technology and comfort features available, the L8 offers plenty to think about in an increasingly competitive SUV market. But with so many new and established brands fighting for attention, will the Lepas L8 manage to stand out? One Minute Motors is our Leasing Options video series offering an accessible overview of the latest cars. We look at the details that matter to everyday drivers, from styling and practicality to technology, performance and pricing.