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Li Auto L7 Review: Extended-Range Luxury SUV

The Li Auto L7 is a mid-size luxury SUV that combines electric power with a gasoline range extender, offering up to 818 miles of range (WLTP). It’s designed for comfortable family travel, with features like Magic Carpet air suspension, a 21-speaker Dolby Atmos audio system, and unique modes like Queen’s Seat and Double Bed Mode. Powered by dual motors producing 443 hp, it accelerates from 0–60 mph in 5.3 seconds and handles various terrains with ease.

Key highlights:

  • Extended range: Up to 818 miles (WLTP) with hybrid power.
  • Electric-only range: 106–149 miles (WLTC), depending on battery size.
  • Interior luxury: Nappa leather, panoramic sunroof, and advanced entertainment.
  • Pricing: Starts at $48,200.
  • Driver assistance: LiDAR-equipped systems (Max/Ultra trims) with advanced autonomous features.

The L7 is ideal for buyers seeking a long-range, family-friendly SUV with premium features, especially in regions with limited charging infrastructure.

Performance and Powertrain

Dual-Motor AWD System and Range Extender

The Li Auto L7 combines dual electric motors with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, which functions solely as a range extender. The front motor generates 130 kW (174 hp) and 220 Nm of torque, while the rear motor delivers 200 kW (268 hp) and 400 Nm. Together, this setup produces an impressive 330 kW (443 hp) and 620 Nm of torque, propelling the SUV from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.3 seconds.

The range extender continuously charges the battery during long drives, ensuring consistent power without the usual drop-offs. It operates quietly with minimal vibration, and the 65-liter fuel tank allows for quick and convenient refueling. The top speed is electronically capped at 112 mph (180 km/h), making it a practical option for family-oriented use. This powertrain is designed to handle a variety of terrains with ease, offering a balance of performance and reliability.

Driving Dynamics and Terrain Performance

The Magic Carpet Air Suspension Pro enhances the L7’s ride quality with five adjustable ride heights and three driving modes – comfort, standard, and sport. These settings allow the vehicle to adapt seamlessly to smooth highways or rugged off-road conditions. In 2025, the introduction of a dual-chamber air suspension improved the system further, increasing spring rate stiffness by 30% and reducing body roll by 20%, which significantly boosts stability.

When put to the test, the L7 demonstrated strong performance in emergency maneuvers, achieving a moose test speed of about 49 mph. The suspension system also minimizes cabin movement, reducing pitch by 11% during acceleration and 26% during braking. However, some reviewers have noted that the brakes can feel slightly soft under heavy use, likely due to the SUV’s considerable curb weight. While the steering prioritizes comfort over precision, the dual electric motors ensure consistent performance – even at high altitudes where traditional engines often falter.

Extended-Range Capabilities and Battery Technology

Battery Capacity and Combined Range

The Li Auto L7 comes with three battery options: 40.9 kWh, 42.8 kWh, and a new 52.3 kWh pack available starting in 2024. These battery packs, supplied by CATL, Sunwoda, and SVOLT, deliver reliable performance and energy efficiency. On electric power alone, the L7 achieves a range of 106 to 149 miles (170–240 km) under WLTC standards – perfectly suited for most daily commutes.

For extended trips, the combined range depends on the selected battery. The largest battery pack can deliver up to 883 miles (1,421 km) under CLTC standards, while the base configuration offers around 684 miles (1,100 km) under WLTC standards.

"With a CLTC range of 1,315 kilometers and a WLTC range of 1,100 kilometers, Li L7 significantly reduces users’ range anxiety when traveling long distances."

When fully charged and fueled, the system holds the equivalent of over 200 kWh of energy, making it ideal for long road trips or regions with limited charging infrastructure. This dual-power setup enables drivers to enjoy electric-only driving for daily use while maintaining the flexibility of refueling at any gas station for extended journeys. Additionally, the L7 acts as a mobile power source, capable of outputting 3,500 watts to external devices. This feature proves incredibly useful for camping, outdoor activities, or even as an emergency power backup, offering a versatile energy solution.

Charging Options and Time Requirements

The L7’s battery technology is complemented by a range of flexible charging options. Supporting both AC and DC fast charging, the vehicle adapts to various charging infrastructures. Using a DC fast charger, the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes. For home charging, a standard 200V AC connection fully charges the battery in approximately 6.5 hours, making overnight charging simple and convenient.

In areas with limited charging options, the L7’s range extender design provides a practical edge. Its onboard 1.5-liter turbocharged generator keeps the battery charged while driving, eliminating the need for frequent charging stops. This combination of environmental benefits for short commutes and the convenience of a traditional fuel system for long-distance travel ensures the L7 is well-suited for a variety of driving needs.

Interior Design and Luxury Features

Spacious Cabin and Ergonomic Design

The Li Auto L7 boasts a refined interior with an emphasis on space and comfort. The second-row seats offer an impressive 1,160 mm (45.7 inches) of legroom, making long journeys a breeze.

One of the highlights is the Queen’s Seat Mode, designed for the right-side second-row position. This seat offers a 270° wraparound design, upholstered in Nappa leather with high-density sponges for maximum comfort. The backrest reclines between 25° and 40°, and an electric footrest adds an extra layer of relaxation. Li Auto describes it as a seat that "Wraps Your Beloved Snugly in a 270° Embrace". The interior also features 26 to 27 storage compartments, including a sunken central area tailored for handbags or high heels.

For those who enjoy camping, the L7 includes a Double Bed Mode. By removing the headrests and activating Camping Mode, the cabin transforms into a flat sleeping surface measuring 1.5 meters by 2.4 meters (around 5 feet by 8 feet). Up front, the dashboard is outfitted with dual 15.7-inch 3K LCD screens equipped with anti-reflective and low blue light technology. This thoughtful design ensures both elegance and practicality, setting the stage for an elevated driving experience.

Magic Carpet Air Suspension Pro and Premium Audio System

The L7 pairs its spacious interior with advanced features like the Magic Carpet Air Suspension Pro system and a premium audio setup to redefine ride quality and in-car entertainment. The Magic Carpet Air Suspension Pro system uses dual-chamber air springs and continuous damping control to deliver a smooth, cushioned ride. Drivers can choose from five adjustable ride heights and three modes – comfort, standard, and sport. Thanks to a 2025 upgrade, the suspension achieves a 20% reduction in body roll and a 26% improvement in braking pitch.

"One of the best riding SUVs this side of a Rolls-Royce Cullinan" – Top Gear’s Head of Car Testing, Ollie Marriage

The cabin is further enhanced with double-layered, silver-plated heat-insulating glass, which minimizes road and wind noise. Inside, the 21-speaker platinum audio system with a 1,920-watt amplifier delivers an immersive 7.3.4 Dolby Atmos surround sound experience. Reviewers have likened it to a "VIP theater" on wheels. Additional luxe touches include an 8.8-liter refrigerator capable of both cooling and heating, as well as a panoramic sunroof spanning over 1 square meter. These features underscore the L7’s focus on combining luxury with functionality for an unparalleled driving experience.

Driver Assistance and Smart Technology

Li AD Max and Li AD Pro Systems

The L7 stands out with its advanced driver assistance systems, offering two distinct options: Li AD Pro and Li AD Max. These systems combine innovative technology with a focus on safety and performance. Li AD Pro operates on a single Horizon Robotics Journey 5 chip, delivering 128 TOPS (trillion operations per second) and relying on cameras and radar for vision-based perception. On the other hand, Li AD Max steps it up with dual NVIDIA Orin-X chips, boasting 508 TOPS, and incorporates LiDAR for comprehensive 360° awareness.

Li AD Max takes autonomous driving to the next level with All-Scenario Navigation on Autopilot (NOA). This feature handles complex tasks like lane changes, overtaking, navigating roundabouts, and managing intersections without clear markings. Meanwhile, Li AD Pro typically limits NOA to highway environments. Thanks to its LiDAR system, AD Max can detect stopped traffic in low-light conditions at speeds up to 75 mph (120 km/h) and avoid pedestrians at speeds of up to 81 mph (130 km/h).

"The fully self-developed AD Max and AD Pro are ever-growing AI robots, bringing a safer and more convenient Pilot Assistance experience to every user." – Li Auto Inc.

Both systems employ Bird’s Eye View (BEV) models, allowing them to navigate through intersections even when road markings are faded or missing. AD Max also excels at identifying non-standard obstacles like traffic cones, construction barriers, and damaged vehicles, even in nighttime conditions. It can also respond to sudden cut-ins from large trucks. Adding to the convenience, the AI voice assistant, Li Xiang Tong Xue, achieves an impressive 98% activation accuracy and maintains over 90% accuracy even in noisy environments.

Beyond autonomy, the L7 integrates a suite of safety and convenience technologies designed to make every journey smoother and safer.

Safety and Convenience Features

The L7 is packed with features that prioritize both safety and ease of use. Its adaptive LED headlights automatically adjust to driving conditions, ensuring optimal visibility. In snowy conditions, the Snow Mode HUD enhances visibility by switching display text to orange and adjusting brightness based on ambient light. For parking, the system supports automated valet parking (AVP) across multiple floors and allows remote parking in tight spaces.

Inside the cabin, gesture recognition powered by the MVS-NET algorithm offers intuitive control. Passengers can point at windows or screens to activate commands seamlessly. The vehicle’s structural integrity is equally impressive, with a roof designed to withstand loads of up to 12 tons. Additionally, the L7 earned "Double G" (Good) ratings in C-IASI crashworthiness tests for small overlap frontal impacts. With 10 airbags, including rear-seat side airbags, the L7 provides robust protection for all passengers.

These thoughtful features underscore the L7’s commitment to safety and comfort in every detail.

Suitability for African Markets

Performance in African Driving Conditions

The Li Auto L7’s extended-range design is a practical solution for regions with limited charging infrastructure. Thanks to its EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) system and a 65-liter fuel tank, drivers can refuel at standard gas stations when charging stations are scarce. This design not only alleviates range anxiety but also makes the L7 a reliable choice for long-distance travel across Africa’s diverse landscapes.

Equipped with the Magic Carpet air suspension, which offers five adjustable height settings, and a dual-motor AWD system delivering 620 Nm of torque and 330 kW of power, the L7 is built to handle tough terrains and steep mountain roads with ease. The suspension system responds quickly to uneven surfaces, reducing vibrations and ensuring a comfortable ride even on rough, unpaved roads.

Additionally, the L7’s 3,500-watt V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capability turns it into a mobile power hub, perfect for remote work, camping trips, or emergency situations. In hybrid mode, the vehicle provides up to 109 miles of electric-only driving, combining efficiency with versatility.

Charging and Maintenance Infrastructure

For daily commuting, a home charging setup allows owners to maximize the L7’s electric-only range. Its 42.8 kWh battery supports both AC charging for overnight use and DC fast charging, which can charge the battery from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes when a fast charger is available.

However, one of the main hurdles for potential buyers in Africa is the limited after-sales support outside of China. While Li Auto is expanding its global footprint – such as its planned entry into the Philippine market in April 2025 through HomeAuto Incorporated – official service centers in African countries remain scarce. To mitigate this, future owners should consider locating skilled third-party technicians who can manage the hybrid systems and advanced electronics. Ensuring access to high-quality fuel is also essential for maintaining the range-extender engine’s performance over time.

2024 Li Auto L7 EV 1421km range under $48,000 review | Li Auto | China 🇨🇳

Li Auto

Trim Level Comparison

Li Auto L7 Trim Comparison: Pro vs Max vs Ultra Specs

Li Auto L7 Trim Comparison: Pro vs Max vs Ultra Specs

The Li Auto L7 is available in three trims – Pro, Max, and Ultra – each designed to meet different needs. The Pro, priced around $41,917, offers luxury touches like Nappa leather seats and dual-chamber air suspension, making it an appealing choice for those seeking comfort without overspending. The Max steps up with advanced autonomous driving features, LiDAR technology, and a larger battery. At the top of the range, the Ultra combines extended range with premium entertainment options, including a 15.7-inch rear ceiling screen and dual processors for improved performance. Below is a closer look at the differences in battery capacity, autonomous driving systems, and interior features.

Battery and Autonomous Features

The trims differ significantly in their battery size and autonomous driving capabilities. The Pro is equipped with a 42.8 kWh battery and the Li AD Pro system, which delivers 128 TOPS of computing power. In contrast, the Max and Ultra trims feature a larger 52.3 kWh battery and the more advanced Li AD Max system, powered by Nvidia’s Thor-U chip, offering a whopping 700 TOPS.

Range Performance

Range is another area where the trims show variation. The Pro provides a combined CLTC range of 1,360 km (845 miles), including 225 km (140 miles) of electric-only driving. Meanwhile, the Max and Ultra deliver a combined range of 1,421 km (883 miles) and an electric-only range of 286 km (178 miles). This extended range makes the Max and Ultra ideal for longer trips or daily commutes with minimal reliance on gasoline.

Feature Comparison Table

Feature L7 Pro L7 Max L7 Ultra
Battery Capacity 42.8 kWh 52.3 kWh 52.3 kWh
Electric Range (CLTC) 225 km (140 mi) 286 km (178 mi) 286 km (178 mi)
Combined Range (CLTC) 1,360 km (845 mi) 1,421 km (883 mi) 1,421 km (883 mi)
ADAS System Li AD Pro Li AD Max Li AD Max
Computing Power 128 TOPS 700 TOPS 700 TOPS
LiDAR Sensor No Yes (Hesai ATL) Yes (Hesai ATL)
Processor Snapdragon 8295P Snapdragon 8295P Dual Snapdragon 8295P
Rear Entertainment Screen None None 15.7-inch ceiling screen
Audio System 19 speakers 21 speakers 21 speakers (Platinum)
Massage Seats 10-point 16-point 18-point Hot Stone
Suspension Dual-chamber Air Dual-chamber Air Dual-chamber Air

Premium Features of the Ultra Trim

The Ultra trim justifies its higher price – typically $5,000 to $10,000 more than the Pro – with exclusive features like an 18-point massage system and a built-in refrigerator. For those prioritizing safety, the Max and Ultra trims stand out with LiDAR-equipped systems that detect obstacles up to 200 meters away and enable emergency braking at speeds of up to 120 km/h (75 mph), even in complete darkness.

Conclusion

The Li Auto L7 combines impressive range, luxury, and practicality in a way that sets it apart. With a cruising distance of up to 1,315 km (818 miles) under WLTP standards, this extended-range SUV helps ease range anxiety, especially in areas where charging stations might be sparse. Its 1.5L turbo engine works solely as a generator, ensuring a quiet electric ride while offering the flexibility of quick refueling during long trips.

The L7 is designed to cater to a wide variety of driving needs. For buyers in Africa looking for eco-friendly luxury, its Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) system is a standout feature. By offering 170 km to 240 km (106 to 149 miles) of pure electric range, it enables emission-free city driving without compromising the ability to handle long distances. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivers 330 kW (443 hp) and 620 Nm of torque, ensuring strong performance across different terrains. Meanwhile, the Magic Carpet air suspension enhances comfort by effortlessly smoothing out bumpy roads.

"The Li Auto L7 is your ride if you’re scoping out an electric SUV that refuses to be boxed in by range limits." – Alex Garin, Motorwatt

Priced from about $48,200, the L7 strikes an appealing balance between range, luxury, and advanced features. The Pro trim offers excellent value with its premium materials and comfortable air suspension, while the Max and Ultra trims add features like advanced LiDAR systems, larger batteries, and triple 15.7-inch 3K OLED screens for those seeking additional luxury.

For families and long-distance travelers who want a luxury SUV that delivers on both comfort and range, the Li Auto L7 is a strong contender. Its extended-range capabilities, upscale amenities, and competitive pricing make it a great fit for markets where charging infrastructure is still developing and demand for eco-conscious luxury vehicles continues to rise. The L7 proves itself as a versatile option for modern families and adventurers alike.

FAQs

Why is the Li Auto L7 a good choice for areas with limited charging stations?

The Li Auto L7 stands out as a solid choice for places where charging stations are scarce, thanks to its clever extended-range system. Unlike fully electric SUVs, the L7 combines a battery with a gasoline-powered generator, delivering a range of up to 684 miles (1,100 kilometers). This setup helps ease range anxiety and cuts down on the need for frequent charging stops.

This smart design makes the L7 perfect for long trips, even in areas where EV charging infrastructure is still catching up. It offers the comfort and performance of a high-end SUV while eliminating the constant worry about finding a charging station.

What makes the Magic Carpet Air Suspension Pro improve the driving experience?

The Magic Carpet Air Suspension Pro takes driving comfort to the next level by delivering a smoother ride and sharper handling. With its cutting-edge technology, this system adjusts the vehicle’s ride height and damping in real-time, effortlessly absorbing bumps and reducing vibrations. The result? A ride that feels stable, refined, and luxurious, no matter the road conditions.

But it’s not just about comfort – this system is built for performance too. By lowering the vehicle at higher speeds, it enhances aerodynamics and boosts efficiency. This makes it an ideal fit for extended-range SUVs like the Li Auto L7, where every bit of efficiency counts. Whether you’re navigating tight city streets or cruising down the highway, the suspension system adapts effortlessly to any terrain, delivering a perfect balance of comfort, safety, and practicality on every journey.

What sets the Pro, Max, and Ultra trims of the Li Auto L7 apart?

The Li Auto L7 is available in three trims – Pro, Max, and Ultra – each tailored to suit varying preferences and priorities.

  • Pro Trim: Starting at approximately $41,657, this trim delivers a balanced combination of luxury, performance, and extended-range capabilities. It’s an ideal choice for those stepping into the premium SUV market.
  • Max Trim: This version builds on the Pro, incorporating advanced features like enhanced driver-assistance systems and potentially upgraded interior details, offering a more refined experience.
  • Ultra Trim: Positioned as the top-tier option, the Ultra trim provides the highest level of luxury, featuring premium materials, state-of-the-art technology, and the best range efficiency.

In essence, the Pro serves as the entry-level luxury model, the Max adds extra sophistication, and the Ultra sets the standard for ultimate comfort and performance.

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