It’s been at least two years now, but BYD’s Atto 3 SUV remains the most popular car among consumers here. Indeed, it is the most searched model on Sgcarmart because people can’t seem to get enough of it.
But there will always be a portion of buyers who aren’t keen on following trends, even if they have friends and relatives who own the car. These folks want something different or perhaps something more ‘conventional’.
This is a niche that the Neta X can fill. It’s currently priced at $163,888 with non-guaranteed COE, or $4000 less than the Atto 3 (at time of writing). And crucially, the X is a larger car with comparable range as well. But will buyers bite?
X = ?
It is puzzling when a carmaker decides to just name their model using a single letter, even more so when two different carmakers use the same one. Case in point: There’s a Zeekr X, which is also a compact crossover, but a Cat B model in the premium segment.
(Let’s not get into naming conventions, which is a different and probably never-ending discussion.)
The X is, for the moment, Neta’s range-topping model in Singapore. It is a five-seater, Cat A electric crossover with a sleek design that should look fresh to eyes that have grown weary of seeing Atto 3s.
Slim daytime running lights flank a curved, shark-like ‘snout’, while the shoulder lines form sharp creases as they move towards the C-pillars. The rear end, though, looks relatively plain – the single-bar tail-light looks contemporary, but this design element is no longer unique.
As mentioned earlier, the X is larger than its main rival, the BYD Atto 3. Measuring 4619mm long and with a wheelbase length of 2770mm, the X is 164mm longer than the Atto 3 and crucially, has a 50mm longer wheelbase as well.
A SWANKY VIBE
Now, while roominess is important, a car needs an inviting interior to attract buyers, too. The X does this with tan upholstery, which in combination with brass-coloured air vents, door handles, speakers, and steering wheel spokes, lend the cockpit a luxury vibe.
The minimalist layout should please drivers who prefer as few buttons as possible, as most of the controls are concentrated in the 15.6-inch infotainment system.
There’s nothing to complain about graphics-wise, though I did select the light background instead of the dark one because fingerprints and smudges are hidden in this mode. There’s an automated setting that switches between light and dark, too.
While the menus do not go too deep, there are many options, so the organisation could be tidier. The good news is that the screen is responsive and uniquely, about 90% of the menu options have a little ‘i’ beside them. Tap on it and you’ll get information about the feature, which is great for first-time users.
Another useful function is the ability to swap the positions of either half of the screen. Though not equal halves, the key point is that you can bring the map nearer to either the driver or front passenger for easier navigation. It’s not something you’d think of having, but you will be glad it’s there.
The X has a voice assistant that you activate by saying, “Hey Neta”. For convenience, a list of functions it can perform is provided, and the feature is smart enough to know when it’s the driver or passenger who asks for the window to be opened.
You’ll also be happy to discover that the 2770mm wheelbase has been put to good use and resulted in a spacious and comfortable backseat. Legroom and headroom are plentiful, and the high rear backrests can accommodate occupants up to 1.75m tall without the need to extend the headrests just yet.
The X provides a 508-litre boot for your belongings, and if more capacity is needed, folding down the rear backrests expands this to 1388 litres. For versatility, the height can be increased by lowering the boot floor.
A CUSHY EXPERIENCE
The X’s electric motor is tuned to produce 100kW (134bhp) and 210Nm of torque, allowing the crossover to go from a standstill to 100km/h in 9.5 seconds. Top speed is around 150km/h.
The motor is fed by a 62kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery that gives a range of 410km, and the trip computer reflected this figure when the battery was at 100%. However, in real-world urban traffic conditions, the X’s claimed consumption of 5.9km/kWh was only possible during sustained cruising. I averaged slightly lower – 5.2km/kWh – over three days.
Although the X isn’t the quickest electric crossover around, it is faster than the Atto 3, which does the century sprint in 10.1 seconds. Interestingly, there’s actual feedback from the steering wheel, too – you can feel surface undulations along with the wheel movements. The refinement could be better, but the upshot is that the helm doesn’t feel numb/lifeless.
The ride quality is relatively pliant, with the dampers successfully ironing out woolly tarmac. It’s not the quietest powertrain, though, for you’ll hear the whirring of the electric motor. But you know what? That’s actually good, because EVs that are near-silent can give some folks a headache.
To give drivers peace of mind, the X is equipped with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that include Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Neta must improve the regenerative braking, though. Drivers have three levels to choose from, plus a “One-Pedal” setting. However, whether you choose level 1 or level 3, the regenerative braking remains weak.
“One-Pedal” does not seem to work either, for you still need to step on the brakes to stop the car – the X won’t come to a halt after you’ve lifted off the accelerator. Perhaps only the test unit is affected, but I would guess that a software update is required.
GOING AGAINST THE GRAIN
Neta is a newcomer to the EV game. Its parent company, Hozon Auto, has only been around for a decade. In that context, the X is a decent first attempt at a compact crossover that offers generous occupant space, along with a long list of ADAS for safety and convenience.
Like many EVs, the X also has an app that lets you remotely control several functions, such as the air-conditioning. But, the car is still a bit rough around the edges. The infotainment could be more intuitive, the ride quality could be further refined, and the regenerative braking needs to be stronger.
But if you’re in the market for an electric crossover and don’t want an Atto 3 like everyone else, take the X out for a spin. Taking the road less travelled could result in a very interesting journey.
Neta X (A)
MOTOR Permanent magnet synchronous
MAX POWER 100kW (134hp)
MAX TORQUE 210Nm
GEARBOX Single-speed
POWER TO WEIGHT 57.5kW per tonne (77hp per tonne)
0-100KM/H 9.5 seconds
TOP SPEED 150km/h
BATTERY 62kWh
RANGE 410km (WLTP)
CONSUMPTION 5.9km/kWh
PRICE INCL. COE From $163,888
AGENT Evology Automobile
