Xiaomi SU7 Reliability and Ownership Guide

The SU7 is Xiaomi's first car, leveraging its electronics expertise but lacking a long automotive track record. Key reliability signals include checking for consistent panel gaps, paint quality, and interior trim fitment. Early production units may exhibit minor fit-and-finish issues; look for VINs beyond initial batches. The powertrain uses a proven lithium-ion battery from a major supplier, but thermal management system robustness remains unverified in varied climates. Owners report that software updates have gradually addressed early glitches in infotainment and driver-assist features. A thorough test drive should include hard acceleration, regenerative braking, and charging to identify any drivetrain anomalies.

Routine maintenance is minimal: cabin air filter, brake fluid, and tire rotations. The cabin air filter is accessible under the glovebox for DIY replacement. Brake pads wear slowly due to regenerative braking, but expect replacements around average intervals. The high-voltage battery is expected to retain most of its capacity over the warranty period, though cold-climate degradation is still being monitored. Owners should budget for tire replacements earlier than on sedans with conventional powertrains due to the SU7's weight and performance potential. Certified service centers are sparse outside major markets, so verify local authorized workshops before purchase.

Xiaomi offers a comprehensive warranty covering the vehicle for a competitive duration, including the battery pack. However, warranty terms may vary by region and require full service history at authorized centers. After-sales support is a work in progress: parts availability can be delayed for less common models, and technical expertise on the SU7's complex electronics is still developing. Some owners have reported slow response times for software-related issues. Before buying, confirm that local dealerships have trained technicians and sufficient spare stock for collision repairs. Roadside assistance is included but may rely on third-party providers in some areas.

The SU7's cabin materials are pleasant to touch, but lighter colors show wear quickly. The vegan leather feels durable, but seat bolsters may compress over time for frequent users. The panoramic roof can make the interior warm in summer; the sunshade helps but reduces headroom for tall passengers. Software is the car's core: the central display controls almost everything, and it generally responds swiftly. However, early units experienced occasional screen freezes and connectivity drops that required a reboot. Over-the-air updates have improved stability, but reliance on software means a major bug could render features unusable until patched. The driver-assist suite is competent but not as refined as established competitors; adaptive cruise can be jerky in stop-and-go traffic.

Inspect the paint for orange peel or thin spots, especially on plastic bumpers. Check the frunk and trunk alignment, as misaligned panels indicate inconsistent assembly. Test all windows, sunroof, and door seals for wind noise at highway speeds. Verify the charging port door opens and closes smoothly and that the AC and DC charging work with your local standards. Scan the vehicle's service history for any major software updates or component replacements. On a test drive, switch between drive modes and listen for unusual motor whine or suspension clunks. Finally, confirm that all advanced driver-assistance features (lane keeping, adaptive cruise) engage without error messages.

The Xiaomi SU7 offers an impressive blend of performance, technology, and interior space for its segment, but its reliability and ownership support are unproven. Cautious buyers should wait for a model year update after teething issues are resolved, or choose a more established EV brand with a longer support track record. If you are willing to accept some risk for cutting-edge features and a spacious cabin, the SU7 can be a rewarding ownership experience – provided you have access to a responsive service network and can tolerate occasional software hiccups.