2026 Zeekr 9X overview: Fast drive

The Chinese language aren’t simply making ‘low cost’ automobiles anymore – one thing that is no higher evidenced than by Zeekr, premium arm of the Geely Auto Group.

Whereas the Chinese language model’s story began in Australia with the Volvo EX30-based Zeekr X small electrical SUV after which continued with the Tesla Mannequin Y-fighting 7X mid-size SUV, it really all started with the 001 electrical taking pictures brake at the start of this decade – a mannequin which has the identical DNA because the Polestar 4 and pioneered the model’s improvement of high-performance electrical automobile (EV) applied sciences.

Simply 5 years on from the model’s first mannequin, Zeekr is now seeking to tackle the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz with a automobile that pulls design inspiration from the ultra-luxury segments, with styling components from Vary Rover, Rolls-Royce and Bentley all woven into the exterior and inside.

The 2026 Zeekr 9X was revealed ultimately yr’s Shanghai motor present (Auto China 2025) because the Zeekr model’s first hybrid mannequin – higher labeled as an extended-range electrical automobile (EREV) – and attracted at least 40,000 home orders throughout the first hour after it went on sale.

It isn’t only a low cost copy of a longtime luxurious automotive both. The 9X presents a collection of high-end applied sciences like adaptive air suspension and lively anti-roll stabilisation, dual-megapixel headlights, a premium sound system from Naim (Bentley’s cost-option audio provider), and an accessible tri-motor EREV drivetrain producing over 1000kW of energy and 1400Nm of torque – sufficient for a claimed 0-100km/h time of simply 3.1 seconds.

Endure from vary anxiousness? The 9X’s plug-in EREV system boasts lofty EV driving claims of 300km-plus per cost primarily based on China’s extra lenient CLTC commonplace, and a claimed mixed vary of over 1200km from a full tank of gasoline and a totally charged battery.

Throw in as much as three rows of seating and sufficient comfort and luxurious options to make it really feel like enterprise class journey, and it appears like a fairly whole lot for a automobile that begins from ¥465,900 (A$94,397) within the Chinese language home market.

Zeekr Australia has confirmed the 9X for this market, the place it is set to reach in native showrooms both in late 2026 or early 2027, and has sparked a number of curiosity in CarExpert‘s feedback part in addition to on social media platforms.

Does it reside as much as all of the hype? Properly, we obtained a really temporary first style at Geely’s Hangzhou HQ following final month’s Beijing motor present – learn on to seek out out extra.

How a lot does the Zeekr 9X value?

The brief reply is we do not know but.

As famous earlier, the 9X begins from ¥465,900 (A$94,397) in China for the entry-level ‘Max’, which will get a smaller 55kWh battery pack and 660kW dual-motor EREV powertrain. Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 3.9 seconds, with CLTC EV vary rated at 300km.

On the high of the tree is the Extremely, which at ¥559,900 (A$113,442) ups the ante with a large 70kWh battery and a 1030kW tri-motor drivetrain, good for 355km of claimed CLTC electrical vary and a 0-100km/h declare of simply 3.1 seconds.

There’s additionally a mid-spec Extremely grade with each 55kWh and 70kWh battery choices, and a 968kW dual-motor EREV drivetrain. Zeekr has additionally launched an Obsidian Black Version flagship for a lofty ¥599,900 (A$121,547), which will get distinctive black pack-style upgrades and all accessible choice bins ticked as commonplace.

Whereas the 9X’s hefty 5239mm size, 2029mm width and 1819mm peak make it certifiably upper-large in dimension, and it has straight-line efficiency to rival a Bentley Bentayga Velocity, even the most costly variant prices across the similar as a base BMW X5 in China, the place it is priced from ¥598,000 (A$121,162) for the elongated joint-venture mannequin offered there.

In Australia, a beginning worth of even $110,000-$120,000 for the Zeekr 9X would place the large Chinese language SUV favourably towards established German fashions just like the Audi Q7 (from $108,815), BMW X5 (from $139,900) and Mercedes-Benz GLE (from $136,600), all of that are smaller and dearer spec-for-spec.

Time will inform, however Zeekr’s worth positioning will certainly play a key position in whether or not the 9X sells in first rate numbers Down Beneath.

What’s the Zeekr 9X like on the within?

Zeekr has very liberally utilized real Nappa leather-based upholstery all through the inside, with its Chinese language public web site claiming “all areas of the automotive seats that come into contact with the physique, the centre armrest and components of the door panels” are completed in the true stuff.

We did not get an extended sufficient stint to do a full cabin breakdown or actually get a really feel for the construct high quality, however there is definitely an opulent atmosphere in right here.

The Nappa conceal is offered in a number of dual-tone colourways, and accented with prospers of steel and pure wooden trims, plus quilting and perforation detailing that actually goes that additional mile.

Search for and the roofliner is completed in a beautiful suede, and there are a number of seating configurations accessible – a minimum of in China – which go an extended method to make rear passengers really feel as snug as these up entrance, if no more so.

Second-row occupants can make the most of the ‘Cloud Seat’ captain’s chairs, which may be adjusted right into a enterprise class-style recliner configuration and provide heating, cooling and therapeutic massage capabilities, in addition to having the ability to be rotated to face the third row in an government meeting-style format.

Even the third row can slide fore and aft in addition to recline, electrically, for elevated consolation. There is a one-touch energy entry perform from the second row into the third, whereas the six-seat configuration has a corridor-like hole to permit entry into the again, like a folks mover.

Zeekr has additionally indicated plans to promote an much more plush ‘9X Grand’ specification with a four-seat limousine-style format that apes the choices accessible in Bentley’s and Rolls-Royce’s ultra-luxury SUVs.

Again to the primary row, and there is a digital driver’s instrument cluster augmented by twin 16-inch OLED infotainment touchscreens within the centre and forward of the entrance passenger, every boasting 3.5K decision. In China, you can even choose to delete the entrance passenger show – which I personally desire and may be an choice in Australia.

Zeekr additionally claims a 47-inch show space for its augmented actuality (AR) color head-up show, which additionally claims peak brightness of 20,000 nits. Sadly we did not actually spend sufficient time with the automotive to get a gauge of its effectiveness, however the numbers are spectacular nonetheless.

There is a litany of different niceties too, not restricted to a 17-inch 3K flip-down rear passenger leisure show, a totally built-in AI assistant for the automobile shows and software program options, a rear fridge to your champers, energy rear sunshades, totally customisable ambient lighting, and a twin sunroof with opening entrance part.

All this in a cabin accessed through electrical doorways entrance and rear, in one other nod to Rolls-Royce.

Our brief time with the automobile did not permit us to mess around with the rear seats, however the second row has loads of area and adjustability for even taller adults like 6’1″ me, and the electrical adjustment of the second and third rows ought to permit adults to slot in the rearmost row as effectively.

Additional again, Zeekr quotes a 470-litre cargo space accessed through a Cullinan- or Vary Rover-style break up tailgate, which extends to a cavernous 2148L with the rear seats folded.

What’s underneath the bonnet?

Whereas initially labelled as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the Zeekr 9X’s powertrain might be higher described as an extended-range electrical automobile (EREV), teaming a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine with both two or three electrical motors and a big lithium-ion battery pack.

It is unclear which variants will make it to Australia, however little doubt the tri-motor flagship might be excessive on the precedence record given Australia’s thirst for top-end efficiency flagships.

Additionally value noting is the variations between CLTC and WLTC effectivity and vary claims, the latter of which is extra correct in the true world.

We examined the flagship ‘Hyper’ model with the 1000kW-plus tri-motor drivetrain, however in accordance with official specs the usual dual-motor model itself is hardly ‘sluggish’ for such a big automobile.

How does the Zeekr 9X drive?

Let me begin by managing your expectations – our check drive was restricted to 90 metres of acceleration testing, adopted by braking, then velocity humps and a ‘moose check’-style dealing with course round obstacles in what was principally a flat carpark.

So, as you may think about, my first impressions of the Zeekr 9X are fairly temporary, however I can a minimum of present some early suggestions on acceleration efficiency and really feel, in addition to some trip and dealing with appraisal.

Whereas the specs sound monstrous on paper, the 9X builds acceleration in a really clean and easy manner, extra like a Rolls-Royce than a BMW M-car. Slam the throttle and the nostril lifts barely in direction of the sky like a velocity boat, and it in a short time builds up velocity.

The acceleration check was a 90m straight marked out by cones, and we managed to hit an indicated 100km/h with out a lot effort.

Exhausting on the brakes, you may really feel the 9X’s weight shift ahead, however the flagship mannequin’s six-piston entrance brakes did pull it up pretty confidently with out a lot fuss.

Heading into the left-hand flip, it is fairly clear the 9X is tuned for consolation moderately than directness, although there is a fluidity and accuracy to the steering which makes it manageable for such a giant bus.

Keep in mind, this SUV measures over 5.2m lengthy and a pair of.0m extensive, so it is a massive factor. The comparatively sharp response of the sunshine and generously assisted steering makes it really feel pointier on the entrance than you’d count on, although there’s nonetheless no hiding its sheer heft.

There’s the added layer of the adaptive air suspension and 48V lively anti-roll system working underneath you in higher-spec fashions, which assist restrict physique motion when accelerating, braking and cornering.

When turning, the restricted physique lean detectable from the cabin can really feel somewhat odd at first, given the 9X’s dimension and weight can nonetheless be felt considerably. Nonetheless, it is spectacular the way it isolates the cabin from exterior forces.

Pushed with measure, the 9X feels correct, safe and comparatively manoeuvrable given its dimension, however if you happen to’re a eager driver and wish higher response and engagement you would be higher off going for the smaller 8X, which is pitched as extra of a driver-oriented moderately than passenger-focused SUV.

That stated, the tough velocity bumps transmitted sharper forces via the chassis than I anticipated, given the 9X has air suspension to offset its large 22-inch cast monobloc-style alloys, however extra diversified testing on public roads will give us a greater concept of the 9X’s on-road behaviour once we finally get to drive it outdoors what was a carpark.

What do you get?

Rather a lot, really.

2026 Zeekr 9X commonplace gear highlights in China:

• Matrix LED headlights
• Energetic grille
• Comfortable-close doorways
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Panoramic sunroof – openable
• Secondary sunroof – third row
• Double-glazed glass – entrance, sides (1st, 2nd, third rows)
• Aspect mirrors – electrical, folding, heated, tilting
• Rear energy sunshades – second row aspect
• 13-inch HD digital instrument cluster
• 16-inch 3.5K OLED infotainment and passenger touchscreens
• 47-inch AR head-up show
• 5G dual-SIM communication module
• Digital rear-view mirror
• 32-speaker sound system
• 3-zone local weather management
• Clever perfume system
• PM2.5 detection and filtration
• 50W wi-fi telephone charging
• Nappa leather-based upholstery
• Suede headliner
• Nordic pure wooden veneer
• Crystal quantity knob
• 16.8-million color ambient lighting
• 4-way energy steering wheel adjustment incl. reminiscence
• Heated steering wheel
• 14-way energy entrance seats
• Entrance seats – heated, ventilated, massaging
• 2nd row zero-gravity seats
• 14-way energy 2nd row seats incl. leg rests
• 2nd row seats – heated, ventilated, massaging
• Rear tray tables
• 4-way energy third row seats
• One-touch entry/exit
• third row seats – heated
• 220V energy outlet in boot

Choices

Even with the lengthy record of ordinary gear, a lot of choices can be found in China.

Mid-spec variations provide the choice to spec a bigger 70kWh battery, in addition to the 48V lively anti-roll system. Throughout the vary, you may add an electrical trailer hitch, rotating second-row seating (base and mid-grades), a Naim Palace premium audio system, and a 17-inch OLED rear show.

It’s also possible to delete the secondary 16-inch passenger touchscreen if you would like a cleaner look, and there are power-operated doorways accessible too.

Is the Zeekr 9X protected?

The 9X hasn’t been crash-tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP simply but, however Zeekr’s flagship SUV comes decked out with a full suite of security and help applied sciences.

Commonplace security options embody:

• Adaptive cruise management
• Anti-misacceleration help
• Computerized parking help
• Autonomous Emergency Braking – AEB
• Autonomous Emergency Steering
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Door opening warning
• Ahead collision warning
• Lane change help
• Lane departure warning, help
• Lead automobile departure alert
• Entrance cross-traffic warning, help
• Rearward collision mitigation
• Rear cross-traffic warning, help
• Distant automated parking
• Distant direct-in/out parking
• Visitors gentle reminder
• Visitors signal recognition

The usual driver help bundle consists of the NVIDIA Drive Thor-U chip, LiDAR and an array of cameras and different sensors, with the choice to improve to an much more subtle dual-NVIDIA setup for autonomous driving functionality in China.

How a lot does the Zeekr 9X value to run?

The 9X is not on sale in Australia but, however the Zeekr X and 7X are at the moment coated by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre guarantee for personal consumers. Industrial and fleet prospects solely get a three-year, 120,000km guarantee.

Service intervals and pricing might be confirmed nearer to the 9X’s Australian launch.

CarExpert’s Tackle the Zeekr 9X

It’s kind of early to provide a definitive verdict on Zeekr’s new flagship SUV given the brevity of our first drive.

That stated, if Zeekr can land it right here underneath the beginning worth of a BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE, prefer it does in China, it may get the Chinese language model into the identical dialog as the posh stalwarts.

The 9X appears to be like, as the children would say, “baller”. Add to that the monstrous straight-line efficiency, lengthy electric-only and mixed driving ranges, and sufficient screens and luxurious gadgets to overstimulate the senses of your passengers, and it could be sufficient to get loads of Aussies over the road.

Clearly, $100,000-plus is nothing to sneeze at for any new automotive, not to mention one from a comparatively new Chinese language model. However the success of the 7X on the gross sales charts exhibits that the model is constructing momentum Down Beneath, maybe extra so than a few of its compatriots.

Personally, I like the appears to be like and the atmosphere the 9X presents, and I think most potential consumers will not be needing a nook carver – so so long as it rides comfortably over poorly surfaced Melbourne and Sydney roads, for instance. I obtained loads of messages about this automotive whereas I used to be travelling too, which means that if the value is correct, prospects will come.

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