XPENG X9 Shows What Is The True Meaning Of Luxury Today

We test drive the XPENG X9 Premium MPV Over A Few Days

The XPENG X9 is a battery powered all electric, seven-seat luxury MPV from Chinese automaker XPENG. This MPV was launched in Malaysia with pricing that starts from just RM269,888 and moves up a little to RM299,888.

Just 4 weeks after its launch in Sunway mall, XPENG had already 300 firm buyers and it kept rising. This shows the rising interest in all electric MPV’s in Malaysia.

Important need to know facts about this X9:

• This X9 features a high-strength steel-aluminum hybrid body, advanced safety features and a possible driving range of up to 590km (long-range variant priced at RM299k) according to WLTP.

• The X9 is designed as a spacious MPV, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably.

• The X9 is equipped with a range of premium features, including a large central display, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a high-end audio system.

• The X9 boasts a high-strength hybrid body, extra-large side curtain airbags, and a comprehensive suite of safety features like XPILOT 2.5.

• The X9 has an 800V high-voltage SiC platform and 3C battery cells. All variants sold in Malaysia use a single front-mounted motor that outputs 315hp and 450Nm of torque. This delivers a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.7 seconds.

• The long-range X9 variant offers up to 590 km on a single charge, while the standard range variant provides up to 500 km, according to the WLTP cycle.

• The X9 is equipped with an 800-volt architecture, enabling fast charging and a 10-80% charge in under 12 minutes.

So, what about the premium cabin space. Well, the driver’s cockpit has a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and there is a large 17.3-inch touch infotainment display in the center of the dashboard that has all the necessary functions inside (this is the ‘epic-center’).

For the middle and back row passengers, in the X9 there is a powered ceiling-mounted 21.4-inch TV screen that folds open and close with button touch. There is a 23-speaker 7.1.6 XOpera audio system paired with a 2180 W amplifier for concert like sound. This pair will deliver a cinematic experience that is hard to beat in the rival people movers.

For on the road comfort, there is a five-zone climate control system with rear ceiling vents (6000 little holes all around the cabin ceiling delivery cool air), a CN95 air filtration and a negative ion generator. The middle row passengers on powered captain ‘zero gravity’ seats have access to an electric refrigerator.

3^rd row seats and also headrests are powered on both left and right hand side with Type C sockets ready. Two adults get good comfort in the 3^rd row and 3 might be a little tight, but the seats recline to offer snoozing possibilities.  

The third-row seats can be electrically folded with a single click, expanding the boot space to an impressive 2,554L – spacious enough for 2 large 20″ suitcases and more.

Being Driven

Well, fact. This is luxury people mover for buyers to enjoy the rear and not for them to drive. The chauffer will have an impressive 5.4m turning radius to move this large vehicle around car parks and housing area shops. The X9 comes with a rear steer system to allow for this tight turning radius and easier side parking.

Middle row comfort is superb and competes head on with the current champion, the Toyota Alphard. With air suspension included, the ride in the city is great, even on pot-hole Petaling Jaya roads and even better on the open highway as it glides on to your destination.

Driven

The driver has a luxurious seating with ample space for all possible heights and widths. Yes, burly drivers will get comfortable and vehicle operation will need some tutoring, but its easy to absorb after a few days.

By the way, this X9, like its sibling the G6 has an interesting self parking feature that is impressive to use. The software powering this is XPeng’s XOS Tianji software, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295. It is impressive in operation and is able to detect even badly marked parking spaces.

The X9 comes with a five-year, 120,000-km manufacturer warranty, five-year, 100,000-km free scheduled maintenance, and an eight-year, 160,000-km battery and motor warranty. (whichever comes first).

XPENG X9 Long Range 2WD Pro Plus Specifications

Motor: Single Motor (FWD)

Range: 590km

Battery: 101.5kWh

Charging Speed: 317kWh DC (10-80% in 20 minutes), 11kW AC 11.0 hours 5-100%)

Max power: 235hp

Max torque: 315Nm

Combined Torque: 450Nm

Top Speed: 200 km/h

0-100 km/h: 7.7 seconds

Selling Price: RM299,888.00