Zeekr is preparing to take on the world of luxury SUVs following the unveiling of the new Zeekr 9X.
The 9X is the fifth model in three years from the Chinese new energy firm and looks set to go head-to-head with Range Rover, Lotus and Bentley in the battle of the bling.
Based on a 900V platform the 9X uses a range-extender powertrain to deliver supercar-like performance in a near-three-tonne SUV body. On top of that, its makers say its opulent interior will bring a new era of luxury motoring.
Zeekr 9X design
Designed at Zeekr’s Swedish studio, 9X is said to blend European design with “attentive craftsmanship” and “opulent features” in a “striking facade”.
Viewed from the front, there are clear echoes of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan – from the huge chromed upright grille and rectangular light signature to the high, flat wings and slab-like sides. From the rear, the sloping D-pillar and rear three-quarters are reminiscent of the latest Range Rover, while a wraparound rear light bar brings a touch of fresh identity.
At 5.2 metres long and 2.2 metres wide, the Zeekr 9X sits somewhere between the two British SUVs in terms of size and is sure to have plenty of road presence.
Zeekr 9X interior
Inside, the six-seat Zeekr 9X is described as an “incomparable relaxation experience”.
Middle row passengers are spoiled with individual reclining seats each equipped with heating, cooling and massage functions, as well as powered leg rests. A standard-fit 32-speaker stereo from Naim offers active noise cancellation and works with a ceiling-mounted 17-inch screen and powered window blinds to create an in-car cinema. There’s even an onboard fridge for refreshments.
Those up front aren’t forgotten about, with heated, cooled massage seats and two massive 16-inch OLED displays which, in typical fashion, control most of the car’s high-tech systems.
Around the cabin, Zeekr has aimed to match existing luxury brands, with hand-polished Nordic wood veneers, Nappa leather upholstery and a faceted crystal rotary controller.
Zeekr 9X powertrain
While Zeekr’s previous European models have been pure EVs, the 9X is a range-extender EV offering eye-opening performance.
Underpinned by 900V architecture and a 55kWh battery, the Zeekr 9X uses two electric motors to deliver a massive 885bhp and 690lb ft. This will get the 2.9-tonne SUV from 0-62mph in just 4.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 149mph.
The battery is charged on the go by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor which acts purely as a generator and never powers the wheels. When parked up, the Zeekr 9X can recharge at up to 330kW, allowing a 10-80% top-up in just nine and a half minutes.
Zeekr estimates that, fully charged, the 9X offers an EV range of up to 111 miles, with a combined range of 458 miles.
Multiple drive modes are intended to cope with various driving demands, supported by adaptive air suspension.
Zeekr 9X price
There’s no word on European pricing for the 9X yet, nor whether the 9X will make it to the UK, although we’re still waiting for any of the brand’s other models to launch here.
In its home market of China, prices start at the equivalent of around £52,000, but given how costs seem to inflate on the journey west, we’d expect a starting price equivalent to around £100,000.
