Xpeng X9 launched in Malaysia, priced from RM270,708

While the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire will still have their  substantial share of loyalists, those who prefer an alternative now have appealing choices from ZEEKR and DENZA. And a third choice in the luxury MPV space is the new Xpeng X9 which makes its official debut in Malaysia.

Dubbed the ‘Starship’, the X9 is the flagship MPV of the automaker which was founded by two ex-GAC executives in 2014. It is one of two models (the other being the G6 launched here in August 2024) which Xpeng is selling globally in over 30 markets, with the ASEAN markets now getting the model.

Priced from RM270,708 (without insurance and duty-free), the X9 is offered in 3 versions –  Standard Range 2WD Pro, Long Range 2WD Pro and Long Range 2WD Pro Plus. There is an all-wheel drive variant but Xpeng Malaysia isn’t offering it at this time.

Click here for full spec sheet of all variants

The X9 is built around the brand’s Smart Electric Platform Architecture (SEPA) 2.0 with a fully electric powertrain. A front-mounted motor generates 235 kW (315 ps)/450 Nm. The output gives the MPV, which weighs around 2,600 kgs, a capability of 7.7 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed of 200 km/h.

The battery sizes differ, with the Standard Range version having a smaller 84.5 kWh capacity while the Long Range versions are fitted with 101.5 kWh battery packs. The chemistry is also different – the smaller battery is the LFP (lithium iron phosphate) type while the bigger one is NMC (nickel-manganese cobalt).

Range, like fuel consumption, is dependent on driving conditions though the good aerodynamics (0.236 Cd) contribute to going further. The Standard Range X9 is claimed to have a range of up to 500 kms while the Long Range can go up to 590 kms. Interestingly, the range of the Long Range is about 18% more but the battery capacity is 20% more.

Charging times depend on the type and strength of the power supply and manufacturers will obviously quote the best possible scenario. In the case of the X9, the 800V architecture accepts a DC power supply of up to 317 kW and if you can get a charger with that supply, it would take 20 minutes to recharge from 10% to 80% for both the smaller and large batteries.

With AC charging (up to a maximum of 11kW), the time required from 5% to 100% is within 9.5 hours for the Standard Range battery and 11 hours for the Long Range. Incidentally, the X9 has a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capability which can provide 3.3 kW of power for external equipment or devices.

With advanced technologies as the brand’s strong point, the X9 boasts a world-first active rear-wheel steering system which enables a surprisingly tight 5.4-metre turning diameter which will be appreciated considering the size of the vehicle.

The X9 also has an intelligent dual-chamber air suspension which provides a very comfortable ride and also good handling. It has a 40% increase in spring stiffness adjustment range, a maximum adjustment range of 90 mm in suspension travel, and a 25% reduction in impact strength over bumps. The stiffness can be varied automatically to give the smoothest ride over any type of surface.

With a length of 5293 mm and width of 1988 mm (height of 1785 mm) on a wheelbase of 3180 mm, the X9 offers a very spacious cabin with 3 rows of seating for 7 persons. Xpeng says the interior theme is inspired by a starship cockpit so it is somewhat futuristic. Premium materials like wood veneer and aluminium air vents for a modern, minimalist aesthetic.

However, the highlights are really the special features that come with the MPV. These include the 23-speaker X-Opera sound system with a 2,180W amplifier, aviation-style seats, zero-gravity seats (Pro Plus only), headrest speaker for the driver, and massage functions for the seats.

All versions have the same displays – 10.25 inches for the instrument panel, 17.3 inches for the infotainment display and a 21.4-inch Smart Screen with remove control for the rear occupants.

As would be expected in modern cars, especially EVs, advanced safety systems are provided in the X9. The XPILOT active systems, managed by a computer with a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, use high-definition radar and ultrasonic sensors to constantly scan the surroundings for other vehicles, pedestrians and hazards.

There are many advanced driver assistance systems to help the driver be aware and avoid – or take autonomous action – if an accident could occur. Adaptive Cruise Control, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Lane Centering and Active Lane Change also help to reduce driver workload, making driving less stressful and more enjoyable.

Additionally, the X9 also has Enhanced Auto Parking Assist, Auto Exit Parking Assist, and Straight Summon. These can also be operated with the XPENG mobile app on a smartphone. For awareness of the surroundings, the driver can refer to a 360-degree monitor which provides a real-time view around the vehicle.

XPeng G6 EV launched by Bermaz XPeng, priced from RM165,000