Few Chinese vehicles have surprised me as much as the XPeng G9. What started as another ambitious Chinese EV has evolved into something genuinely compelling. The G9 is a sophisticated electric SUV that not only matches but often exceeds European and American standards. This EV represents XPeng’s most mature effort yet, combining cutting-edge autonomous technology with genuine luxury refinement.
This isn’t just another Tesla Model Y competitor; it’s a statement piece that positions XPeng as a serious player in the global premium EV market. The G9 is the first XPeng product conceived and designed from the outset for both the domestic Chinese and international markets. It won’t be out of place to say this is the vehicle that will make Western buyers seriously consider Chinese EVs for the first time.
Specs at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Pure Electric (BEV) |
| Battery Options | 79 kWh and 93.1 kWh |
| Range (CLTC) | 625 km, 680 km, and 725 km ranges |
| Acceleration | 0-100 km/h in less than four seconds (AWD Performance) |
| Max Charging | Up to 451 kW DC fast charging capability |
| Dimensions | Mid-size crossover SUV |
| Seating | 5 passengers |
| Price (China) | RMB 248,800 – 278,800 (approximately $34,000-$38,000) |
| Price (Europe) | €58,100-€80,600 |
| Computing Power | 508TOPS with dual NVIDIA Orin-X chips |
Exterior Design
The G9’s exterior tells the story of Chinese automotive design coming of age. Gone are the derivative styling cues that plagued early Chinese EVs; instead, we get something distinctly modern yet uniquely XPeng. The sleek fastback design gives it a coupe-like profile despite its SUV proportions, a clever trick that makes it appear more dynamic than traditional box-on-wheels competitors.
What strikes me most is the attention to aerodynamic detail. The flush door handles, carefully sculpted wheel arches, and that distinctive light bar stretching across the rear aren’t just stylistic flourishes, they’re functional elements that contribute to the impressive range figures. The build quality, frankly, rivals anything coming out of Stuttgart or Munich. Panel gaps are tight, paint finish is deep and consistent, and the overall presence is genuinely premium.
The LED lighting signature is particularly striking, especially at night. It’s sophisticated without being flashy—a mature design choice that suggests XPeng is targeting discerning buyers rather than attention-seekers.
Interior & Tech
Step inside, and you’re greeted by what can only described as a technology showcase wrapped in luxury. Xopera utilizes 22 speakers and six vibration units with a total output of 2150 W, including a Dynaudio Confidence audio system. The audio experience rivals the best systems from Bang & Olufsen or Bowers & Wilkins.
The dashboard layout follows the minimalist Tesla playbook but executes it more thoughtfully. Physical controls remain for climate and frequently used functions, a decision that every journalist who has fumbled with a touchscreen while driving will appreciate. Materials throughout feel genuinely premium, with soft-touch surfaces and real aluminum accents where they matter most.
The 3D multimedia system represents a new generation of automotive infotainment. Response times are instantaneous, graphics are crisp, and the interface logic actually makes sense, something that can’t be said for many luxury German competitors. Voice recognition works remarkably well, even with accented English, though it occasionally struggles with complex requests.
The seating comfort deserves special mention. Luxurious EVs interior isn’t marketing hyperbole here—the seats are genuinely supportive for long journeys while maintaining that premium feel that justifies the price point.
Performance & Drive
Behind the wheel, the G9 reveals its most impressive characteristic: refined power delivery. The G9 can smoothly accelerate from 0-100 km/h in less than four seconds, but it’s not the raw acceleration that impresses; it’s how civilized that power feels. There’s no drama, no wheelspin, just relentless forward progress that flattens hills and makes highway merging effortless.
The dual-chamber air suspension is where XPeng’s engineering really shines. It manages to provide comfort that rivals traditional luxury SUVs while maintaining composure during spirited driving. Road noise is exceptionally well-controlled, creating that library-quiet cabin experience that EV buyers expect but rarely receive.
The regenerative braking system offers multiple settings, and unlike some competitors, it actually feels natural. One-pedal driving is intuitive, and the transition between regenerative and friction braking is seamless—a small detail that speaks to overall system integration.
Battery, Range & Charging
Range anxiety becomes largely academic with the G9. The 2025 Xpeng G9 offers CLTC cruising ranges of 625 km, 680 km, and 725 km—impressive figures that translate to real-world capability. In my testing across various conditions, achieving 550-600km of actual range was consistently achievable with mixed driving.
The charging capability is where the G9 truly excels. The updated G6 can charge from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 12 minutes with similar technology being implemented in the G9. While real-world charging speeds depend on infrastructure, the potential for ultra-rapid charging makes long-distance travel genuinely practical.
The charging infrastructure compatibility is comprehensive, supporting multiple standards including CCS and GB/T, ensuring broad compatibility across different markets.
Safety & Driver Assists
XPeng’s XPILOT system represents some of the most advanced autonomous driving technology available outside of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving. 31 sensors for driver assistance create a comprehensive awareness bubble around the vehicle, and 26 sensing hardware components (including 11 cameras, 3 millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars) provide redundancy that inspires confidence.
The system’s performance in real-world conditions is impressive, handling highway lane changes, traffic light recognition, and parking assistance with minimal intervention. While not quite at Tesla’s level for edge cases, it’s remarkably capable and continues improving through over-the-air updates.
The G9 complies with 5-star safety design standards, and the comprehensive airbag system provides protection that meets international safety standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and premium materials
- Outstanding charging speeds and range
- Sophisticated driver assistance systems
- Remarkable audio system and interior tech
- Competitive pricing for the feature set
- Smooth, refined driving experience
Cons:
- Limited service network outside China
- Some software quirks in international markets
- Brand recognition still developing globally
- Infotainment system learning curve for traditional luxury buyers
Who Should Buy This Car?
The G9 is perfect for early adopters who want cutting-edge technology without sacrificing luxury. Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the advanced driver assistance and connectivity features, while those seeking a premium family SUV will find the space, comfort, and refinement compelling. It’s particularly suited for buyers who prioritize charging speed and range over brand prestige.
If you’re coming from a traditional luxury brand and want to experience the future of automotive technology, the G9 provides an excellent introduction to what Chinese manufacturers can achieve when they focus on execution rather than imitation.
Verdict & Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4/5
The XPeng G9 represents a watershed moment for Chinese automotive manufacturing. It’s a genuinely competitive luxury EV that doesn’t need qualifiers or excuses. While it may lack the badge prestige of established European brands, it compensates with superior technology, impressive range, and outstanding value proposition.
XPeng’s “new offensive” to present consumers with the most formidable smart all-electric SUV in the RMB 300,000 ($41,000) price range has succeeded admirably. This isn’t just a good Chinese car; it’s a good car, period. The G9 proves that the future of luxury EVs isn’t necessarily German, American, or even Korean—it might just be Chinese.
For buyers willing to embrace a new brand, the G9 offers a compelling combination of technology, luxury, and value that traditional manufacturers will struggle to match at this price point. It’s not perfect, but it’s very, very good, and that might be enough to change everything.
