Zeekr 9X: China's First Plug-In Hybrid Flagship SUV Challenges Global Luxury Rivals

The Zeekr 9X marks a historic milestone as the Chinese automaker's inaugural plug-in hybrid vehicle and new flagship SUV. Launched on September 29, 2025, this full-size luxury SUV directly targets ultra-premium competitors like the Range Rover and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, blending state-of-the-art technology, extraordinary performance, and lavish amenities.

Pricing and Market Positioning

The Zeekr 9X is offered in four variants with pricing spanning from 465,900 yuan to 599,900 yuan (approximately US$63,965 to US$82,376). A limited-time trade-in promotion provides 10,000 yuan in benefits, effectively reducing the entry price to 455,900 yuan (around US$62,625). The base Max 55kWh model starts at 465,900 yuan (US$65,440), while the Ultra 55kWh and Ultra 70kWh versions are priced at 485,900 yuan (US$68,250) and approximately 499,900 yuan (US$70,350) respectively.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The 9X introduces

All-New Volvo XC70 Launched in China: A Premium PHEV SUV Set for Global Export

The all-new Volvo XC70 made its debut in the Chinese market on September 26, 2025. This luxury plug-in hybrid electric SUV combines advanced hybrid architecture, a premium interior with cutting-edge technology, and competitive pricing, targeting the rapidly expanding PHEV segment in China. With promotional pricing starting at 269,900 yuan (approximately US$37,100), and regular variants typically priced between 299,900 yuan and 349,900 yuan (US$41,300–US$48,200) depending on trim, the XC70 is positioned to attract global buyers, especially those in the Middle East, Americas, and Africa, looking for reliable, high-performance vehicles from China.

Key Specifications and Technological Highlights

Hybrid Powertrain: The XC70 integrates a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with three electric motors (P1+P2+P4) and a 3DHT hybrid transmission, generating a combined output of up to 340 kW. The all-wheel drive extended-range

China Auto Market Report: July 2025 Shows Stabilized Growth Amid Seasonal Slowdown

Market Overview

The Chinese passenger vehicle market demonstrated relative stability with slowing growth in July 2025, according to industry data. Nationwide retail sales of narrow-body passenger vehicles reached approximately 1.826-1.837 million units, representing a 6.3%-6.9% year-over-year increase but an 11.9%-12.4% month-over-month decline.

July traditionally marks the off-season for auto sales in China, compounded by annual maintenance shutdowns and summer holidays at several manufacturers. Notably, the market saw reduced promotional activities and price wars, with only 17 models announcing price cuts - significantly fewer than previous periods.

Top-Performing Models & Trends

Audi S4 Chassis: The Engineering Behind Its Precision Performance

Core Chassis Architecture

The Audi S4 establishes its dynamic foundation through an exceptional combination of five-link front and rear independent suspension, extensive use of lightweight aluminum components, and the legendary quattro all-wheel drive system with mechanical center differential. This creates a rare balance of precision and performance in its class.

Platform and Layout

Built on Volkswagen Group's MLB evo longitudinal engine platform, the S4 features:

• Front-engine, all-wheel-drive configuration for optimal weight distribution
• Lower ride height compared to standard A4/A4L models
• More aggressive suspension tuning and AWD calibration

Suspension System Highlights

The five-link independent suspension provides:

• Superior wheel trajectory control during cornering and braking
• Optimized camber management for enhanced grip
• Precise steering feedback and reduced body roll

Lightweight Construction

Audi engineers implemented

China MIIT Batch 398 New SUV/Crossover Lineup: 11 Models Coming Q4 2025

Key Highlights

The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has revealed 11 significant SUV/crossover models in its 398th product announcement batch, scheduled for September-November 2025 launches. The lineup spans pure electric, EREV, PHEV, and conventional fuel technologies, featuring major updates from AITO, Tank, GAC Toyota, and emerging EV brands.

Model-by-Model Breakdown

1. Aion i60 (New Model)

- Segment: Compact SUV (positioned below/side-by-side with AION V)

- Design: Family-style tech-sport aesthetic with roof-mounted LiDAR

- Powertrain: Expected to offer both BEV (150-165kW motor) and EREV (1.5L range extender) options

- Dimensions: Approximately 4.68m length

2. Arcfox T5 Facelift

- Updates: Front fascia redesigned to match S5 styling, retained full-width taillight

- Performance: Single-motor BEV with upgraded 185kW (520km range) and 200kW (630/660km range) options using CATL batteries

BYD Yuan UP Launches New Entry-Level Model: 301KM Explorer Priced at $10,321

Key Highlight: BYD has expanded its Yuan UP lineup with the 301KM Explorer variant, now the most affordable model at 74,800 yuan ($10,321), effectively lowering the entry point for this popular electric SUV.

Core Specifications

• Powertrain: 70kW front-mounted motor (180N·m torque) with 32kWh LFP battery
• Range: 301km CLTC
• Dimensions: 4310mm (L) x 1830mm (W) x 1675mm (H), 2620mm wheelbase
• New Color Options: "Joyful Beige" and "Lavender Purple"

Technology & Features

• Standard 8.8-inch digital cluster and 12.8-inch touchscreen (some reports suggest 10.1-inch)
• DiLink smart system with BYD D100 chip supports four-zone voice interaction
• Future OTA updates will add phone-car interconnect, mirror mode, and navigation transfer

Comfort & Convenience

• Electronic gear selector, built-in ETC, NFC key, wireless charging
• Panoramic camera, automatic climate control, rear vents
• VTOL mobile power station (vehicle-to-load) capability

AITO Officially Unveils Redesigned M7 SUV: Key Upgrades and 2025 Launch

Global Debut for China's Premium Hybrid SUV

AITO has released official images of its upgraded M7 mid-large SUV, slated for September 2025 release. The model receives substantial exterior redesigns and tech enhancements, positioning it as a strong contender in the global new energy SUV market.

Exterior Design Highlights

• Smoother closed grille adopting AITO's new family design language (shared with M8/M9 series)
• Removed illuminated logo/light strips, replaced with hood badging + chrome trim
• Blackened headlight assemblies with projector lenses + full-width DRLs for broader visual stance
• Pronounced hood/body creases + semi-flush door handles for aerodynamic efficiency
• Multi-spoke alloy wheels + roof rails confirm production version
• Rear features (partially shown): full-width taillights, roof spoiler, and simplified chrome trim

Dimensions & Space

Maintaining its large SUV proportions (L5020×W1945×H1760mm, 2820mm wheelbase),

Audi Q6L e-tron Launches Pre-sale in China: Premium Electric SUV Priced at $48,690-$55,590

Key Highlights

• Pre-sale starts July 26 with two variants: Long Range and Launch Edition

• Positioned as mid-size luxury electric SUV, competing with Tesla Model Y, Xiaomi YU7, and Zhijie R7

• 2995mm wheelbase and 752km CLTC range (Long Range variant)

• Huawei Qiankun autonomous driving system on high-end model

1. Pricing and Key Specifications

The Audi Q6L e-tron officially opened for pre-sale in China on July 26, with two available configurations:

• Long Range Edition: $48,690 (¥353,000)
• Launch Edition: $55,590 (¥403,000)

Dimensions: 4884mm length × 1965mm width × 1656mm height, with a class-leading 2995mm wheelbase.

Performance: 279HP, 460N·m torque, 0-100km/h in 6.3 seconds.

Range: 752km (Long Range) / 709km (Launch Edition) under CLTC standards.

Tech: High-end model features Huawei's Qiankun autonomous driving system with 2 lidars, 3 cameras, 5 mmWave radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors supporting

Geely Auto Prepares Major New Model Launches with Dual Fuel-EV Strategy for 2025

Four Strategic New Models to Compete Globally

1. New Xingyue L

The refreshed Xingyue L SUV features redesigned chrome accents on the front grille and sharper headlights for a more premium look. With a 25mm longer body (now ~4800mm) while maintaining its 2845mm wheelbase, it continues targeting family buyers seeking spacious comfort. The proven 2.0T + 8AT powertrain delivers reliable performance, positioning it against mainstream joint-venture SUVs in the mid-to-high price segment.

2. Geely Galaxy Yao 6

This new compact sedan combines segment-leading dimensions (4806mm length/2756mm wheelbase) with hybrid efficiency. Its sporty design features a waterfall grille and slim headlights. The next-gen Thunder EM-i hybrid system pairs an 82kW 1.5L engine with electric motors, achieving an exceptional 2.67L/100km CLTC fuel economy in hybrid mode - outperforming rivals like VW Sagitar and Honda Civic.

3. New Boyue

Scheduled

Land Rover Defender OCTA: The Ultimate Flagship Debuts as Brand's Most Powerful Off-Roader

Key Highlights

The Land Rover Defender OCTA has made its China debut as the new pinnacle of the Defender lineup, combining extreme off-road capability with V8-powered luxury. Below are its groundbreaking features and market-specific offers:

Performance & Engineering

• Powertrain: 4.4L V8 twin-turbo with mild-hybrid tech delivers 635 HP and 750 Nm torque (spiking to 800 Nm in overboost). Accelerates 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds.
• Suspension: 6D Dynamic Chassis with dual-valve air suspension for extreme terrain comfort.
• Exclusive Tech: World-first Off-Road ABS and OCTA Mode (including rally-inspired settings).

Unmatched Off-Road Specs

• 323mm ground clearance (+33mm vs standard Defender)
• Approach/departure angles: 40.2°/42.8°
• 1-meter wading depth
• Wider track (+68mm) with 838mm all-terrain tires

Design & Luxury

• Black OCTA octagonal badges with dark gold accents
• Redesigned bumpers and quad active exhaust