Get ready for a thrilling ride with the Geely Galaxy M9, a game-changer in the Chinese SUV market! This 6-seater marvel boasts an impressive 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4 seconds, and its cutting-edge AR-HUD cabin is a sight to behold.
On September 17th, the Galaxy M9 made its official debut, offering a range of six trims tailored for large families. With a starting price of 183,800 yuan (approximately $25,800 USD) and topping out at 248,800 yuan (around $35,000 USD), it goes head-to-head with competitors like the Huawei Aito M9 and the Li Auto L series.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Galaxy M9 isn't just about performance and price. It's a fusion of interior space, technology, and driving dynamics, aiming to redefine the home-oriented SUV market.
Our test drive focused on the top-of-the-line 210km 4WD Pilot Edition. Let's dive into the details!
Exterior Design:
The Galaxy M9 measures an impressive 5,205 mm in length, 1,999 mm in width, and 1,800 mm in height. Its 3,030 mm wheelbase and sleek 0.285 drag coefficient contribute to its aerodynamic profile. The vehicle sports Geely's signature "Star River Ripple" design, featuring a unique front grille that can close for improved winter thermal efficiency. The complex multi-layer headlights and full-width light strip add to its modern and sophisticated look.
The side profile is characterized by clean, straight lines with subtle chrome accents, while the hidden door handles create a sleek visual line. With six exterior paint options, including silver, blue, green, black, grey, and white, consumers can choose their preferred look. The top trims showcase 20-inch Goodyear tyres, 265 mm wide, while the entry-level models feature narrower tyres designed for everyday driving.
Interior Comfort and Technology:
Step inside, and you'll find a spacious 2+2+2 six-seat layout. The second row boasts independent seats with leg rests, lumbar support, heating, ventilation, and a luxurious 10-point massage function. The third row offers electric opening and reclining, providing ample head and legroom. The cabin spans an impressive 5.2 m² and is adorned with high-end materials, including soft-touch panels and anodized finishes, giving it a premium feel.
Technology takes center stage with a 30-inch dual multimedia touchscreen, a 12.66-inch full LCD instrument panel, a 32-inch AR-HUD, and a 17.3-inch ceiling entertainment screen. Powered by the Snapdragon 8295P chip, the Flyme Auto 2 system features the Eva AI agent, capable of route planning, vehicle control, and passenger interaction.
The audio system is a standout feature, with a 23-channel, 50-speaker Planar setup delivering up to 2,600 watts of immersive sound. Connectivity extends to WeChat integration and vehicle ecosystem interaction, and a four-zone voice assistant can execute multiple commands simultaneously. Even a 9.1 L refrigerator is embedded in the center console of high-end trims, offering temperatures ranging from -6°C to 50°C.
Practicality and Spaciousness:
The interior layout strikes a perfect balance between practicality and spaciousness. The second-row seats recline fully, providing a nearly flat position for extended relaxation. The rear seats can be adjusted electrically, offering a "bed mode" when combined with the third-row recline. Storage and cupholder placement are well-designed, accommodating longer journeys and practical family use.
Driving Experience:
The M9's initial acceleration is smooth and linear, with power delivery tuned to avoid sudden surges at low speeds. The electric motors respond promptly, but the calibration prioritizes a smooth progression over aggressive launches. During mid-range acceleration, the vehicle maintains a steady pull, and the drivetrain delivers a seamless driving experience without abrupt gear changes, thanks to its range-extended EV system.
The chassis tuning separates vertical and lateral motions, providing a composed and controlled ride. On uneven urban roads, the suspension filters out small bumps, while larger dips and raised surfaces are smoothly navigated by the air suspension. We found that the suspension maintains adequate support over speed bumps, preventing excessive rebound.
Steering is light at low speeds, making maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. As speed increases, resistance builds progressively, providing precise feedback to the driver. The turning response remains predictable, and body roll is well-controlled for a large three-row SUV.
The M9 excels in quick lane changes, with gradual weight transfer and minimal pitching. Under faster cornering, the body leans but remains stable, thanks to well-calibrated lateral damping. This ensures a composed driving experience when transitioning between directions.
Noise insulation is another standout feature. The cabin remains quiet at city speeds, with minimal tyre and wind noise. Even on expressways, wind noise is kept to a minimum, and the electric motors operate nearly silently, except under heavy acceleration, where a faint hum is audible.
Braking consistency is impressive, with gentle initial pedal travel and predictable force buildup. The transition between regenerative and mechanical braking is smooth, without the abrupt changes seen in some range-extended systems. Repeated braking tests showed no pedal fade within normal driving conditions.
For our four-wheel-drive test car, we noticed a slight reduction in third-row floor depth due to the rear motor's placement. However, its impact is felt more in traction distribution, providing added push during aggressive acceleration, especially on curved on-ramps.
Verdict:
The Geely Galaxy M9 is a comprehensive package for large SUV buyers seeking a blend of space, technology, and performance. Its exterior design emphasizes functionality and presence, while the interior offers premium materials, extensive infotainment, and configurable seating for up to six passengers.
Driving performance is competitive, with multiple hybrid and electric powertrain options delivering rapid acceleration, extended electric range, and low fuel consumption. Advanced chassis engineering and adjustable suspension provide a smooth yet precise driving experience.
Compared to segment competitors, the Galaxy M9 stands out for its combination of value, technology, and usable space. High-end trims offer features rivaling luxury counterparts, including AR-HUD, multi-zone voice control, advanced driver assistance systems, and high-output audio systems.
With competitive pricing, the Galaxy M9 is an attractive option, offering practical family utility and aspirational technology. It proves that large Chinese SUVs can deliver exceptional performance, intelligent features, and comprehensive space management, all while maintaining competitive pricing.
And this is the part most people miss... The Galaxy M9 is not just a car; it's a statement of Chinese automotive innovation and a glimpse into the future of SUV design and technology.
What do you think? Is the Galaxy M9 a game-changer for the SUV market? Share your thoughts in the comments!
