ZEEKR 009 2024
Geely's Zeekr 009, as one of the earlier high-end MPVs from independent brands, has achieved commendable sales and market recognition since its launch. Last year, a new model was introduced with an updated dual-chamber air suspension, offering more variants. I had the opportunity to test drive this vehicle and assess its performance.
The test vehicle was the lower-end seven-seat corridor version, priced at 439,000 yuan, with front-wheel drive and 422 horsepower, which is quite remarkable. My friends and I joked that it might be the most powerful front-wheel drive car in human production (if anyone knows of a more powerful one, feel free to tell me). In terms of actual performance, the absolute power naturally feels abundant, easily meeting demands within legal speed limits. After all, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain might be overkill for an MPV. The smoothness is satisfactory, with the power response being somewhat similar to the Zeekr MIX, generally adopting a softer style. In comfort mode, responses to mild power requests are quite smooth, and even large power requests result in a very gradual linear increase after a slight delay. In sport mode, response accelerates but the power delivery remains gentle. Even starting with pedal-to-the-metal power delivery feels smooth, with minimal slippage, indicating some restrictions in place. Considering its positioning, the overall performance is quite commendable, given its intent as a comfort-oriented product.
The chassis performance deserves separate attention. In comfort mode, road information filtering is decent. While not as extreme as some competitors, the in-cabin experience doesn't compromise comfort. There are minor vertical oscillations, typical of a large MPV, but these movements are not significant enough to affect stability. Traversing speed bumps and potholes feels substantial and not overly soft, making it fairly comfortable overall. In sport mode, it feels more "solid", with less vertical oscillation on the road and more road feel, but it's still predominantly comfortable. I also sat in the back; although road information filtering isn’t as good as in the front, it's typical for MPVs. Unlike some other models, this vehicle doesn’t have a swaying sensation, making the vibration isolation quite impressive.
The sporty performance is commendable. Discussing extreme handling in this type of vehicle is less meaningful, but in comfort mode, body roll control is quite effective; even slightly faster lane changes or turns don’t feel alarming. In sport mode, roll control is excellent, resembling some well-built SUVs. Overall, even at higher speeds, it performs well for an MPV.
The steering feedback is favorable, light at low speeds, and speed-sensitive adjustment is on point. Even for such a large MPV, the response and handling are commendable, with a relatively small turning radius, making it agile for everyday driving.
Brake pedal feel is commendable, with seamless integration between electric and mechanical braking, easy to achieve smooth braking, and good control over nosedive.
NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) is commendable, with excellent wind noise and road noise isolation. There's minimal noise impact inside; rear cabin noise is not significantly different from the front, and there's no resonance, making it quite impressive for an MPV.
Design-wise, the 009 retains Zeekr's typical front style, with a robust and upright shape, exuding considerable presence, aligning with most people's perception of a luxury MPV. Its attractiveness, however, is subjective.
The interior is generally minimalist, but details are attended to, particularly the functional areas on the second-row doors, which are quite appealing, preventing a monotonous feel, faring better than some rivals. The craftsmanship and materials are of a luxury standard. The car's infotainment system is satisfactory, with smooth operation and intuitive menu logic, easy to adapt and use. Storage space is abundant, with designated spots for typical items.
Front-row ergonomics are commendable, featuring an unexpectedly low seating position for an MPV, which I personally appreciate. The seats are comfortable, with easily adjustable steering wheel positions. Unlike the MIX, this vehicle offers a broader field of view. The second row is excellent, whether in the corridor version or not, providing outstanding seat comfort. When seating four, there's ample legroom for leg rests, with various adjustment options and functions. I only experienced the third row in the six-seat version, finding it quite comfortable and spacious. The seat cushions are slightly short but acceptable, with a good recline angle. The trunk space is commendable, with ample room even when all three rows are up, offering robust load capabilities for group travel.
Overall, the Zeekr 009 performs notably well, combining substantial and advanced product strengths with a traditional design that is market-appealing. Given the relatively small segment of the pure electric MPV market, achieving such sales figures is already commendable. Compared to its pure electric competitors, while it may not be the extreme in comfort, its driving feel and static luxury provide clear advantages, making the choice dependent on personal needs.
