On the planet of automotive journalism, sure automobiles go away a long-lasting impression. The Zeekr 009 is a type of uncommon examples.
This electrical Chinese language MPV, designed to seat seven, weighs almost three tonnes, boasts acceleration surpassing that of a Ford Mustang V8, options lavish personal jet-like interiors, resembles a spaceship, and begins at a outstanding $135,900.
On the floor, it appears nonsensical. Right here now we have a luxurious automobile from an unfamiliar model that has just lately entered the Australian market, with extravagant specs and seemingly no likelihood of excessive gross sales quantity.
Nonetheless, the attract of the Zeekr 009 is plain. It is entertaining and, in lots of respects, genuinely spectacular. Each time I stepped out of its opulent cabin, I couldn’t assist however inform myself that it might make each household journey really feel like an opulent getaway.
Zeekr is a subsidiary of the Geely conglomerate, which incorporates manufacturers like Volvo, Polestar, Sensible, and Lotus. Established in 2021, the title combines “Z” from Technology Z with “geek.” If the hefty price ticket does not deter you, the quirky title may.
As soon as you agree into its First Class therapeutic massage seats, the title hardly issues. You may end up residing out luxurious fantasies, full with a handy champagne fridge.
So, who’s the target market for this automobile? Seemingly high-end lodges for airport shuttles or private chauffeurs. Business consumers face a restricted guarantee of three years or 120,000 km, whereas personal purchasers are supplied a extra enticing five-year limitless km guarantee.
Potential consumers already contemplating a seven-seat BMW X5 (beginning round $137,600) may discover the Zeekr interesting, buying and selling off the German model cachet and towing capability for the novelty of this ultra-luxury MPV expertise.
Nonetheless, the automobile does include drawbacks, together with poor resale worth and restricted seller presence, with solely 5 places throughout main Australian cities. Service intervals are cheap, with upkeep each two years or 40,000 km.
Pricing and Options of the 2025 Zeekr 009
The Zeekr 009 measures 5.2 meters in size and includes a wheelbase of three.2 meters. The bottom mannequin begins at $135,900 and might seat seven in a 2+2+3 configuration. A premium six-seater model is out there for an extra $4,000, bringing the worth near $150,000 when together with charges.
This automobile is supplied with twin electrical motors producing 450 kW and 693 Nm of torque—far exceeding the output of a Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
Key options embody a strong 116 kWh battery providing a variety of 582 km (WLTP) and a most DC charging velocity of 205 kW. Zeekr claims a 30-minute cost from 10% to 80%, with a full cost by way of AC taking roughly 13.5 hours.
With putting LED daytime working lights, 20-inch alloys, air suspension, and energy sliding doorways, the outside is simply as spectacular as the inside.
Inside, the cabin is designed for consolation, that includes 12-way energy seats coated in premium Nappa leather-based, a 15-inch infotainment display screen, and a 36-inch augmented actuality head-up show. Different luxuries embody a panoramic glass roof, a 17-inch leisure display screen for rear passengers, and a number of USB-C ports.
The rear presents two "first-class aviation-type" seats with intensive adjustability and options corresponding to a foldable tray desk with cup holders. Further facilities embody a fridge, ambient lighting, and superior local weather management.
Driving Impressions and Efficiency
Preliminary perceptions of the 009 may skew detrimental, given its $140k price ticket and unconventional look. Nonetheless, the plush inside and superior know-how are per present Chinese language automotive tendencies.
Surprisingly, the driving expertise is kind of totally different from what one may count on from a automobile of its measurement. It performs easily and absorbs street imperfections nicely, due to its refined air suspension, which offers commendable stability and luxury.
In customary driving mode, the facility supply is easy and manageable, excellent for on a regular basis use. Regenerative braking is mild, permitting for one-pedal driving—a characteristic many respect.
Nonetheless, dealing with may enhance, with considerably ambiguous steering suggestions and brakes which are uninspiring till they grow to be overly aggressive.
Whereas the fast acceleration is thrilling—0 to 100 km/h in simply 4.5 seconds—it’d really feel extreme for a automobile of this sort. This efficiency may result in security considerations if not managed properly.
On the within, the distinctive key design requires cautious placement, as it could possibly simply dislodge throughout turns. The white inside, whereas putting, is susceptible to attracting marks, necessitating diligence to keep up its look.
Regardless of some minor shortcomings—just like the plasticky really feel of the steering wheel and the dearth of wi-fi charging—the infotainment system presents a bunch of options, together with varied leisure choices and superior management settings.
Verdict on the 2025 Zeekr 009
The excessive price ticket means the Zeekr 009’s spectacular options and splendid experience may not be sufficient to influence shoppers to put money into a brand new, little-known model with restricted seller assist and potential depreciation points.
Nonetheless, for these prepared to take pleasure in its comforts, notably within the second row, the 009 presents a lavish journey expertise. Its limitations by way of payload and baggage capability may deter some consumers, however a concentrate on a smaller four-seat model may make this intriguing mannequin extra interesting.
Specs Abstract
- Value: From $135,900
- Sort: Electrical Automobile, 7 seats, 5 doorways, MPV, AWD
- Vary: 582 km
- Battery: 116 kWh
- Guarantee: Eight years or 160,000 km
- Power Consumption: 19.5 kWh/100 km
- Motors: Twin (450 kW / 693 Nm mixed)
- AC Charging Time: Roughly 13.5 hours for full cost
- DC Charging: 10% to 80% in about half-hour
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds