Zeekr 9X: A Rolls Royce Cullinan Replica at the Cost of a BMW X5 | Carscoops

      The blocky luxury SUV is expected to start at $70k and reach 62 mph in approximately 3.5 seconds.

      11 hours ago

      by Chris Chilton

      Zeekr, a brand owned by Geely, has released the initial official images of its 9X luxury SUV.

      This model, reminiscent of the Rolls Royce Cullinan, is set to make its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show this month.

      While Zeekr has not disclosed specifics regarding the powertrain, the 9X is rumored to be a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

      Luxury car manufacturers in the West are increasingly realizing that their Chinese market advantage may be diminishing. More consumers are opting for domestic brands like Zeekr, as seen with the first appearance of the 9X luxury SUV in these photos prior to its introduction at this week’s Shanghai Auto Show.

      It is easy to deduce the inspirations behind the design of this striking utility vehicle by the designers at Zeekr, who were likely influenced by SUVs such as the Range Rover, Rivian’s R1S, and Rolls Royce Cullinan. Notably, Zeekr’s signature waterwall grille is even larger than the Pantheon grille found on the Rolls.

      In addition, the distinctive silver C-pillar design emulates a feature from the Cullinan, while the arrangement of the rear LED lights has similarities to the Range Rover. However, when simplifying the design elements, the 9X appears somewhat outdated and lacking creativity. It does not boast flush door handles or rear-hinged doors, and the surface texture falls short of the high-quality, refined feel that European luxury brands typically offer.

      Nevertheless, the 9X does possess a commanding presence, which is crucial. We will need to wait for the unveiling at the show tomorrow to see if it has also adopted design cues from Rolls and Range Rover for its interior. It may also incorporate ideas from its sibling, the 009 minivan, which offers top models featuring two fully reclining rear seats and a 43-inch cinema screen.

      The Shanghai reveal will finally indicate what powertrain is concealed under the large, flat hood. While Zeekr is recognized for its electric vehicles, the presence of exhaust tailpipe trims at the back suggests that the 9X will be a hybrid rather than a fully electric vehicle.

      However, its performance is expected to align with electric vehicles, with the ability to accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in the “3-second range,” as reported by Zeekr statements cited by Car News China. They also suggest that prices could range from ¥500k ($68,000) to ¥1m ($136,000). These figures position the 9X's pricing closer to that of BMW’s X5 rather than the XM, Range Rover, or Cullinan.

      Images: Zeekr