The entry of Chinese carmakers has already altered the competitive landscape of the automotive market in Malaysia. However, there are segments which remain largely dominated by certain models, and one of which is the premium MPV.
The prominence of the Toyota Alphard (and Vellfire) is unquestioned, this flagship MPV is a staple for affluent families, businesses, even government ministers, whether parallel imported or acquired brand new from Toyota. While the segment itself isn’t lacking in options, there is now a new challenger with the ability to redefine the existing standards, enter the GWM WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV.
Cutting-edge powertrain with no compromises
At the core of the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV lies an advanced powertrain that delivers effortless performance befitting a luxury MPV. Developed entirely in-house by GWM, the Hi4 Intelligent Hybrid system features a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, dual electric motors (one on each axle), all-wheel drive and a 44.2 kWh ternary lithium battery.
The Hi4 system is capable of a combined output of 442 PS and 642 Nm which allows the WEY G9 to accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in just 5.7 seconds, eclipsing all other ICE or hybrid-powered MPVs in its class. Depending on the battery state of charge, the WEY G9 is able to return a fuel economy of between 1.2L to 6.2L per 100 km, making extended journeys of over 1,000 km per tankful (58 litres) achievable in real-world conditions.
READ MORE: GWM Hi4 tech explained – Off-road-ready hybrid 4WD systems that’ll even save you fuel!
While there are five different drive modes and three energy settings to fine-tune the driving experience, the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV is most efficient when left in the default ‘Normal’ mode where its intelligent energy management system automatically adapts to changing conditions by utilising the different energy sources (electric, hybrid or internal combustion) and drive configurations to attain top-class fuel efficiency.
Unlike traditional hybrid systems that power MPVs such as the Toyota Vellfire HEV, there are no compromises in how the WEY G9 performs. Immediate acceleration and optimal traction are always available from its dual electric motors with intelligent Torque Vectoring Control, turning mundane commutes into pleasurable and refined journeys for both the driver and passengers.
With its large battery pack and an all-electric range of up to 170 km (NEDC), the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV can also function as a daily people carrier zero tailpipe emissions, its plug-in charging capability is particularly useful to counter the volatility of fossil fuel prices.
An elevated level of luxury for the price
From its bold front grille, inspired by a cascading waterfall, to the clean, sculptured body lines, the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV cuts a distinctive presence on the road. While the length and width of the WEY G9 shades the Toyota Alphard, its body profile is proportionate and perfectly sized to accommodate a spacious cabin which seats seven adults comfortably.
Even with seven on board, there is adequate legroom for adults seated in the third row, with a usable cargo space for several pieces of carry-on luggage, something that can’t be said in the case of the Alphard. Of course, the most luxurious experience lies in the second row where two individual captain’s chairs wrapped in plush Nappa leather reside, both are fully ventilated (backrest included) and come with 10-point massaging and powered leg rests.
Here, the occupants can choose to be cradled and pampered in an ultra-soothing Zero Gravity mode with just the touch of a button, much like that of a business class seat on a jetliner. Said passengers also have access to an airplane-style tray table, high-speed charging ports, and even a bi-level refrigerator with an operating temperature of between zero and 50 Celsius.
The interior of the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV bears a sense of elevated refinement typically associated with luxury vehicles. The use of double-glazed acoustic glass on the front windscreen and second row windows, along with active noise cancellation and premium levels of insulation has resulted in a cabin with noise level measured at only 63.4 dB at 120 km/h. The calm ambience of the WEY G9 interior also lets the 2,440W (peak), 21-speaker audio system shine.
A new benchmark for value and ownership
At RM269,800, the WEY G9 redefines ‘value for money’ in the premium MPV segment, proving that luxury is attainable at a much more affordable price point, even when compared to reconditioned pre-owned units of the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, which are typically sold without factory warranty.
Suffice to say, when benchmarked against the new Alphard/Vellfire variants retailed officially by Toyota in Malaysia, the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV leads in virtually every matrix, offering superior levels of equipment, performance and safety specification for the money.
This can be attributed to the fact that the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV is the first locally assembled Chinese New Energy luxury PHEV MPV, being part of GWM’s regional strategy which positions Malaysia as an ASEAN production base. As the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV has already achieved 40.05% localisation, it can be exported to other ASEAN countries without being subjected to import duties, with Thailand being the first market to have received the luxury MPV.
Being locally assembled also augurs well for the ownership proposition of the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV in Malaysia, particularly in the areas of parts readiness and after-sales expertise. It’s worth pointing out that the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV comes standard with a 6-year unlimited vehicle warranty and 8-year (or 180,000km) hybrid system warranty which covers battery pack, electric motors and control unit.
On top of that, ownership benefits include 5 years of connected services data, 5 years of maintenance (parts and labour included) and a home wallbox charger, all of which are complimentary. Additionally, the first 1,000 owners of the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV get a free 15.6-inch rear entertainment overhead display.
READ MORE: 2026 GWM Wey G9 launched in Malaysia – CKD, Hi4 PHEV, RM269k
[This post is brought to you by GWM Malaysia]
