“L” like “Luxury”: First test drive in the Xpeng G9L

For almost four years now, Xpeng has been developing the G9. It received its first facelift last year, and this year it got a larger sibling: the G9L. This model is already being sold in China and is set to arrive in Europe soon. Xpeng will unveil this massive SUV at the Paris Auto Show and share all the details then. We got to sit in it ahead of time, so we’ll limit ourselves to our initial impressions here.

Image: Xpeng

Based on their silhouettes, the G9 and the L version are similar, but the latter is a bit larger in every aspect: it is 23 centimeters longer (12 of which come from the increased wheelbase), and its height is 10 centimeters higher. As a result, the Xpeng G9L measures 5.12 meters in length, around 1.78 meters in height, and about 2 meters in width (excluding the exterior mirrors). The G9L comes equipped with a sliding step to facilitate entry; it extends electrically as soon as one of the doors is opened. Naturally, the doors also open electronically and can be controlled remotely.

Overall, the G9L also appears fresher visually thanks to a careful redesign of the lights and radiator grille. However, neither of these changes can hide the fact that it’s a rather bulky vehicle — not particularly graceful, though it isn’t meant to be. Thanks to its closed front end, it still looks less militaristic compared to other large SUVs.

Xpeng G9L with plenty of space and premium features

Contrary to common logic, the “L” in the model name does not stand for “long version” but rather for “luxury,” Xpeng emphasizes. Even the standard G9 features a highly premium interior with numerous comfort features. As a result, the difference between the two sibling models is not significant in the front seats, while the back seat offers excellent audio performance. The second row features two individual seats instead of one bench, complete with all the extras: there’s seat heating and ventilation, as well as a massage function.

A thermos compartment ensures refreshments or hot meals stay at the desired temperature, capable of keeping items warm, cold, or frozen.

Cinematic experience in the second row

Naturally, there is not only an additional display for operating the features but also a retractable TV, similar to the one found in the BMW i7. To ensure that such comfort is not disrupted by the outside world, there are various blinds that can be opened and closed electrically.

In addition to the 6-seater version we reviewed, a 7-seater will also be available in Europe. An exclusive 5-seater version is set to be released for the UK alone.

The focus is clearly on passenger transport, with the trunk capacity shrinking to 367 liters when all seats are used, and this already includes the spacious compartment under the floor. When the third row of seats is folded down, the cargo volume increases to 1,330 liters for a 6-seater model and 935 liters for a 7-seater model. An additional 65 liters are available in the front trunk. For those who need more space, they can expand storage by attaching a trailer, with the vehicle capable of pulling up to two tons. As befits a luxury car, the trailer hitch extends electrically.

Charging and Driving: More is Better

When it comes to charging speed, we’re used to high numbers at Xpeng. With a peak DC charging capacity of 540 kW, the G9L doesn’t hold back, achieving 10 to 80% charge in under 12 minutes. To ensure the 110 kWh (gross) battery can be charged in a reasonable time even at home, a 22 kW AC charger is included as standard equipment.

The rear-wheel-drive base model delivers 270 kW, reaching 100 km/h in seven seconds. The all-wheel-drive version, with its 430 kW capacity, needs just over three seconds less. As usual, the rear-wheel-drive version has an edge in range—its 591 km WLTP range is 38 kilometers greater than that of the all-wheel-drive version.

Image: Xpeng

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Luxury cruiser or family car?

Xpeng has not yet revealed prices, but it has confirmed that the six-seater will only be available in the Performance all-wheel-drive version. For the seven-seater, customers can choose between Long Range and Performance trims. Even the shorter G9 is not cheap at 59,600 euros, let alone its Performance version at 72,600 euros. Nevertheless, for larger families, the longer version might still be worth considering—provided there are good leasing options. Especially compared to premium cars from Germany, the G9 is fairly reasonably priced; perhaps Xpeng will maintain this pricing strategy for its luxury longer version as well.