Geely M9 2026 Review
The Chinese luxury SUV that has everything figured out… except what Australians will payThe 2026 Geely Galaxy M9 feels less like a mainstream Geely and more like something from premium family members Zeekr or Volvo. The large three-row SUV combines a lavish six-seat cabin, huge PHEV cruising range and astonishing performance with the makings of impressive long-distance comfort and a claimed range of 1500km. If Geely can bring it to Australia at the right price, it will raise a lot of eyebrows in the large SUV segment. If it lands near premium European rivals, the value equation becomes far more difficult.
How much does the Geely M9 cost?
Pricing remains the biggest unknown for the 2026 Geely M9. In China, it starts around RMB173,000 – roughly $36,000 right now.
But Australian pricing would almost certainly be significantly higher once shipping, taxes, right-hand-drive engineering and several other elements are factored in. Not to mention if the model-grades are high-spec, burger-with-the-lot variants.
While the M9 hasn’t been officially confirmed for Australia yet, carsales understands it’s a case of ‘when’ rather than ‘if’ it comes here, with a 2027 local launch expected.
Standard equipment is impressive on the vehicle we tested, with matrix LED headlights, 21-inch wheels, air suspension, a 30-inch 6K touchscreen, a 27-speaker audio system, built-in fridge, heated and ventilated and massage seats across multiple rows and enough ambient lighting to make a dimly lit French restaurant blush.
Technology includes a Flyme Auto infotainment system powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8295P processor (read: very responsive), while safety equipment includes LiDAR-based driver assistance, multiple cameras and radar sensors.
Power comes from Geely's ‘NordThor AI Hybrid 2.0 EM-P' system, which pairs a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a tri-motor e-AWD setup producing a combined 640kW.
This colossal power play drives through a dedicated three-speed hybrid transmission.
Like the rest of the Geely range, expect a seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty when it arrives Down Under.
What's good about the Geely Galaxy M9?
The cabin is the headline act. Material quality, presentation and technology feel much closer to a Zeekr 009 or Volvo EX90 than a traditional budget-brand SUV.
All six seats are heated and ventilated, and the first two rows have massage functions, plus there’s a hidden rear table and an integrated fridge.
Ride quality is exceptional thanks to the air suspension, while refinement levels are also very good. It nails the premium vibe very nicely; whisper quiet at higher speeds and well-equipped for long-distance touring.
Performance is absurd for a family SUV. Despite weighing more than 2.5 tonnes, it reaches 100km/h in around 4.5 seconds and delivers effortless overtaking performance. The acceleration from standstill to 100km/h is legitimately shocking.
Two CATL-supplied LFP battery options are available and these will be crucial for Geely to get right, as the bigger 41.5kWh unit will add a hefty premium.
That said, it also gives the M9 a 200km (ish) electric range and a total fuel range of 1500km. At least that’s the claim. The 18.4kWh battery has a circa-80km EV range.
Other positives to report – interior space. It’s a huge bus.
Measuring more than 5.2 metres long, it’s considerably bigger than a LandCruiser 300 Series and the third row is adult-friendly.
What's not so good about the Geely Galaxy M9?
The biggest issue for 2026 Geely M9 is pricing uncertainty. Geely's Australian reputation is built on value, and a six-figure price tag could make positioning difficult.
The Geely EX5 is selling like hotcakes not just because it’s a reasonably competent vehicle, but also because it undercuts nearly all its rivals.
Beyond the hypotheticals of pricing, the M9 prioritises comfort over driver engagement. This will be fine for most buyers but during our drive in a huge carpark in Hangzhou, China, body roll is noticeable – nay, chronic – when navigating a slalom.
Simply put, it lacks the sharpness of premium European rivals, but this can be said of almost all Chinese challenger brands right now.
Should I buy a Geely M9?
If Geely can deliver the M9 to Australia at a price that undercuts established luxury rivals, it has the potential to disrupt the large SUV segment.
Geely appears to be building positive brand perception in Australia, and the M9 SUV’s impressive luxury, technology, performance and practicality has the potential to deliver a cost-effective package that could strike a chord with Aussie buyers.
The challenge will be convincing Australian buyers that this is a genuine luxury product rather than simply an expensive Geely.
2027 Geely M9 at a glance:
Price: TBC (Australia)
Available: 2027 (TBC)
Powertrain: 1.5-litre turbo petrol-electric PHEV
Combined output: 640kW/1165Nm
Transmission: 3-speed hybrid automatic
Battery: 41.5kWh LFP
Range: Up to 230km EV (CLTC)
Safety rating: Not tested (ANCAP)
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- Luxury cabin and high quality materials create upmarket vibe
- Huge EV range and long-distance touring capability
- Ultra-comfortable, super-smooth ride quality
- Australian pricing remains the biggest unanswered question
- Comfort-focus makes for sloppy dynamics and handling
- Large SUV sales revolve around reputation, not always value
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