Debuting in China: GAC Trumpchi E9 Champion Edition PHEV MPV Takes the Stage

Following in the footsteps of BYD and Geely, GAC has unveiled its very own Champion Edition car, and it’s none other than the E9 PHEV MPV from their renowned Trumpchi brand. This iteration sports the distinctive styling of the special edition E9, known as the Grandmaster Edition, yet stands out with a more affordable price tag. The E9 Champion Edition starts at just 349,800 yuan (approximately 48,790 USD), positioning itself as a cost-effective option, 5,570 USD cheaper than the exclusive special edition E9.

(Image: GAC Trumpchi E9)

Notably, GAC holds a prominent position among China’s major automakers, producing vehicles for global giants such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, and Honda within China’s borders. In addition to this, GAC boasts its own lineup of brands, including Trumpchi, Aion, and Hycan. While Trumpchi actively markets its vehicles overseas, they are rebranded as GAC in international markets.

The GAC E9 Champion Edition emerges as a plug-in hybrid minivan with an eye-catching exterior design. Featuring an imposing chrome-plated grille with vertical bars and surrounded by expansive LED lights, the E9 Champion Edition presents an impressive presence. This MPV is generously proportioned, with dimensions measuring 5212/1893/1823 mm and a wheelbase of 3070 mm. By way of comparison, the E9 outpaces the Toyota Alphard by 267 mm in length, 43 mm in width, and stands 67 mm lower, highlighting its capacious interior.

Delving into the interior, the E9 Champion Edition boasts a 7-seat arrangement (2+2+3). Front-row seats are equipped with heating and ventilation, while the second-row seats offer the same along with massage functionality. Notably, the third-row seats lack these features, though their adjustability adds convenience. The cabin features a 12.3-inch LCD instrument panel and a central 14.6-inch touchscreen. However, the passenger side misses the 12.3-inch screen found in higher trim levels. The interior color scheme showcases a fusion of black and red tones, further enhanced by a robust 12-speaker Yamaha audio system.

Under the hood, the E9 houses a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine generating 190 hp and 330 Nm, coupled with an electric motor offering an additional 182 horsepower and 300 mm through a 2DHT transmission. The combined output of this hybrid powertrain reaches an impressive 373 hp and 630 Nm, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.8 seconds. The 25.57 kWh ternary (NMC) battery empowers the E9 to achieve an electric range of 106 km (WLTP) and a PHEV range of 1,032 km (WLTC). Rapid DC charging allows the battery to reach 80% in just 30 minutes, while fuel consumption averages at 6 L/100km.

Priced at 349,800 yuan (48,790 USD), the GAC Trumpchi E9 Champion Edition offers a 10% reduction compared to the top-tier Grandmaster Edition. With identical exterior aesthetics to the Grandmaster Edition, the Champion Edition appeals to customers seeking a harmonious balance between design and cost, ultimately making it a formidable contender against rivals like the BYD Denza D9.