The Chinese automobile industry has made a colossal leap, ceasing to be just an assembly shop and beginning to dictate fashion in the premium crossover segment. The most striking example of this transformation was Li Xiang Li 9, which actually replaced the model L ONE and has incorporated all the advanced developments of the brand. This full-size SUV is positioned as the ideal family car, offering a level of comfort comparable to business class, while boasting impressive power and technology.
You should pay attention to this model if you are looking for a balance between eco-friendly travel and the ability to take long trips without being tied to charging stations. Unlike many competitors, Li Xiang relied on time-tested series hybrid technology, where the internal combustion engine works exclusively as a generator. This solution avoids transmission problems and provides the smooth ride characteristic of electric vehicles, while maintaining the mobility of a gasoline car.
The exterior design is made in a strict but modern manner, dominated by straight lines and massive shapes, emphasizing the status of the car. Inside the cabin, engineers and designers have created a space that is more reminiscent of a premium hotel lounge than a traditional car cabin. It is this aspect that often becomes the decisive factor when choosing between Li 9 and European analogues, since the level of multimedia equipment here is head and shoulders above many famous competitors.
Technical characteristics and power plant
With my heart Li Xiang Li 9 is a complex hybrid system consisting of two electric motors and a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The total power of the power plant reaches an impressive 449 horsepower and a torque of 620 Nm, which allows this two-ton giant to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. Series hybrid It works on the principle that the wheels are always powered by electricity, and the combustion engine only kicks in to generate power when the battery charge drops below a certain level.
The 44.5 kWh battery provides a pure electric power range of up to 215 kilometers on the WLTC cycle, which covers the needs of most urban residents. A full charge from a 7kW stationary station will take about 6 hours, but using direct current (DC) fast charging you can top up from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. It is important to understand that fuel consumption directly depends on driving style and battery charge level.
⚠️ Attention: When operating in the “discharged battery” mode (when the internal combustion engine is constantly running), fuel consumption can increase to 8-9 liters per 100 km, which is an excellent indicator for a car of this size, but requires getting used to the new operating algorithm.
The engineers have provided several modes of operation of the power plant, which can be switched between through the central menu or voice commands. In mode Electric The car behaves like a pure electric vehicle until the charge drops to a minimum. Mode Hybrid optimizes the operation of the internal combustion engine to maintain an average charge level, which is ideal for the highway. There is also a mode Performance, where both energy sources operate at full capacity for maximum dynamics.
Features of internal combustion engines at high speeds
At speeds above 100 km/h the system can briefly connect the combustion engine directly to the wheels via a single-stage transmission to improve efficiency, but in 95% of cases it only functions as a generator.
Interior, multimedia and passenger comfort
Salon Li 9 - this is a separate topic for conversation, since the concept of a “home office on wheels” is applied here. The front panel is devoid of physical buttons; climate control and basic functions are controlled through huge screens. There are separate displays for the driver and front passenger, and a folding projection screen that lowers from the ceiling is provided for the rear row of passengers. Multimedia system is based on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, providing performance comparable to top-end tablets.
The second row seats, which are often called “captain’s”, deserve special attention. They are equipped with massage, ventilation, heating and the ability to adjust the back angle up to the lying position. Between the seats there is a retractable refrigerator that can cool drinks or, conversely, heat them, which is a unique feature for long trips with children. Finishing materials include genuine Nappa leather and soft plastics that are pleasant to the touch.
- 🚗 Three-zone climate control with a HEPA air purification system that removes 99% of dust and allergens.
- 🔊 Premium audio system with 21 speakers and Dolby Atmos support for surround sound.
- 🎮 Game console for rear passengers with the ability to connect joysticks and cameras.
The voice assistant in the car understands natural speech and allows you to control almost all functions without taking your hands off the wheel. You can ask to open the sunroof, change the temperature, turn on navigation or play your favorite music. The system recognizes commands even when the air conditioner is running and the ventilation is open, which indicates the high quality of the microphones and noise reduction algorithms. Interface The system is tailored to the user, allowing you to customize profiles for each family member.
Dimensions, trunk and practicality in everyday life
Li Xiang Li 9 belongs to the class of full-size SUVs, its length is 5218 mm, width - 1998 mm, and height - 1800 mm. The 3105 mm wheelbase provides enormous legroom for passengers in the second and third rows. Despite its impressive size, the car has good maneuverability thanks to the all-wheel drive system and responsive steering, although parking in tight yards will still have to be done carefully, using all-round cameras with 3D modeling.
Cargo space varies depending on the position of the third row seats. In standard five-seat mode you get 660 liters of usable space, enough for several large suitcases and a pram. With the third row folded, the volume increases to impressive figures, allowing you to transport large loads. The third row, although intended more for children or short trips for adults, is quite functional and equipped with its own air ducts and USB ports.
| Parameter | Meaning | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5218 mm | Larger than many competitors |
| Wheelbase | 3105 mm | Spacious second row |
| Curb weight | 2520 kg | Heavy due to battery |
| Tank volume | 65 l | Power reserve over 1000 km |
To increase practicality, engineers have provided many niches for small items, wireless chargers for smartphones and powerful 220V sockets in the trunk. This allows the car to be used for picnics by connecting portable stoves or electrical equipment. Ergonomics The cabin is designed so that every passenger feels comfortable, no matter where he sits.
⚠️ Attention: Due to the large rear overhang and massive bumpers, cross-country ability on steep inclines may be limited. You should not use this car for serious off-roading; its elements are asphalt and light soil.
Safety and driver assistance systems
Safety in Li 9 provided with a complex of systems Li AD Pro or Li AD Max (depending on configuration), which include lidars, radars and high-resolution cameras. The car is able to independently change lanes, maintain a lane, maintain a distance, and even park without driver intervention. Adaptive cruise control It works smoothly and predictably, without jerking the car when braking the vehicle in front.
The car body is made of high-strength steel, and in critical areas it is reinforced with aluminum elements to absorb impact energy. The presence of multiple airbags, including a central one between the driver and passenger, minimizes the risk of injury in side collisions. The driver fatigue monitoring system analyzes facial expressions and driving behavior, sounding alarms when signs of drowsiness are detected.
- 🛡️ Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
- 👁️ Blind spot monitoring camera with image projection onto the dashboard.
- 🅿️ Automatic parking from memory (memorizing the trajectory of entry into the garage).
An important aspect is the software, which is updated regularly over the air (OTA). Manufacturers are constantly improving security system algorithms and adding new functions, which makes the car relevant throughout its entire service life. However, it is worth remembering that electronics requires a stable Internet connection for full operation of cloud services.
☑️ Check before buying a used Li 9
Operation in Russian conditions
Operation Li Xiang Li 9 in Russia has its own characteristics related to the climate and the quality of roads. The hybrid installation performs well in cold weather: the internal combustion engine quickly warms up the interior and battery, minimizing the loss of range that is typical for pure electric cars. In winter, it is recommended to use the charge saving mode to have a reserve of energy for warming up and driving in the city. Suspension with pneumatic elements allows you to change the ground clearance, which is useful when driving on slushy snow or bad roads.
With service, things are more complicated than with mass brands, since there is still little official dealer network. Owning such a car requires the presence of trusted service centers specializing in Chinese technology, or a willingness to have the car serviced by “officials” in large cities. Consumables such as filters and brake pads are often common with other models, but body parts will have to wait from China.
The quality of the road surface also makes its own adjustments: the air suspension is sensitive to strong impacts, so in winter and spring you should be careful with deep holes. Using the “Comfort” or “Sport” mode on rough roads is not recommended; it is better to switch to a mode that increases the stiffness of the shock absorbers or increases the ground clearance. Liquidity Such cars on the secondary market are still in their infancy, but the demand for technologically advanced hybrids is growing.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a car imported through parallel import, carefully check the software compatibility. Some functions may be blocked or not work correctly without adaptation to the region (SIM cards, navigation, voice control).
To preserve battery life in severe frosts (-20°C and below), try to keep the car in a warm garage or connect it to a charging station, even if the charge is high. This will allow the thermal management system to maintain the optimal temperature of the elements.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the real range of the Li Xiang Li 9 in winter?
In winter, at temperatures around -10...-15°C, the electric range decreases by about 30-40% and is about 120-140 km. In hybrid mode, the total range (petrol + electric) is typically 700-800 km depending on driving style and heating usage.
Does the hybrid system require special maintenance?
Yes, in addition to the standard engine oil change (every 10,000 km), it is necessary to diagnose the high-voltage battery and the cooling system of the hybrid components. It is recommended to check the antifreeze level in the battery circuits at least once a year.
Does the voice assistant work in Russian?
The system natively supports Chinese and English. To fully operate in Russian, you often need to install third-party applications or flash the head units, which may void the warranty. Basic navigation commands can be duplicated via a smartphone.
Is it difficult to find spare parts for Li 9 in Russia?
There are usually no problems with consumables (filters, pads, brushes), since they are often suitable from other models. Body parts, optics and electronics elements are ordered from China, the waiting period can range from 3 weeks to 2 months.
Li Xiang Li 9 is a technologically advanced hybrid that is ideal for those who want the comfort of an electric car, but are not ready to depend on the charging infrastructure. Its main assets are its luxurious interior and advanced multimedia.