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  • Power comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and two electric motor options.
  • The premium exterior design is combined with a plush and well-equipped interior.

China has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the automotive world. Once known mainly for cheap and cheerful cars, many Chinese brands are now stepping up with impressive, if not often generic luxury models. The latest high-end SUV from one of China’s biggest automotive companies, GAC, is the Trumpchi S9.

This vehicle might just be China’s affordable answer to the Range Rover, or, you know, a version that took a long, hard look at a few European classics, swiped a few styling cues, and added just enough luxury to pretend it doesn’t need to apologize for existing.

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Previewed at the Shanghai Auto Show, the S9 has quite a suave and sophisticated look and could easily pass as a product from a European brand. At the front, it sports a prominent light bar connected to sleek, narrow LED headlights, a black lower grille, and large air intakes.

Adding to the Trumpchi S9’s premium appeal are flush door handles and an option for two-tone paint finishes. A small chrome trim strip runs along the base of the side and rear windows, helping to visually separate the top and bottom halves of the vehicle. These design touches help reinforce the S9’s upscale look and feel.

Found at the rear of Trumpchi’s latest model are LED taillights, a light bar, and a large tailgate. Data reveals the S9 is 5,060 mm (199.2 inches) long, 1,950 mm (76.7 inches) wide, and stands 1,760 mm (69.2 inches) tall, with a generous 2,930 mm (115.3 inches) wheelbase.

The interior looks like a mix between the cabin of the new Hyundai Palisade and pretty much every new premium car to come out of China. There’s a simple two-spoke steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, and a large infotainment display perched in the center of the dashboard. As has become common in recent years, there are a pair of wireless charging pads, two cupholders, and a split center console.

The S9 will come as a six-seater, with the second row offering a unique setup. A large screen folds down from the ceiling, accompanied by tray tables and a small screen to control the climate and audio systems. The second-row captain’s chairs are electrically adjustable, providing a more premium experience for rear passengers.

Under the hood, the Trumpchi S9 will be offered exclusively as a plug-in hybrid. All models feature a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower. The base model adds a 231 hp electric motor, resulting in an all-wheel-drive configuration and a total output of 392 horsepower. The flagship models will push this even further, with a combined 501 horsepower.