Here’s a glimpse of Xiaomi’s next move: the full-size YU9 SUV

After the impressive launch of its YU7 sport utility vehicle, Xiaomi appears to be accelerating its automotive ambitions. A new, heavily camouflaged full-size SUV has been spotted undergoing road tests in China, and all signs point to this being the company's third electric car, codenamed "Kunlun."

This new model, rumored to be badged as the YU9, is venturing into the large family SUV segment and, reportedly, away from a purely battery-powered setup. Unlike its siblings, the SU7 sedan and the recently unveiled YU7, the YU9 is rumored to be an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). This means it will pair a battery and electric motors with a small gasoline power generator.

The ICE will act as a generator to recharge the battery on the go, aiming to eliminate range anxiety. This approach is not new; it's a formula successfully employed by key rivals Xiaomi is targeting - Li Auto L9 and the Huawei-backed Aito M9.

Spy shots circulating on Chinese social media reveal a vehicle with a commanding presence. The YU9 is a big machine, estimated to be around 208.7 inches long. Its design is tall and boxy, with a high beltline and sharp, defined edges that contrast with the sleeker, more athletic profiles of the SU7 and YU7.

This more traditional, upright stance is common in the premium three-row SUV market. A roof-mounted LiDAR unit is clearly visible, signaling Xiaomi's intent to pack the YU9 with its latest advanced driver-assistance systems. The overall proportions have even drawn some speculative, and perhaps generous, comparisons to ultra-luxury models like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

Under the skin, the YU9 is expected to feature a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, reportedly sourced from Dong'an Power, that will serve as the range extender. This generator will feed a battery pack that powers a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system. The official figures are non-existent, but industry chatter points to a combined output of over 400 horsepower, enabling a 0-to-62 mph sprint in approximately 5 seconds.

The real headline figure, however, is the potential range. The YU9 is anticipated to travel over 124 miles on battery power alone, with the range extender pushing the total combined range to 932 miles on the CLTC cycle.

Inside, the YU9 will be Xiaomi's first vehicle to offer six-seat or seven-seat configurations (2+2+2 or 2+3+2). The interior is expected to follow the tech-centric blueprint of its predecessors. This likely includes a large central touchscreen, a rotating digital instrument cluster, and the seamless integration of Xiaomi's HyperOS. To help manage its considerable size, the YU9 is also rumored to feature rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability.

Xiaomi is going with very aggressive pricing for its EVs, and the YU9 is expected to follow suit. It will enter a competitive field, challenging established players like the Li Auto L9, which starts at RMB 409,800 (approximately $57,000), and the Aito M9, priced from RMB 469,800 (about $65,500).

Speculation suggests Xiaomi will price the YU9 to start around RMB 359,800 (roughly $50,000), with higher-end versions staying below the RMB 500,000 (around $69,000).

Via