In a full-size SUV market long dominated by established players like the Li Auto L9 and AITO M9, the Deepal S09 enters as a formidable challenger. Positioning itself not merely as a competitor but as a value disruptor, the Deepal S09 leverages a more accessible price point, advanced extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) technology, and forward-looking intelligent features to reset expectations in this premium segment.

Under the hood, the Deepal S09 is powered by Deepal’s next-generation Blue Whale EREV system, featuring a 1.5-liter (1,497 mL) range extender. Paired with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup delivering a combined output of 362 kW and 620 N·m of torque, the powertrain exudes flagship-level composure. Unlike many EVs that prioritize abrupt acceleration, the Deepal S09’s throttle mapping emphasizes linear, refined delivery. Initial response is smooth and progressive, with power flowing seamlessly; depress the pedal further, and ample torque surges forth, effortlessly propelling the 2.5-tonne vehicle past slower traffic while retaining substantial reserve power at higher speeds.

By comparison, the Geely Galaxy M9 (EREV variant) also employs a 1.5T (1,499 mL) range extender and dual-motor AWD system, producing approximately 350 kW and 600 N·m. However, its calibration leans toward agility—sharper initial response creates a sense of nimbleness unexpected in a vehicle of this size. The philosophical divergence is clear: the Deepal S09 embodies a “powerful yet restrained” cruiser, while the Galaxy M9 positions itself as a tech-savvy pioneer using dynamism to offset its bulk.

In terms of range, the Deepal S09 boasts a substantial 52 kWh battery pack, offering over 300 km of CLTC-rated pure-electric driving and a comprehensive range exceeding 1,300 km. The Galaxy M9, equipped with a roughly 45 kWh battery, delivers around 240 km of electric range and a total range surpassing 1,200 km. Both models effectively eliminate range anxiety through their flexible “fuel-and-electric” EREV architecture.

“The Deepal S09 isn’t just carving out a slice of the existing full-size SUV pie—it’s pursuing ‘technology democratization,’ making flagship-tier mobility accessible to more families.”— Han Lu, New Energy Vehicle Critic

Settling into the Deepal S09’s cabin, the commanding driving position and expansive align with expectations for a large SUV. Its air suspension system filters out minor road imperfections with near-perfect efficacy, creating a sensation as if the cabin floats above the pavement on a thick cushion of air. NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels are class-leading. Over speed bumps, the suspension absorbs impacts with soft, controlled motions, transmitting only muted thuds into the cabin—a hallmark of premium refinement.

Highway cruising is where the Deepal S09 truly shines. Its substantial mass instills exceptional stability, while wind and road noise are meticulously isolated, ensuring a serene interior environment.

The Galaxy M9, meanwhile, combines CDC (Continuous Damping Control) adaptive dampers with air suspension, offering a comfortable baseline enriched by multiple chassis modes and quicker response times. On undulating roads, body control is crisper, blending luxury with a more pronounced technological character and adjustability.

Driving the Deepal S09 requires adjusted expectations: it is not engineered for cornering thrills. Steering feel is weighty with slight on-center vagueness, and the steering ratio prioritizes stability over agility—entirely consistent with its dimensions. During fast cornering, body roll is noticeable yet remains controlled, progressive, and dignified. Every dynamic setting serves one purpose: steadiness.

Conversely, the Galaxy M9 incorporates rear-wheel steering to significantly enhance maneuverability, reducing its turning circle and simplifying urban U-turns and parking. While both SUVs feature robust AWD systems for safety, their driving philosophies diverge sharply: the Deepal S09 is a stately “cruiser,” whereas the M9 acts as a tech-infused “flagship vessel.”

Upon entering the Deepal S09, the eye is immediately drawn to its  central display layout. Rather than replicating Li Auto’s dual-screen setup or AITO’s multi-display array, Deepal opts for a massive floating central touchscreen paired with a fully digital instrument cluster, while the front-passenger entertainment screen is seamlessly integrated into the overall design. The uniquely styled steering wheel offers excellent grip, and the seats—upholstered in premium leather—are generously padded, featuring full electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions across all rows. The second-row captain’s chairs include extendable leg rests and multi-angle adjustments, delivering first-class comfort.

Material quality underscores craftsmanship, with extensive use of soft-touch surfaces, wood-grain trim, and brushed metal accents. In contrast, the Galaxy M9 emphasizes minimalism, technology, and flexible materials, anchored by the Flyme Auto smart cockpit co-developed by Geely and Meizu. This system enables seamless smartphone integration and adaptable screen configurations. Where the Deepal S09 evokes a “future battleship” aesthetic—bold and tech-forward—the M9 cultivates a “smart living room” ambiance, prioritizing warmth and fluidity.

Intelligent driving assistance represents the core battleground. The Deepal S09 comes equipped with Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 3.0 system, leveraging LiDAR and multi-sensor fusion to support Highway NOA, Urban NCA, and valet parking across diverse scenarios. The Galaxy M9 relies on Geely’s proprietary Xingrui Computing Center and Mobileye chip architecture to deliver comparable L2+ advanced driver-assistance capabilities. Real-world performance in this domain will likely prove decisive for discerning buyers.

“The Deepal S09’s cabin redefines human-machine interaction through a single large display, while the M9’s Flyme Auto leverages mobile ecosystem integration to reshape the in-car experience. These represent two fundamentally different paths to intelligence.”— Zhang Fan, Editor-in-Chief, Intelligent Driving Era

Space remains the undisputed strength of full-size SUVs. The Deepal S09 offers both six- and seven-seat configurations, with a wheelbase exceeding 3,100 mm—placing it squarely alongside the Li Auto L9 and AITO M9. The six-seat version’s second-row captain’s chairs deliver luxurious comfort, while the third row provides genuine usability for adults on short-to-medium journeys, far surpassing token “pet seats.” The Galaxy M9 similarly excels in three-row practicality, thanks to its “space magic” design that maximizes third-row utility. Both achieve top-tier space efficiency, though the Deepal S09 emphasizes ultimate comfort and spaciousness, whereas the M9 appears to prioritize balanced versatility for family outings.

Storage solutions blend ritualistic elegance with functionality. The Deepal S09 features oversized door bins, a voluminous center console armrest, and a rear section of the central tunnel packed with controls and compartments. With all seats upright, trunk capacity remains generous; folding the second and third rows creates a vast, flat load floor. The Galaxy M9 also demonstrates clever storage thinking—such as a large open area beneath the front console—prioritizing everyday convenience.

Their rivalry epitomizes a clash between the “Huawei-enabled” camp and the “Geely ecosystem” approach. Choosing the Deepal S09 means opting for a market-proven top-tier ADAS suite and exceptionally generous hardware specifications. Selecting the M9 reflects greater confidence in Geely’s decades of expertise in vehicle manufacturing, cockpit ecosystems, and chassis tuning.

1.What kind of vehicle is the Deepal S09?

The Deepal S09 is Deepal’s flagship full-size intelligent SUV, powered by an extended-range electric drivetrain. Its key selling points include Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 3.0 autonomous driving system, the new-generation Blue Whale EREV technology, expansive interior space, and luxury-grade comfort features, targeting families in the CNY 300,000–400,000 price bracket.

2.What are the Deepal S09’s core competitive advantages?

Its strengths lie in the integration of three pillars: (1) Huawei’s high-end autonomous driving capability enabling full-scenario intelligence; (2) the advanced Blue Whale EREV system offering long range and low energy consumption; (3) a wheelbase exceeding 3.1 meters delivering limousine-like space and premium amenities; plus Deepal’s consistent value-for-money reputation.

3.How does it perform in terms of electric range and fuel consumption?

Equipped with a large-capacity battery, the Deepal S09 achieves over 300 km of CLTC-rated pure-electric range—sufficient for a week of urban commuting. In depleted-battery mode, the range extender engages smoothly, with WLTC fuel consumption estimated at 7–8 L/100 km—an impressive figure for an SUV of this size.

User Comments:

dnv: “Although the head-up display is positioned quite high, having a full digital instrument cluster is still a great complement.”

chaoren: “As an owner who’s driven my Deepal S09 for 9,000 kilometers, I find it incredibly comfortable. The autonomous driving is outstanding! Adding a mattress to sleep and watch movies inside? Absolutely delightful!”