Editor : Mark K | Cars&TechSG

Fun Facts First

GAC, short for Guangzhou Automobile Group, is a major Chinese automaker expanding its global footprint, and its core brand has recently entered Singapore with a flagship offering aimed at the premium segment; the first model being sold here is the GAC E9 luxury plug-in hybrid MPV, a 7-seater that blends comfort, technology and long-distance usability by combining a turbocharged 2.0 L engine with an electric motor for a combined driving range of slightly over 1,000 km, and offering features like reclining captain's seats, advanced climate control and a high-end interior that positions it against established rivals in the large MPV class. 

In this review, we look at how the GAC E9 fares in real-world performance, comfort, technology and overall value for buyers in Singapore's competitive and increasingly electrified vehicle market.

The GAC E9 doesn't arrive quietly — it makes a statement the moment it comes into view. Its design language leans into presence and poise rather than sportiness, befitting a luxury MPV destined for city streets, business transfers, and family journeys alike.

Front Fascia — Commanding and Premium

The front end is unmistakably bold. A large, vertically emphasized grille occupies most of the fascia, immediately establishing road presence. The grille is dressed with prominent metallic strips, giving it a layered, high-end appearance that leans toward limousine styling rather than minimalism. This treatment makes the E9 look substantial and premium, especially when viewed head-on.

The headlamp units are sharp and structured, framing the grille with a modern lighting signature. However, the daytime running lights are visually quite large, and while they enhance presence, a slimmer and sleeker DRL design could have delivered a more refined, upscale look to match the elegance of the grille detailing.

The bumper design is upright and solid, reinforcing the vehicle's width and height instead of pursuing aggressive aerodynamic sculpting.

From the side, the E9 clearly communicates its MPV mission. The roofline runs straight and level, maximizing headroom across all three rows rather than tapering for style. The tall glasshouse improves visibility and enhances the airy cabin feel.

The body sides are clean with gentle character lines, but the emphasis is on space efficiency rather than flowing coupe-like shapes. The doors use conventional handle designs, consistent with the E9's practical, executive transport focus rather than futuristic styling cues.

The multi-spoke alloy wheels suit the vehicle's upscale identity, but the standout detail remains the self-levelling centre rim cap — the emblem stays upright regardless of wheel rotation. This is a premium automotive touch more often associated with ultra-luxury brands and reinforces the E9's executive aspirations.

Rear Design — Broad and Formal

The rear styling mirrors the front's sense of stature. The tailgate is broad and upright, with horizontally oriented tail lamps that emphasize width. There is no sporty taper — instead, the E9 presents a formal, composed rear end that suits chauffeur-driven duties and family luxury use.

Interior Impressions

Inside, the E9 impresses immediately with a rich, executive ambience. The dashboard design is contemporary yet restrained, avoiding the overly digital clutter seen in some modern vehicles. A 12.3-inch full LCD driver display provides crisp driving information, while a 10.1-inch multifunction touchscreen handles media and vehicle controls in a layout that feels modern but not overwhelming.

The two-tone wine red and black leather seats set a luxurious tone. In the GX variant, semi-aniline leather is used for the first and second rows, with leather upholstery in the third row. Materials feel premium throughout, and the cabin benefits from soundproof glass that keeps the environment quiet and serene. Visibility from the driver's seat is wide, helping offset the vehicle's size.

Practical luxury touches stand out. The cup holders offer both heating and cooling functions, and a manual fridge allows drinks to be kept chilled. A crystal gear selector adds a tactile sense of elegance, while ambient lighting stretches across the top, sides, and front of the cabin. Even the sunroof carries decorative design patterns, reinforcing the sense of occasion.

The cabin is also supported by an 8-speaker sound system and a ventilated 50W wireless charging pad. The system remains user-friendly, although minor infotainment lag can occur — such as a brief delay before the panoramic camera view activates upon signal stalk activation.

Second and Third Row Comfort

The E9 truly shines in the second row. The captain seats are plush and highly adjustable, with armrest-mounted control screens allowing passengers to activate massage functions, adjust seating positions, and enter spa-like comfort modes. Rear occupants also receive individual infotainment screens (which require internet connection for apps), remote controls, USB-C ports, air-conditioning controls, and retractable sunshades.

Access to the third row requires manually sliding the second-row seat forward, but a memory function returns it to position afterward. The third row accommodates two adults comfortably, with three possible for shorter trips, and folding tables add versatility.

Boot Practicalityg

With all three rows in place, the E9 offers 580 litres of luggage capacity — adequate for daily needs or airport runs. Folding the third row opens up significantly more cargo space for larger loads.

With all three rows in place, the E9 offers 580 litres of luggage capacity — adequate for daily needs or airport runs. Folding the third row opens up significantly more cargo space for larger loads.

On Road Performance: 

On the road, the E9 prioritises comfort. The suspension absorbs bumps effectively, and passengers report minimal vibrations or harshness. There is some body roll, and cornering is best taken at moderate speeds for optimal stability and comfort. Acceleration is sufficient for a vehicle of this size, and Sport mode can sharpen responses when needed, though the E9 is clearly tuned for calm, steady progress.

The turning radius is less than ideal, requiring about two-and-a-half to three lanes for a U-turn. The draught-free air-conditioning system is innovative, though cooling performance improves when set to around 19 degrees. Driver assistance features are strong, with a clear 540-degree panoramic camera system and intelligent parking assist helping in tight spaces. Blind-spot monitoring adds seat vibration, flashing red ambient light alerts, and warning sounds when obstacles are detected.

Fuel efficiency during the media drive was recorded at 6.3 L/100 km, with a manufacturer-claimed combined range of up to 1,032 km.

The Bottom Line:

The GAC E9 succeeds by focusing on what matters most in a luxury MPV: passenger comfort, executive-level second-row seating, premium cabin ambience, and long-distance usability. It is not a dynamic handler, and minor tech lag and cooling limitations exist, but these do little to detract from its core mission.

Ultimately, the E9 is best understood as a refined, feature-rich executive lounge on wheels — a vehicle designed to move occupants in comfort and quiet sophistication rather than chase driving thrills.

Check out more images of the ride at our Instagram Page!

For more information, visit https://www.gacmotor.sg/models/e9 or contact us via email or Instagram DM!