The refreshed Aito M9 has arrived in China, and according to Autohome's first drive, the flagship SUV has shifted its personality from sporty to comfort-oriented. The range-extender (EREV) Ultra version now produces 497 kW (667 hp), up from 365 kW (489 hp), and 765 Nm of torque, a jump from 675 Nm. That propels the near-3-tonne SUV from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds.
Visually, the M9 keeps its imposing silhouette but gains a taller nose and a wider body, enhancing its road presence. The front now features a new-generation million-pixel full-colour smart projector headlight system that can cast colourful images and support interactive welcome animations, movie watching, and even gaming. A new mesh grille with chrome accents adds to the premium look. At the rear, a new ISD smart interactive taillight offers scenario-based lighting effects and over-the-air updates for custom light shows.
Inside, the cabin gets a tech overhaul with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, dual 17.2-inch displays, and an AR-HUD. The HarmonyOS cockpit 4.0 includes the upgraded XiaoYi AI assistant, capable of continuous dialogue and multi-step commands. The second-row features zero-gravity seats with heating, ventilation, multi-point massage, and leg rests, plus a one-touch recline for business or family use. A long slide rail (over 1 metre of travel) and a flat floor make third-row access easy, and the third row itself is no afterthought: it offers electric recline, independent air vents, charging ports, and seat heating.
Under the skin, the M9 EREV Ultra rides on closed dual-chamber air springs, dual-valve continuously variable damping, and rear-wheel steering. It uses an 800V electrical architecture, and Autohome reports a 30-80% fast charge in just 16 minutes. The claimed CLTC combined range is 1,405 km (a WLTP estimate would be around 1,120-1,190 km, given CLTC's optimism). Despite a body over 5.2 metres long, the turning radius is a compact 5.1 metres, aiding manoeuvrability in tight spots.
Driving Impressions and Trade-offs
Autohome notes that the new M9 feels more refined than before, with lighter accelerator tuning and linear power delivery in Comfort mode. Noise insulation is generally good, though tyre roar is noticeable, and the range extender becomes audible at low battery levels. The trade-offs for the added luxury and battery capacity are a hefty curb weight, which increases highway energy consumption, and the sheer size, which may challenge drivers in very narrow lanes.
The article suggests that for five-seat buyers, the Max+ trim is well-equipped, while six-seat buyers should consider the Ultra for its right-side second-row zero-gravity seat and projector system. The M9 continues to target the premium family SUV segment, competing with the likes of the Li Auto L9 and other large six-seat EREVs in China.
Based on reporting by 汽车之家. Edited and published in English by geisou.
