BIMS 2023: MG previews all-electric, but confusing Maxus 9 MPV

MG's all-electric answer to the Alphard

Yes. We know what you're thinking. MG just came up with an all-electric MPV with another manufacturer's name attached to it.

MG has previewed the Maxus 9 at the 2023 Bangkok International Motor Show. And while its name may spark some confusion, its purpose is clear cut – the MG Maxus 9 is competing against the Toyota Alphard in the luxury 7-seater MPV segment.

When you look in front, the MG badge would probably clear things up a bit for the keen observer. But then again, the Maxus 9 looks nothing like what MG is currently offering in the Philippine market, as it has slim LED lights on both the front and rear.

Meanwhile, inside is where the MG Maxus 9 shows it means business, and a bit of confusion again as the steering wheel says Maxus. The dashboard has a minimalist approach in terms of design and gives its two screens the floating illusion. Most of the cabin trims are wrapped in leather for that upscale feel.

If you look at the second row, then you'll see another name – Mifa 9. You see, in the Chinese market, this MG Maxus 9 is called the Maxus Mifa 9, hence the stitching on the headrests of the ottoman seats. Other features include a dual panoramic sunroof, plus memory, massage, heating, and ventilation functions for the VIP seats.

As mentioned earlier, the 7-seater MPV is fully-electric. It utilizes a single motor that produces 245 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Equipped with a 90 kWh battery, MG says the Maxus 9 can drive up to 540 kilometers on a single charge.

To finally put some light on the naming confusion, the MG Maxus 9 (or the Maxus Mifa 9) is more of a SAIC Motor Corporation product, which is why it's wearing different badges depending on the market it is being sold. Hopefully, once they officially launch the model this May, the naming concerns on the MPV would be sorted out.

As for the Philippines, however, MG is yet to introduce an all-electric model in their lineup, so we may have to wait for the coming weeks and months if the Maxus 9 (or Mifa 9 under Maxus) would eventually be brought into the country.