A Chinese company is preparing its third model, which will be a large three-row crossover. Thanks to fresh spy photos, we have the opportunity to examine the key features of its exterior design.
The creation of an automotive division for the Chinese corporation Xiaomi was first announced in March 2021, and just three years later, its first model—the electric sedan SU7—was fully unveiled. In the spring of last year, it was joined by the electric crossover YU7, and now a flagship model with the index YU9 is gearing up for its premiere.
While the company's first two models are designed in a unified style, the third, according to the latest spy photos, will differ significantly from them. The new entry in the popular Chinese segment of full-size three-row crossovers will more closely resemble other representatives of this class and will feature an angular design. The outlines of the headlight units are already visible at the front, which in shape may evoke associations with the Volkswagen Atlas. They will likely be connected by an LED strip, although this element is not yet visible in the spy photos. Meanwhile, the shape of the front bumper is already discernible—quite traditional in form, with small vertical decorative inserts at the edges. The body proportions themselves do not particularly stand out among other models in the segment, though the side mirrors and key-type door handles are similar to the other two Xiaomi models. The rear end is surprisingly reminiscent of the Zeekr 9X crossover, thanks to nearly identical taillight shapes with vertical blocks and two horizontal strips between them. Incidentally, the spy photos reveal two versions of the large Xiaomi crossover: they differ in rear overhang length, as well as the shape of the rear pillars and even the angle of the rear window. Most likely, the shorter variant, following the example of competitors, will feature a five-seat interior and the index YU8.
Beyond design, Xiaomi's third model also stands out technically: it will feature a series hybrid powertrain. This will include a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine acting as a generator, and electric motors with an output of around 500 hp. The expected electric-only range could be about 400-500 km, with a total range of up to 1500 km under the CLTC cycle. Naturally, the model will come with an advanced autopilot system, hinted at by the lidar integrated into the front part of the roof.
The premiere of the new model will take place within this year. Meanwhile, last month saw the debut of the high-performance Xiaomi YU7 GT crossover, which has already set a Nürburgring record among crossovers.
Comments (0)