Despite its large dimensions, premium equipment and electric powertrain, the SAIC Maxus MIFA 9 is attractively priced between 270,000 and 380,000 Yuan in China, or $40,200 – $56,700 USD.
The MIFA 9 is the first production vehicle to benefit from a unitized platform called Maxus Intelligent Flexible Architecture (hence the model name). It is 5.27 meters long with 3.2 meters between the axles.
The headlights aren’t grouped, and both sliding doors are power-assisted by default. The dashboard has zero physical buttons, instead offering a trio of touchscreens, including one for the front passenger.
Second and third row occupants enjoy separate seats with individual adjustments. The middle row is the best-equipped one with infotainment displays, a power socket and individual HVAC controls, as well as massage, ventilation and heating built into the seats.
A 90-kWh CATL battery powers the minivan, letting it cover up to 560 km (348 miles) on a charge. The electric motor works alone, driving the front axle with 245 PS (242 hp / 180 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Adaptive cruise control uses data from five radars and six cameras to stay aware of its surroundings.
When Maxus revealed the minivan last fall, it promised to bring it to Europe as well. Aside from this, a long-range version is expected to join the lineup next year with up to 650 km (404 miles) worth of battery power at its disposal.