For years, Malaysians shopping for a premium MPV have had one answer – buy a reconditioned Japanese luxury MPV as they’re comfortable, prestigious, and hold their value incredibly well. However, the arrival of the GWM WEY G9 PHEV has changed that conversation.
Priced at RM269,888, the locally assembled WEY G9 isn’t trying to beat a brand-new Alphard or Vellfire at their own game. Instead, it offers something arguably more compelling—it gives buyers shopping in the RM250k to RM350k range a brand-new, fully-warranted luxury MPV that’s packed with technology, significantly more fuel-efficient, and surprisingly enjoyable to drive.
After spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear that the WEY G9 deserves a spot on every premium MPV buyer’s shortlist.
Luxury where it matters
One look inside the WEY G9 and it’s obvious where GWM spent the money.
The cabin feels genuinely premium, with Nappa leather upholstery, soft-touch materials across the dashboard and door panels, real metal trim, massage, heating and ventilation for the first two rows, captain seats with electric adjustment, panoramic sunroof, a large digital instrument cluster and twin infotainment displays.
The second-row experience is undoubtedly the highlight. The powered captain seats recline generously, come with extendable ottomans, and are comfortable enough to spend hours in.
However, this is also where perspective is important. While the WEY G9 feels luxurious, it still doesn’t quite match the exceptional craftsmanship, material quality and near-silent refinement of a brand-new Toyota Alphard or Vellfire.
Door operation feels heavier and more precise in the Toyotas, switchgear has a more premium tactility, and cabin insulation remains among the best in the industry. That’s ultimately why a new Alphard or Vellfire commands around RM500,000.
Powerful performance without the fuel bills
One area where the WEY G9 comfortably fights back is under the bonnet. Its plug-in hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motors to produce a massive 394 PS and 685 Nm of torque, making it considerably more powerful than most premium MPVs on sale today.
Power delivery is smooth, immediate and effortless, and pulling away from traffic lights, overtaking on the highway, or climbing hilly roads even fully loaded was done effortlessly by the G9.
More importantly, it remains impressively efficient.
The large battery allows meaningful electric-only driving for daily commutes, while the hybrid system keeps fuel consumption remarkably low during longer journeys—something no conventional petrol-powered reconditioned Alphard or Vellfire can realistically match.
For families covering significant annual mileage, the potential savings at the fuel pump become increasingly attractive.
Surprisingly pleasant to drive
Large MPVs rarely inspire confidence from behind the wheel, but the WEY G9 is different.
Although measuring 5,410 mm long, visibility is good, steering is light without feeling disconnected, while the suspension strikes a commendable balance between comfort and body control.
It’s simply less intimidating to drive than some of the newer all-electric luxury MPVs.
Technology overload
Equipment levels are another strong selling point.
Highlights include:
- Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- 360-degree camera with transparent chassis view
- Automatic parking assistance
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane centring assist
- Tri-zone climate control
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Head-up display
- Soft-close doors
- Powered sliding doors
- Premium audio system
- Multiple USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin
The amount of equipment included for the asking price is genuinely impressive.
Still room for improvement
Despite all its strengths, the WEY G9 isn’t quite the finished article. Compared with the Zeekr 009, the cabin isn’t quite as whisper-quiet at highway speeds, ride refinement isn’t quite as polished, and it misses some of the premium touches buyers now expect in this segment, such as a roof-mounted rear entertainment display and the excellent Yamaha premium sound system found in the Zeekr.
Likewise, buyers expecting Lexus-like craftsmanship may still find the plastics, switchgear and overall fit-and-finish a step behind Toyota’s flagship luxury MPVs.
These aren’t deal breakers—but they are reminders that there’s still a hierarchy in this segment.
Ownership peace of mind
One of the biggest advantages over buying a reconditioned import is ownership confidence.
The WEY G9 comes with a comprehensive manufacturer warranty, including an eight-year or 200,000 km warranty for the high-voltage battery, while local assembly also means stronger aftersales support and easier access to parts through GWM Malaysia’s growing dealer network.
For many buyers, that peace of mind alone is worth serious consideration.
Verdict
The GWM WEY G9 PHEV doesn’t dethrone the Toyota Alphard or Vellfire as the benchmark luxury MPV and neither does it quite reach the level of refinement and feature richness offered by the Zeekr 009.
But perhaps that’s missing the point.
Instead, it offers something many Malaysian buyers have been waiting for – a genuinely luxurious, well-equipped, powerful and fuel-efficient premium MPV that costs roughly the same as a reconditioned Alphard or Vellfire—but arrives brand new, with a full manufacturer’s warranty and the latest plug-in hybrid technology.
If you’re shopping in the RM300,000 bracket, the WEY G9 isn’t just worth considering. It may well be the smartest buy in the segment.
