Zeekr 009: The Electric MPV That Redefines Luxury Family Travel – Pros and Cons

The Zeekr 009 excels in passenger space, with three rows of generously proportioned, individually adjustable seats that accommodate adults in real comfort. Its electric powertrain delivers instant, surge-free acceleration, making merging and overtaking effortless. Range is generous for an EV of its size, enabling long-distance travel without range anxiety. The cabin is whisper-quiet, isolating occupants from road and wind noise, while the build quality and materials – soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting, and premium upholstery – elevate the luxury feel. Advanced driver-assistance systems (adaptive cruise, lane keep) are intuitive and work smoothly on highways.

The sheer size of the Zeekr 009 makes it a handful in tight urban environments: parking, narrow streets, and multi-storey car parks require caution. The ride, while composed on smooth tarmac, becomes fidgety over bumps and broken surfaces, as the heavy battery pack forces a firm suspension tune. With all three rows in use, luggage space is limited to a shallow well behind the third row, barely enough for a few soft bags. Energy consumption rises noticeably in cold weather, reducing real-world range compared to temperate conditions.

On the open road, the Zeekr 009 is a superb long-distance cruiser – the cabin stays hushed, the seats are supportive, and the powertrain delivers relaxed progress. Around town, the calm powertrain character is pleasant, but the long wheelbase compromises turning radius, requiring multi-point manoeuvres in tight spots. Low-speed ride quality suffers from a busy vertical motion on urban imperfections, which can be felt by front occupants. The driver seating position is commanding, though the large A-pillars create blind spots.

The interior is highly configurable: middle-row captain's chairs with legrests, a collapsible rear seat, and a pass-through to the rear. The massive panoramic roof brings light into all rows. Infotainment is handled by a large central touchscreen with crisp graphics and over-the-air updates; rear passengers get their own screen for entertainment. A front trunk provides secure storage for charging cables. However, many controls are touch-sensitive, requiring a glance to operate, and some tech features come with subscription fees. The sliding rear doors are a boon for tight parking spots.

Long-term reliability is unproven, as the model is relatively new. Service network outside China is limited, so owners in less-served markets may face parts delays. Software updates are frequent, sometimes introducing new features but also occasional bugs. Battery degradation over several years is an unknown, though the manufacturer offers a reasonable warranty. The car's complex electronics and multitude of screens mean higher potential failure points compared to simpler EVs.

Shortlist the Zeekr 009 if you are a large family wanting maximum space for passengers with the quiet refinement of an EV, and you frequently travel long distances on highways. It also suits tech enthusiasts who value the latest digital features and over-the-air updates. Avoid it if you primarily drive in congested urban areas with tight parking, or if you prioritise a cushioned ride on poor roads. Budget-focused buyers should consider the potential for higher depreciation relative to more established MPV brands, and those who need versatile cargo space for bulky items should look at minivans with stowable seats.