GWM Malaysia has launched the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV, a new flagship luxury MPV that combines plug-in hybrid performance, full three-row comfort and local assembly. Priced at RM269,800 on-the-road, it enters the market as one of the most powerful and technologically advanced electrified MPVs currently available in Malaysia.
Notably, the G9 is locally assembled (CKD), with Malaysia also serving as GWM’s regional export base for the model in ASEAN.
The launch in Kuala Lumpur was attended by Yang Berhormat Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), together with Mr. James Yang, Vice President of GWM International, and Dr. Hu Xin, Chief Engineer of High Voltage Systems, GWM.
Hi4 Plug-in Hybrid System: 442 PS and Electrified AWD
At the core of the WEY G9 is GWM’s Hi4 intelligent hybrid system, pairing a turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors — one at each axle — enabling electric all-wheel drive capability.
Total system output is rated at 442 PS and 642 Nm, enough for a claimed 0–100 km/h time of 5.7 seconds. That’s sports-sedan pace in a full-size three-row MPV. An Intelligent Torque Vectoring Control (iTVC) system continuously adjusts torque distribution to maintain stability across varying road and weather conditions.
Up to 170 km EV Range, Over 1,000 km Total Driving Range
The plug-in hybrid setup is engineered to balance daily electric usability with long-distance practicality. GWM claims up to 170 km of pure electric range, allowing many urban commutes to be completed without using fuel.
Combined with the 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, total range is rated at over 1,000 km (NEDC). Even with low battery charge, the system maintains a claimed 6.2 litres per 100 km fuel consumption, thanks to seamless switching between Series and Parallel hybrid modes. Real-world figures will vary with driving style, load and air-conditioning use, but the numbers suggest strong efficiency potential for a vehicle of this size and performance.
Three Rows of “First-Class for All” Comfort
Measuring 5,050 mm in length with a 3,085 mm wheelbase, the WEY G9 is designed with interior space as a priority. A flat floor and wide central aisle improve movement between rows.
Key highlights include:
- Nappa leather front seats with ventilation and massage functions
- Second-row Zero Gravity captain seats with one-touch reclining
- A third row shaped to properly accommodate adults, rather than occasional-use seating
The layout reflects WEY’s “First Class for All” approach, where comfort is spread across all three rows rather than focused only on the front.
Quiet Cabin, Premium Audio
Cabin refinement is another focus area. At 120 km/h, interior noise levels are measured at 63.4 dB, achieved through double-glazed acoustic glass, structural insulation and HALOSonic active noise cancellation. In comparison, a normal conversation is around 60 dB while a vacuum cleaner on quiet setting is about 70 dB.
The in-car experience is supported by a 21-speaker, 2,440-watt premium sound system, tuned specifically for the G9’s cabin acoustics.
Practical Luxury for Family and Travel Use
Beyond comfort, the G9 integrates features aimed at real-world family and travel needs:
- 11 USB charging points throughout the cabin
- 3.3 kW external power output for outdoor equipment or emergency use
- A 12.5-litre hot-and-cold refrigerator that can operate for up to 24 hours even when the vehicle is switched off
Both the external power supply and refrigerator can be monitored and controlled remotely via the vehicle’s mobile app.
High-Strength Body and Level 2 Driver Assistance
The body structure uses over 83.01% high-strength steel, with critical pillars reinforced using materials rated between 1,500 and 2,000 MPa. The roof structure is engineered to withstand up to 12 tonnes of pressure — closer to large premium SUV standards than typical MPV construction.
Safety systems include:
- Full-length curtain airbags covering all three rows
- A battery system validated through 89 safety tests
- Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with more than 20 driver-assist and active safety functions
Colours, Warranty and Early Ownership Package
Exterior colours
- Aurora White
- Wisdom Grey
- Nebula Black
Interior themes
- Black interior with grey roof
- Brown interior with grey roof
Early ownership package (first 1,000 customers)
- Complimentary second-row entertainment screen
Standard ownership benefits
- 5 years free connected services data
- 5 years free maintenance
- Complimentary home wallbox charger
Warranty coverage
- 6 years unlimited mileage vehicle warranty
- 8 years or 180,000 km hybrid system warranty (battery pack, motor, control unit)
The pricing places the WEY G9 within the upper tier of large MPVs in Malaysia, but with significantly higher power output and a far more electrified drivetrain than most conventional rivals.
Malaysia as Regional Production and Export Hub
The WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV is assembled locally in Malaysia, which also serves as its ASEAN export base, with exports already underway to Thailand and additional markets planned.
“The local assembly of the WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV demonstrates our confidence in Malaysia’s manufacturing capability and long-term potential,” said Roslan Abdullah, Chief Operating Officer of GWM Malaysia. “It supports technology transfer, strengthens the local supply chain, and aligns with national priorities for New Energy growth.”
Local assembly may also contribute to improved parts support and long-term ownership confidence for Malaysian buyers.
Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza Named WEY G9 Ambassador
GWM Malaysia also announced Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza as the WEY G9 ambassador, citing her multi-generational appeal as a natural fit for the MPV’s family-oriented luxury positioning.
CarTok Editor’s Note:
Seven seats, real electric driving range for daily use, and the ability to travel long distance without charging anxiety — the WEY G9’s plug-in hybrid setup could be the sweet spot Malaysian families didn’t realise they were waiting for.
