GWM Wey G9 CKD off the production line, set to launch in Malaysia in early 2026

【PCauto】GWM Wey G9, after a year of preparation, has finally reached its actual launch phase. With the first batch of CKD vehicles rolling off the production line at EP Manufacturing (EPMB) in Melaka Pegoh, GWM has announced that the Wey G9 will become the first locally-assembled Chinese new energy MPV in Malaysia.

Although the official launch of the new car has been postponed from the end of 2025 to early 2026, the opening of pre-orders and a price below RM300,000 have sustained high market anticipation.

It is currently confirmed that the first batch of off-the-line versions is the short-wheelbase (SWB) model, which is referred to as Gaoshan 7 in the Chinese market.

Its positioning is evident from the body proportions and the distance between the sliding rear door and the wheel arch. The SWB model measures 5,050 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,900 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,085 mm, adopting a 2-2-3 seven-seat layout.

In contrast, the standard wheelbase version (Gaoshan 8) measures up to 5,280 mm, while the long wheelbase version (Gaoshan 9) reaches 5,410 mm, though the latter two are not currently planned for introduction in Malaysia.

Notably, the Thai market has already launched the SWB version, priced at 2,399,000 THB (approximately RM310,900), making its Malaysian pricing of "below RM300,000" highly competitive.

With Malaysia taking on the regional export role, the standard wheelbase version may still be added to the lineup in the future based on market demand.

The Wey G9 features the Hi4 plug-in hybrid system, making it one of the few luxury PHEV MPVs in the Malaysian market.

The front-mounted 1.5L turbocharged engine delivers an output of 150 PS and 240 Nm, combined with dual front and rear electric motors, delivering a total system output of 442 PS and 642 Nm of torque, driving all four wheels in an AWD configuration.

The manufacturer claims a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of just 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h, which exceeds the performance range of traditional luxury MPVs.

Equipped with a 44.2 kWh battery, it offers an NEDC-rated pure electric range of 170 km and a total range of up to 1,000 km. DC fast charging from 30% to 80% takes only 26 minutes, while AC 6.6 kW charging requires approximately 6.5 hours.

This powertrain thus combines performance with long-range efficiency, well-suited for long-distance inter-state and inter-provincial travel for consumers in Malaysia and Thailand.

Inside, the Malaysian version will feature China's latest interior design, “including” a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch central control screen, independent ventilated and massaging seats for the second row, “zero-gravity” mode, electrically adjustable third-row sliding seats, and a 12.5-liter dual-opening refrigerator (adjustable between 0–50°C), creating a luxurious and comfort-focused cabin experience.

Other amenities, such as dual sunroofs, 64-color ambient lighting, electric sliding side doors and tailgate, rear-seat entertainment screens, etc., further underscore its flagship status.

The safety features of the Thai version include a full ADAS suite, six airbags, 360-degree view imaging, automatic parking brakes, blind-spot collision prevention, rear cross-traffic warning and automatic braking, and door opening warnings.

Given GWM's reference to an NCAP five-star structural design and multi-layer battery protection, the Malaysian version is expected to maintain identical specifications.

According to GWM management, the launch of the Wey G9 CKD represents not merely a new product introduction but also lays the groundwork for future regional supply chain planning.

GWM Malaysia COO Roslan Abdullah emphasized the significance of localized production for talent development, supply chain enhancement, and brand competitiveness, while GWM management regards this as a key milestone in expanding into the broader ASEAN market.