Volkswagen's ID. Era 9X is a bold statement in the Chinese SUV market, offering a unique blend of technology and design that sets it apart from its competitors. This six-seater SUV is a rolling screen fest, with a dual 15.6-inch screen and a 21.4-inch rear display that folds down from the ceiling, creating an immersive experience for passengers. But this isn't just about the screens; it's about the fusion of German aesthetics and Eastern charm, a concept that Ralf Brandstätter, Volkswagen's boss in China, emphasizes. He notes that Chinese buyers prefer AI-first, connected vehicles with seamless voice control and smart cockpits, a stark contrast to the analog switchgear that Europeans long for.
The ID. Era 9X is a testament to this shift in preference. With very few traditional controls and a dashboard dominated by screens, it's a far cry from the old-school VW models. The interior is a haven of ambient lighting, spanning 42 feet (12.8 meters) and extending onto the ceiling, creating a dramatic and modern atmosphere. This is an electric vehicle, but not just any EV; it's Volkswagen's first to feature a range-extending gasoline engine, a strategic move to cater to Chinese consumers.
The SUV is a behemoth, measuring 205 inches (5207 mm) long, 78.6 inches (1997 mm) wide, and 71.2 inches (1810 mm) tall. It comes in rear- and all-wheel-drive flavors with single- and dual-motor setups, respectively, and is one of the heaviest models VW has ever developed, with the dual-motor variant weighing up to 5,952 pounds (2,700 kilograms). The screen-filled interior is a fusion of German and Eastern design, with fresh colors like Fairy Green and Desert Gold.
Motor1's Take: The ID. Era 9X is a significant step for Volkswagen in China, marking a departure from the global model approach and a focus on a truly China-centric product. It's the first of more than 20 New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) coming to the local market by 2027, where NEVs refer to purely electric and plug-in hybrid models. However, the success of this product offensive remains to be seen, given the fierce competition in the Chinese market. Early signs show that Audi's new AUDI brand is already struggling, less than a year after launching, without the iconic Four Rings.
What do you think about Volkswagen's ID. Era 9X? Do you think it will be a success in the Chinese market? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
