Li L9: Elevating the Benchmark for Smart SUV Excellence

Li L9: Elevating the Benchmark for Smart SUV

The SUV market is booming, and automakers are responding with innovative new models packed with technology, luxury and performance. Chinese electric vehicle startup Li Auto recently unveiled its flagship smart SUV, the Li L9. This feature-rich vehicle aims to set a new benchmark in the premium EV SUV segment.

But how does the Li L9 stack up against the competition? This article compares the Li L9 with segment leaders like the Tesla Model X, Mercedes-Benz EQC, and Audi e-tron across key categories to elevate your buying decision. We’ll analyze exterior and interior design, performance, range, driver-assistance and smart features, charging capabilities and more. Read on to see thoughtful insights on where the Li L9 excels and where rivals still have an edge.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Li L9 brings a distinct and modern style clearly aimed at distinguishing itself in the premium EV marketplace. It sports Li Auto’s signature full-width light strip spanning the width of the vehicle, paired with an illuminated 3D grille up front. Frameless doors add to the vehicle’s luxury appeal.

Li L9:

• Signature full-width front LED light strip creates modern, high-tech appeal
• Illuminated 3D grille and Li Auto badging provide recognizable brand styling
• Frameless doors enhance premium aesthetic
• Large 21-inch wheels make a bold styling statement

Tesla Model X:

• Iconic and recognizable smooth, aerodynamic shape
• Automatic rear Falcon Wing doors allow curbside entry to rear seats
• Available 22-inch Arachnid wheels for enhanced sporty look
• Overall futuristic styling aligns with Tesla brand image

Mercedes-Benz EQC:

• Traditional Mercedes styling adapted for electric era
• Large grille with illuminated Mercedes star logo
• EQ badging and blue accents signify electric powertrain
• Familiar appeal targeting Mercedes loyalists

Audi e-tron:

• Smooth, aerodynamic shape optimized for EV driving range
• Signature Audi Singleframe grille with horizontal slats
• Model-specific optional black exterior styling package
• Iconic Audi LED headlights and taillights

While styling preferences are subjective, the Li L9 brings fresh and modern styling to the premium EV SUV segment while rivals opt for familiar shapes or brand-signature looks. This could help the L9 stand out to buyers seeking a vehicle that makes a unique statement.

Interior Design and Comfort

Cabin design, premium materials, passenger space and comfort take high priority for luxury SUV buyers. Does the Li L9 interior pamper occupants appropriately for its premium positioning?

Li L9:

• Available Nappa leather seating throughout all three rows
• Open, spacious cabin enabled by flat battery pack underfloor
• Power adjustments for seats in first two rows
• Second row captain’s chairs with heating/cooling functions available
• Easy entry/exit access to third row with tipping second row

Tesla Model X:

• Vegan leather or premium upholstery options
• Panoramic windshield enhances outward visibility
• Power adjustments across all three rows
• Second row captain’s chairs standard
• Significant cargo flexibility due to electric architecture

Mercedes-Benz EQC

• Signature Mercedes comfort and refinement
• MB-Tex simulated leather or Nappa leather options
• Heated/ventilated front seats with massage function
• Premium ambient interior lighting schemes

Audi e-tron:

• Leather seating standard, with upgraded leather options
• Exceptional noise isolation for hushed interior
• Power seats standard in front two rows
• Heated/ventilated options available
• Familiar Audi design and layout

The Li L9 delivers well on interior refinement and flexibility needed to compete as a premium SUV. Rivals like the EQC and e-tron still lead for cabin noise isolation, while the Tesla Model X offers the most functional flexibility enabled by its battery architecture. But the L9 checks the essential boxes for luxury expectations.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

In the premium SUV segment, power and acceleration metrics offer bragging rights while balanced handling inspires driving confidence. With available torque-vectoring and adaptive air suspension, the Li L9 aims high here.

Performance numbers don’t always reflect real-world driving fun, but these specs are nonetheless attention-grabbing. The L9 nearly matches the ultra-fast Plaid version of the Model X in acceleration, while beating Mercedes and Audi entrants. Its top end exceeds all competitors too. Clearly Li Auto aims to shatter expectations of what a Chinese EV startup can deliver performance-wise.

Adaptive air suspension should also give the L9 a smooth and comfortable ride across varied terrain. And the available torque-vectoring system – which brakes individual wheels automatically to “steer” the vehicle – sharpens handling responsiveness. Both features aim to strike a winning balance of performance, comfort and confidence for drivers.

Range and Charging Capabilities

Range anxiety still plays a major role in EV purchase decisions. The L9’s large 140 kWh battery aims to ease worries here too.

Li L9

• 350 miles of range on full charge (estimated)
• 150 kW fast charging for 200+ miles of range in 30 minutes

Tesla Model X

• 371 / 333 miles EPA range
• 250 kW proprietary Supercharging for up to 200 miles in 15 minutes

Mercedes-Benz EQC

• 259 miles WLTP range
• 110 kW fast charging

Audi e-tron

• 222 mile EPA range (updated 2023 model)
• 150 kW fast charging

The L9’s estimated 350 mile range surpasses all competitors aside from the long-range Model X. However many factors impact range in the real world. And Tesla’s vast proprietary fast charging network provides an experience that others cannot match yet. Still, on paper the numbers show strong EV capability.

Driver Assistance and Self-Driving Tech

Advanced driver assistance systems are no longer optional – they’re expected. How does Li Auto’s first crack at advanced tech compare?

Li L9

• Li AD Max hardware suite
• 30+ driver assistance features
• Highway Pilot full self-driving capability (feature pending final validation)
• Over-the-air update capability

Tesla Autopilot / FSD

• Industry-leading self-driving ecosystem
• Constant over-the-air updates with beta testing program
• Vast volumes of real-world testing data

Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot

• Level 3 conditional automation hardware capability
• Geofenced high-definition map integration
• System launching in Germany in 2024

Audi Traffic Jam Pilot

• Level 3 traffic jam automation launching in 2023
• Limited to under 40 mph

The Li L9 debuts the automaker’s new AD Max hardware promising full self-driving capability. Li Auto claims the Highway Pilot feature can autonomously change lanes, pass other vehicles, adjust speed and perform point-to-point navigation. Yet the tech remains unproven versus industry vet Tesla. While Li Auto is eager and ambitious here, only extensive real-world validation can confirm if its self-driving tech is truly competitive.

Smart Tech, Connectivity and User Experience

Seamlessly integrating mobile tech into the automotive realm is no easy task. How smart is the “smart SUV” branding behind the Li L9 name?

Li L9

• Automaker OS powered by Snapdragon cockpit platform
• 27” second row retractable screen for entertainment
• 18-speaker Dynaudio sound system
• Proprietary NOA voice assistant

Tesla

• Industry-leading touchscreen UI and software ecosystem
• Integrated games, streaming services and web browser access
• Constant over-the-air updates

Mercedes-Benz

• MBUX intuitive multimedia interface
• “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant with natural speech
• Integrated with Mercedes me connect ecosystem

Audi

• Latest generation MMI touch infotainment
• 10.1” central touchscreen with haptic feedback
• Integrated Amazon Alexa capability

The Li L9 brings generous screens and entertainment ability, paired with a proprietary voice assistant to enhance the user experience. But it lacks proven software ecosystemsseen from more established luxury makes. While competitive on hardware, real-world experience testing will reveal if Li Auto’s smart UI lives up to the promise.

Key Specs and Pricing Comparison

Pricing shows the well-equipped L9 undercutting the Model X slightly, while significantly cheaper than the European competitors. Yet it packs a far larger battery, more power and range than alternatives at its price level. For buyers prioritizing value, the L9 stacks up well.

Verdict: A Formidable Newcomer to the Segment

The Li L9 enters an intensely competitive arena dominated by iconic EV makes. Yet it arrives with remarkable specifications and aggressive pricing to match up with far more established rivals. In many regards on paper, the L9 sets a new benchmark for premium electric SUVs.

Of course some factors like real-world validation of self-driving tech remain open questions for Li Auto. And other challenger electric automakers boast similar motivation to leapfrog industry leaders. Still, as the brand’s first SUV the Li L9 makes a compelling case to elevate expectations of Chinese EV startups in the luxury sphere.

For buyers seeking the combination of smart luxury and high performance EV driving encased in a modern and tech-forward package, the Li L9 warrants a hard look. The interface and driver assistance systems may still carry a learning curve as first-generation technology. Yet if one prioritizes sheer metrics like battery capacity, power and acceleration, range, and interior passenger space, the Li L9 aims to surpass rivals on both absolute terms and value for money.

This Chinese EV newcomer arrives hungry, innovative and ambitious – with theModel L9 serving as the brand’s flagship statement to the industry. Try it for yourself when deliveries begin in mid-2023 to see if it achieves the full vision.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Li L9 Smart SUV

What autonomous driving features does the Li L9 have?

The Li L9 comes equipped with Li AD Max, the automaker’s latest autonomous driving hardware suite. It supports 30+ advanced driver assistance features, plus the Highway Pilot full self-driving mode for navigation between on/off ramps on highways. However Highway Pilot remains pending final validation before full release.

What is the charging time for the Li L9?

Using 150 kW fast charging, Li Auto estimates the L9 battery can charge from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes. That equates to over 200 miles of added range in a very quick charging session. The L9 will support even faster charging rates in the future as infrastructure and battery chemistry evolves.

Does the L9 qualify for electric vehicle tax credits?

Yes, the qualifying price and Chinese manufacturing of the Li L9 allows it to benefit from the new US Inflation Reduction Act’s EV tax credits. Depending on the exact trim and options, buyers can unlock at least $7,500 in federal tax credits, more than any US or European rivals. State and local incentives may provide thousands in additional savings.

When can I experience or test drive the Li L9?

Li Auto plans to launch the Li L9 in its home China market first in mid-2023. Deliveries to select European markets are expected to follow later in 2023. The L9 is slated to reach the North America market in 2024 after localized manufacturing adjustments, when customers can schedule test drives. Li Auto operates over 300 retail stores across China for public interaction until then.

Does the L9 feature smartphone app connectivity?

Yes, Li Auto offers a mobile app that pairs with the L9. Owners can check battery status, charging control, remote commands like horn/lights/door locks, trip planning with waypoints mapped to the vehicle navigation, and more. App connectivity allows owners to preheat or cool the L9 cabin and seats while it remains plugged in before departure.

How much cargo space does the L9 have?

Combined behind both rear rows, Li Auto lists 98 cubic feet of cargo space, meeting large 3-row SUV expectations. The absence of a traditional engine bay allows greater storage flexibility too, with a 150 liter front trunk adding room. Overall the interior offers ample passenger room with flexibility for people and gear.