SAIC’s IM Motors has officially rolled out its newest flagship SUV, the IM LS9, marking a major step forward in the company’s premium lineup. The large luxury SUV arrives in two versions priced at $46,600 and $50,800, positioning it as a high-tech competitor in China’s fast-moving EV and extended-range segment. As IM’s new halo product, the LS9 introduces the brand’s advanced “Stellar” Super Extended Range powertrain and the latest “Lingxi” Digital Chassis technology. SAIC has also confirmed that an even more performance-focused Hyper variant will debut during the first quarter of 2026.
On the outside, the LS9 debuts a new styling approach for IM. The front is defined by a continuous “star-ring” LED light bar, flanked by T-shaped lighting elements that give the SUV a futuristic identity. The smooth, closed grille emphasizes its electrified character, while chrome trim and a trapezoidal lower air intake add visual depth. Along the sides, a straight, clean shoulder line and distinctive pie-shaped alloy wheels help underline the LS9’s large and upscale proportions. Electric retractable side steps are fitted to improve passenger access. At the rear, the model adopts a minimalistic vertical design, complete with a wide horizontal taillight assembly, an integrated roof spoiler, and more chrome details. The LS9 is a substantial vehicle, measuring 5,279 mm long, 2,000 mm wide, and 1,806 mm high, riding on a 3,160 mm wheelbase. Beneath its bodywork lies the Lingxi Digital Chassis 3.0, featuring ultra-wide-angle four-wheel steering (up to 24 degrees) and a closed dual-chamber air suspension system offering 150 mm of travel.
Inside, IM carries over much of the design philosophy seen in the LS6. Dominating the dashboard is a massive 27.1-inch 5K MiniLED dual control display, paired with a separate 15.6-inch 3K MiniLED entertainment screen for the front passenger. The air vents are subtly integrated into the layers of the dashboard, maintaining a clean, modern look. The center console includes wireless charging, dual cupholders, and an open storage space underneath. Buyers can select either a half-spoke or full-spoke steering wheel, both equipped with sliding rotary controllers for intuitive operation. In the second row, the right-side seat can transition into a “zero-gravity” reclining mode for maximum comfort. IM also fits the LS9 with a built-in refrigerator capable of cooling or heating between -6°C and 50°C, alongside premium touches such as a B&O audio system, a cabin air-purification setup, and an optional outdoor adventure kit. For autonomous driving, the SUV incorporates a 520-line LiDAR sensor and the powerful Nvidia Thor computing chip.
Under the skin, the LS9 is powered by IM’s Stellar Super Extended Range powertrain, which pairs a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor and a 66 kWh battery pack. The system enables a 402 km pure EV range on the CLTC cycle, while total driving range reaches an impressive 1,508 km when using both fuel and electricity. IM Motors also notes that combined consumption stands at just 2.81 liters per 100 km, highlighting the SUV’s efficiency despite its large size.
With advanced technology, a bold new design, and long-distance capability, the IM LS9 arrives as a flagship aimed squarely at redefining luxury for China’s extended-range SUV market.